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2026 Bishop Mule Days Coming Soon

2026 Bishop Mule Days Coming Soon

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20 Mule Team at the Bishop Mule Days Parade

Although Memorial Day is celebrated in a variety of ways across the country, the Eastern Sierra town of Bishop marks this traditional beginning of summer with Bishop Mule Days (muledays.org). This annual event, which promotes the heritage, legacy and talents of mules, draws mule teams and spectators from across the west, and offers a week filled with fun, festivities and good old fashioned western entertainment. Although the 2026 event technically runs from May 19 to May 24, the highlights of the festivities are the weekend parade and arena events.

Everyone Loves a Parade

The Bishop Mule Days Parade, which is billed as the world’s longest non-motorized parade, is definitely a crowd favorite. The 2026 parade begins at 10 AM on Saturday May 23 at South and Main Streets, and travels north on Main Street. This festive event features mule teams, horses, wagons, bands and lots of mules with costumed riders. You never know quite what you’ll see, as the popular costume contest has a different theme every year.

Accessible parking for the parade is available in front of the Bishop Dog Park, but it’s best to ask the officer at the Main Street road block to direct you to other accessible parking areas. The good news is that the town is pretty flat, so it’s easy to navigate in a wheelchair. The not so good news is that the parade draws a huge crowd, so accessible parking can be difficult to find. The best plan of action is to arrive early for first crack at the accessible parking spots, then have a leisurely breakfast and stake out a place to watch the parade. It’s an extremely popular event, and many locals even save their spots with chairs as early as Friday afternoon.

The bulk of the other events take place at the Tri-County Fairgrounds over the next two days. Accessible parking is available in the fairgrounds parking lot, and a paved level pathway leads from the parking area, around the mule barns to the grandstand. Accessible seating for up to two people is available in Box 1 in the grandstand, and for groups of three or more in the first rows of Sections A and E. It’s best to call (760) 872-4263 and order your tickets as far in advance as possible. Additionally, it’s extremely important to specify that you need accessible seating when you place your order.

The arena events resemble something akin to a mule rodeo, where the packers show off their skills. The whole event is steeped in tradition, as mule packers are a fixture in the Sierras for back country camping, hunting and rescue operations. There are no money prizes for the winners, but the bragging rights are huge.

The Main Events

A variety of different competitions are held in the arena, but here’s a sampling of some of the events you can expect to see.

Opening Ceremony of the Mule Days Rodeo

Timed Packers Choice

Packers lead their mule strings over and around their choice of obstacles in this timed event. Obstacles range from bridges, gates, water hazards and logs. Packers earn one point for each obstacle they navigate successfully.

Coon Jumping

In this event, handlers encourage their mules to jump over a bar from a standstill. The bar is raised until there is one mule left. The contest takes its name from the practice of jumping mules over fences during coon hunts. There’s always a laugh or two during this contest as some mules are very hesitant to jump.

Individual Packing

A variety of objects, including ice chests, washtubs, pots and pans are laid out on the ground. Packers then pack everything on their two mules, cover the load with a tarp, and attempt to race to the finish line without losing anything.

Run, Ride and Lead

In this fast-paced event packers run to their mules which are located on the opposite side of the arena. Next they ride their mules back to the start, then lead the animals back across the arena. In the end, more than one packer usually ends up on the ground.

Team Pack Scramble

Start of the Team Pack Scramble

One of the highlights of the arena events is the Team Pack Scramble. Packers lead their mule strings into the arena, then unpack and unharness the animals. Cowboys then fire blank shots into the air to disperse the animals. Packers must round up their animals, repack them, assemble their strings, then lead them by horseback out of the arena for a lap around the parking lot. A real crowd pleaser!

Make Plans to Attend!

Although distinctly different from a traditional rodeo, Bishop Mule Days is a fun, family-friendly way to celebrate Memorial Day. Afternoon and evening arena events are held on Saturday and Sunday, and you can get a single ticket or a buy an all-event pass. Get your tickets early though, as this popular event sells out quickly. Don’t miss the 2026 celebration – a tradition in the Eastern Sierras.

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Walk Down Memory Lane at These Two Neon Sign Museums

Walk Down Memory Lane at These Two Neon Sign Museums

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The “Boneyard” at the Las Vegas Neon Museum

Once a standard feature in every downtown business district, neon signs reached their peak in the US from the 1930s to the 1950s. Although you can spot some “neon-esque” copycats today, most modern incarnations use energy-efficient LED lights to mimic the effects of the original light shows. Even though neon technology is technically a thing of the past, you can still get a feel for the history and the glitz of this gaudy signage at two US neon sign museums. One is located at the ground zero capital of gaudy signage, while the other is located in a sleepy little town on the Columbia River. Both are worth a visit, as you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of this artistic vintage signage.

A Sin City Favorite

Las Vegas Neon Museum Home at the Former La Concha Hotel

First stop on this tour of neon sign museums is at the granddaddy of gaud — Las Vegas, Nevada. Founded in 2012, The Neon Museum www.neonmuseum.org offers a fun and fanciful look at Las Vegas’ past.

Located off The Strip in the lobby of the former La Concha Motel, the Neon Museum is easy to find. The former aquatic-themed hotel was built in 1961 and was designed to resemble a shell by architect Paul Revere Williams. It was originally located on the strip but it was moved to its present location in 2012, when the museum opened. Today it houses the museum office and gift shop; and even though the building is the epitome of retro, there’s a level entry, automatic doors and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair inside.

Guided tours are offered of the adjacent boneyard, which has an impressive collection of retired neon signs. There is level access throughout the hard-packed dirt paths through the boneyard, with benches to sit along the route. The tour includes tid-bits of Las Vegas history associated with select neon signs.

Favorite neon signs include the Moulin Rouge, the El Cortez and Lady Luck, which was featured in Vegas Vacation. Then there’s the animated happy shirt sign from Steiner’s Cleaners, and the favorite Ugly Duckling sign from a defunct car dealership. The oldest sign in the boneyard, which dates back to the 1930s, is from the Green Shack Restaurant on Fremont Street; while one of the most unusual signs was fashioned to resemble a yucca plant, for a hotel of the same name. All in all, it’s an informational, insightful and colorful tour.

And for an added burst of neon color, plan to to cruise the Las Vegas Boulevard Scenic Byway (neonmuseum.org/las-vegas-boulevard-scenic-byway-project/) to see more restored neon signs after your visit.

The La Concha Neon Sign in the Boneyard at the Las Vegas Neon Museum

An Oregon Up-And-Comer

 National Neon Museum

Over in The Dalles, Oregon, the National Neon Museum www.nationalneonsignmuseum.org, which opened in 2019, presents a comprehensive history of neon signage. Unlike the open-air Las Vegas museum, this site is located entirely inside, in the 1910 Elks Temple building. There’s parallel parking on the street, and an accessible ramped entrance around the corner on Court Street. Inside there’s good access to the first floor, with accessible restrooms near the gallery.

The visit begins with a short movie about the art on neon sign construction. There’s level access to the theater and plenty of room for wheelchairs in the front. After the film, visitors are taken on a docent-led guided tour, and then given time to explore the museum on their own.

Neon Exhibit at the National Neon Museum

The galleries begin with a mix of when science meets art, with the invention on neon lighting by Ceorges Claude. This French inventor introduced neon lighting at the Paris Motor Show in 1910. And by the 1920s this art form had migrated over to the US, and it began to increase in popularity after the Great Depression. There are several examples of early neon signage, including the Regal Boot from a Boston sign, and a good overview of the history and the process of creating these artworks.

There’s also a large gallery that houses founder David Benko’s collection of neon signage, as well as displays of different sign companies . The upstairs gallery, which is only accessible by stairs, includes storefronts filled with neon signage. From the ice cream parlor and BBQ chicken joint, to the jeweler and a TV store, it’s a true blast from the past.

And looking to the future, Benko plans to add the restored Jantzen Beach Carousel in 2028. And when that addition is made, the entire upstairs section will also be accessible.

More Neon Exhibits at the National Neon Museum
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Wheelchair-Accessible Mesa Verde National Park

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Wheelchair-Accessible Mesa Verde National Park

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Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde National Park

Although Mesa Verde is now a national park, it was once home to the Ancestral Pueblo people. Today this Southwestern Colorado area boasts the remains of intricately crafted cliff dwellings, pueblos and pithouses that date back to 600 AD. And although there are some access obstacles, it’s still possible for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to explore portions of the ancient ruins. So here’s the scoop on how to plan a wheelchair-accessible Mesa Verde National Park (www.nps.gov/meve) visit.

Explore Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center

The best place to begin your visit is at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center, which is located near the park entrance. There’s accessible parking with ramp access up to the visitor center, and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair around the interpretive exhibits, ranger information desk, and book store inside. The building also houses a research center, where visitors can catch a glance at the archaeologists at work through wheelchair-height observation windows. Top it off with a loaner wheelchair, accessible restrooms and an accessible picnic table with a view, and you have everything you need.

After you finish exploring the visitor center, grab a map and follow Mesa Top Ruins Road towards the high point in the park — Park Point. This scenic route winds across the mesa and offers several excellent photo stops along the way; but the most accessible choice is Montezuma Valley Overlook. Not only does this stop offer a superb valley view, but it also has an accessible picnic table and vault toilet.

Another must see are the Far View Sites, which are located a few miles south of Far View Lodge. At one time this area housed as many as 50 villages, but today the pueblo-style ruins includes Far View House, four other villages and a dry reservoir. Unfortunately, uneven terrain hampers wheelchair access to all of the ruins, but Far View House is doable for most folks.

You can also get a good view of Pipe Shrine House in the distance from the far corner of the site. Some slow walkers may also be able to access the entire 3/4-mile dirt loop trail that begins at the far corner of this site. The trail is fairly level, but it has some gravel, rocks and uneven spots along the way.

Visit Chapin Mesa Headquarters

Next up on your wheelchair-accessible Mesa Verde visit is Chapin Mesa Headquarters. From the Far View Sites, continue along Chapin Mesa Road and turn right at the stop sign. Chapin Mesa Headquarters has a large variety of services, including a museum, restrooms, ranger information, gift shops, a restaurant, a picnic area and some great views. The most convenient accessible parking is located in the main parking lot, across the street from the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.

From the parking lot, there’s an accessible pathway to the front door of the museum, which is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the National Park Service. And thanks to a multi-year renovation project, there’s wheelchair-access to the lobby, the bookstore, the auditorium and the galleries. Not only did the renovation provide improve physical access, but the historic structure was also preserved during the process.

Formerly the exhibits in this museum focused on the story of the park entirely from a 20th century archeological perspective. The new exhibits, which were designed in collaboration with the Colorado Museum of Natural History, offer an added perspective from the Native communities, who consider Mesa Verde a sacred place. It’s an excellent museum, and a must-see on any visit.

Save some time for a glance at Spruce Tree House, the third-largest cliff dwelling in the park. Although it’s not accessible to wheelchair-users and slow walkers, you can still get a good view of it from the back deck of the Chief Ranger’s Office. There’s a wheelchair-accessible pathway from the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum, and plenty of room for large wheelchairs and scooters on the deck. As an added bonus, occasional ranger programs are also held there.

Drive the Mesa Top Loop

Sun Temple at Mesa Verde National Park

Although there are two scenic mesa drives, the Mesa Top Loop is the the best choice for a wheelchair-accessible Mesa Verde visit. This scenic six-mile drive features a variety of archeological sites grouped in chronological order, and offers a good representation of the variety of housing styles used by the Ancestral Pueblo people.

The first stop along the drive is the Pithouse site, which features one of the oldest permanent structures on the mesa. There’s a level pathway out to a covered structure which protects the excavated pithouses. These semi-subterranean structures, which date back to 600 AD, took advantage of the earth’s natural insulation.

The Pithouses & Pueblos site, which dates back to 700 AD to 950 AD is also a recommended stop. A short .2-mile loop trail leads out to the ruins, which includes standard pithouses as well as masonry structures. There’s level access to both structures, with plenty of room for wheelchairs inside. This stop offers a good overview of how the shelter styles evolved over a few hundred years.

The Mesa Top Sites, which date back to 900 AD are just up the road. A .1-mile trail leads out to the ruins, which was home to three different villages  that were were built on top of one another. The three circular towers, which are the most intact features, were part of the last village built on the site in 1075 AD.

Make a quick stop at Sun Temple, and follow the paved path to the ruins, but don’t miss Cliff Palace View, near the end of the drive. There’s a paved path out to a lowered viewing scope, which offers an excellent view of Cliff Palace in the distance. And if you can’t manage the short walk, there’s also a good view of the cliff dwelling from the parking area.

Spend the Night

A great way to top off a wheelchair-accessible Mesa Verde visit is to spend the night in the park. Of course you can always camp out at Morefield Campground, but if you’d prefer a few more creature comforts, then Far View Lodge (www.visitmesaverde.com) is the perfect choice. Located about a mile north of the Far View Sites, this 150-room property features good wheelchair access and great views of the surrounding countryside.

There’s accessible parking near the main lodge building, with level access to the lobby. From there is just a short drive to accessible room 159. The room includes a threshold ramp, wide doorways, a lowered clothing rod and good pathway access. Decorated in a decidedly western theme, it’s furnished with a 22-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, a chest of drawers, a desk and a refrigerator.

The spacious bathroom is equipped with a three-foot-square transfer-type shower with a fold-down shower bench, grab bars and a handheld showerhead. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and there is a roll-under sink just outside the bathroom. The room is very nicely done, and they even remembered to lower the towel bars.

On of the best features of this room is the private balcony, which offers level access and plenty of room for a wheelchair. Even if it’s too cold to sit outside, you can still enjoy the view from the large picture window. And since there’s no television in the room, you can occupy your time by star gazing and enjoying all that Mother Nature has to offer — and that’s reason enough make Far View Lodge your home base in Mesa Verde National Park.

Wheelchair-Accessible Mesa Verde National Park

Room 159 at Far View Lodge

More Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Ideas

More Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Ideas
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Enjoy These Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Railroads

Enjoy These Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Railroads

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Although most folks associate national parks with hiking, camping and outdoor activities, a few of our nation’s natural showplaces also have active railroads running through or near them. Be it a short train excursion in a national park or a longer rail journey to get there, riding the rails is a fun and accessible option for all visitors. So check out these wheelchair-accessible national park railroads on your next visit to these popular sites.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon Railway on its Way to the Grand Canyon

emerginghorizons.com/grand-canyon-without-a-car
The Grand Canyon Railway departs from Williams and travels north to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Along the way this historic train passes through a Ponderosa Pine forest before it drops down to an open prairie, and then climbs back up to the Pinyon Pine forest near the South Rim. There are six classes of service, with Pullman, Coach and First Class being the most accessible, All of the cars can be accessed by a portable lift, and they are outfitted with wheelchair-tie downs and nearby companion seats. Passengers can do this excursion as a day trip, or opt to spend a night or two on the South Rim before returning to Williams. And if you’d like a longer rail journey, Amtrak’s Southwest Chief offers service to Flagstaff, with transfers available to Williams.

Yosemite National Park

 

Amtrak / Yarts Transfer Bus in Yosemite Valley

emerginghorizons.com/a-wheelchair-accessible-yosemite-rail-excursion/
If you’d like to ride the rails to Yosemite National Park, then hop aboard Amtrak’s Gold Runner. This route travels from Northern California and Southern California to the Merced Amtrak Station. From there passengers are transferred to an Amtrak Connection bus (operated by YARTS) for the rest of the journey to Yosemite National Park. All Amtrak trains feature lift boarding and have wheelchair tie-downs abord; and although all YARTS busses are accessible, it’s important to note your access needs on your Amtrak reservation. And once you get to Yosemite National Park it’s easy to get around, as the free shuttle stops at all of the popular attractions in Yosemite Valley. And all the park shuttles are wheelchair-accessible.

Cuyahoga National Park

 

Boarding the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway Train

emerginghorizons.com/plan-a-wheelchair-accessible-reunion-at-cuyahoga-valley-national-park/
Next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible national park railroads is the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway. This Northeastern Ohio scenic railway dates back to the 1800s, and today it operates excursions through Cuyahoga National Park. The 3.5-hour excursion begins in the Rockside Station and passes south along the Cuyahoga River through Brecksville, the Boston Store Visitor Center and Peninsula Depot, before it winds its way down to the Akron Northside Station. After a short stop, it then returns north to the Rockside Station. Access on board is great, with lift access to the accessible car which has 60 seats, all of which can be flipped up to accommodate wheelchair-users. It’s a scenic excursion through the national park, with plenty of opportunity for wildlife viewing, including catching a glance or two at the resident bald eagles.

Glacier National Park

 

                                                  Belton Depot in West Glacier

Glacier National Park is another national park that you can get to without a car. Amtrak’s Empire Builder runs from Chicago to Spokane, with connections to Portland and Seattle. There is lift access to the train, with wheelchair-seating on board. The train stops at both West Glacier and East Glacier; and wheelchair-accessible shuttle transportation is available at both stops to connect to select lodges. And after you are settled in, you can use the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle or sign up for Red Bus tour to explore the park.

Mount Rainier National Park

 

View from the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad

emerginghorizons.com/all-aboard-the-mt-rainier-scenic-railroad/
Although the namesake Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad does not go into the national park, it’s still worthy of a mention here because of the scenery and iconic Mount Rainier views. The train departs from Elbe, which is about 15 minutes from the Nisqually Entrance of the national park. This daily excursion train features historic cars which are pulled by a Polson Logging No. 70 steam locomotive. That said, historic does not mean inaccessible, as a manual wheelchair lift is available at the station. Two excursions are available on the railway, both of which travel through the countryside, as attendants share the history of the area and points of interest along the way. And if the weather cooperates and the clouds clear, you’ll also be treated to an impressive Mount Rainier view.

Denali National Park

 

Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star

emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-denali-national-park/
Last but certainly not least on our list of wheelchair-accessible national park railroads is the Denali Star up in Alaska. Operated by Alaska Railroad during the summer months, this line runs from Anchorage and Fairbanks to Denali National Park. All stations as well as the GoldStar dome cars are wheelchair-accessible. It’s a great way to get to this remote park, and most cruise lines also offer it as a post-cruise excursion. And you just can’t beat the scenery along the way. It’s a great prelude to a Denali National Park visit.

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Explore Crater Lake National Park in a Wheelchair

Explore Crater Lake National Park in a Wheelchair

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View from the Watchman Overlook

Located at 7,100 feet along Southern Oregon’s Cascade Crest, Crater Lake was created over 7,700 years ago after a massive eruption of Mount Mazama. The resulting caldera filled with melted snow and rainwater, and subsequently the 1943-foot-deep lake took on a deep blue — if not somewhat ethereal — hue. Add in the surrounding cliffs that are nearly 2,000-feet high, two picturesque islands, and an old growth forest, and you have all the ingredients for a scenic national park experience. And although the lake itself isn’t wheelchair-accessible, there are many other areas in Crater Lake National Park (www.nps.gov/crla) that wheelchair-users and slow walkers can enjoy.

The Rim Drive

View from the Phantom Ship Overlook

A good way to enjoy Crater Lake National Park is to take the 31-mile Rim Drive that circles the caldera. For the best windshield views take the drive in a counterclockwise direction starting on West Rim Drive. There are a number of overlooks and pullouts along the drive, but the windshield views are also spectacular.

Be sure and stop at Watchman Overlook, which offers an excellent view of Wizard Island. There’s accessible parking near the accessible vault toilet, with curb-cut access to a sidewalk over to the lower overlook. The upper overlook is only accessible by stairs or a steep path, but don’t fret if you can’t make it to the top, as you’ll catch some of the best views from the road. Cloudcap Overlook and Phantom Ship Overlook also offer some great windshield views of the lake. And don’t miss Vidae Falls on the last section of East Rim Drive, as this 100-foot waterfall can be easily seen from the pullout.

If you’d like to leave the driving to someone else, Crater Lake Trolley (craterlaketrolley.net) offers an accessible tour which travels along Rim Drive and stops at five to seven viewpoints. This two-hour tour departs from Rim Village, and the lift-equipped trolley has space for one wheelchair. At least 24-hours advance notice is required for wheelchair accessibility (541-882-1896). It should be noted that wheelchairs must be no wider than 28-inches and have a combined weight limit of no more than 400 pounds.

Explore the Forest

The Godfrey Glen Trail

Although the lake is the crown jewel of the park, the surrounding forest also offers some impressive vistas. To that end, one of the most accessible trails in the park– the Godfrey Glen Trail — is located near the south park entrance, on Munson Valley Road between Mazama Village and Park Headquarters.

This hard-packed dirt trail passes through an old growth hemlock and fir forest; and although there are some ruts and roots along the way, most are easy to dodge. The biggest obstacle along this 1.1-mile loop is the steep grade at the halfway point. Best bet it to travel in a clockwise direction, and double back when it gets too steep. Even if you can’t complete the whole trail, you’ll still get some nice canyon views along the way.

Pinnacles Road Trails

View from the First Overlook on the Pinnacles Trail

Although the Rim Drive is a must-do on any Crater Lake National Park visit, save some time to hop off-the-beaten-path and explore two accessible trails off of Pinnacles Road. Located on the south side of the lake, this seven-mile road begins near Phantom Ship Overlook, and runs out to Pinnacles Overlook, near the southeastern border of the park. The road and the overlook are named for the spire-like pumice formations that dot this river valley. Accessible parking is located next to the Pinnacles Trail, which offers a closer look at these unusual formations, that were created when hot volcanic gases shot up through the ash.

The Pinnacles Trail passes by several overlooks that offer good views of the formations. The hard-packed dirt trail is covered in crushed rock, and although it’s not entirely level, the undulations are doable for most wheelchair-users. Even if you can’t manage the whole half-mile hike to the park boundary, at least take the level 250-foot walk out to the first overlook. You won’t be disappointed.

The Plaikni Falls Trail, which is located near the beginning of Pinnacles Road is also worth a stop. Accessible parking is located near this trail that winds through an old growth forest to the base of the falls. That said, the last quarter-mile is extremely steep, and probably not doable for most wheelchair-users and slow walkers. On the other hand, the stroll through the forest is fairly level, and there are numerous wheelchair turn-outs and benches located along the way.

And although Pinnacles Road makes a nice outing, be forewarned that there are no accessible toilets at either trailhead. Best bet is to plan ahead and make a rest stop at White Bark Pine Picnic Area or the Crater Peak Trail Picnic Area before hitting the trails.

Rim Village

Sunrise on the Back Terrace at Crater Lake Lodge

Last, but certainly not least, save some time to enjoy the rim view on foot on the accessible section of the Rim Village Promenade. This level trail runs alongside the rim from the Rim Village Café and Gift Shop to the back terrace of Crater Lake Lodge. Accessible parking is located near the gift shop, with paved access to the trail behind the gift shop. When you get to the rim, make a right and continue along .3-miles until you hit the lodge.

Interpretive plaques are located along the way, and it’s the perfect spot for a selfie or two, as the views are grand. The trail is mostly paved, and undulating, with a slight change in elevation just past Kiser Studio. Still, most manual wheelchair-users can manage the grade with a little assistance. Alternatively, there’s ramp access down to the trail from the back terrace at Crater Lake Lodge. Either way, the views at both ends of the trail are equally impressive. Alternatively, if you don’t feel like hiking, then just sit and enjoy the lake view from the terrace. And, if you’d like to spend the night at the lodge, they do have a wheelchair-accessible room. (emerginghorizons.com/spend-the-night-at-wheelchair-accessible-crater-lake-lodge/). So pack your bags, and head to Crater Lake – it’s a great accessible destination.

More Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Ideas

More Wheelchair-Accessible National Park Ideas
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glacier-3

Wheelchair-Accessible Glacier National Park Without a Car

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In most cases a national park visit requires a vehicle, which can add extra time and expense to a fly-drive itinerary. Factor accessibility into the equation and it becomes even more complicated, as adapted rental vans are sometimes not readily available at gateway airports.

So what’s a traveler to do? Well if Glacier National Park (www.emerginghorizons.com/glacier-national-park) is on your bucket list, it’s now possible to enjoy a seamless accessible national park visit without a car, van, or even an airplane. Thanks to accessible rail connections, as well as a local network of accessible transportation providers, wheelchair-users and slow walkers can now get to, get around and get out and enjoy Glacier National Park without a car.

All Aboard

The first step to visiting Glacier National Park without a car is finding accessible transportation. To that end, wheelchair-accessible rail service is available to Glacier National Park on Amtrak’s Empire Builder train that runs from Chicago to Spokane. The train stops in West Glacier and East Glacier, and also connects to Portland and Seattle from Spokane. The Empire Builder train features an on-board lift, but station lifts are also available at both Glacier park stations.

The east-bound train departs Seattle in the late afternoon and rolls into West Glacier the next morning. The west bound journey is considerably longer — it takes almost 30 hours to reach East Glacier from Chicago. And although the West Glacier station is open year-round, the East Glacier station is closed during the winter months.

Accessible shuttle service is available at both stations to select park lodges. On the west side, Xanterra operates an accessible shuttle to and from Lake McDonald Lodge and the Village Inn at Apgar (both of which have accessible rooms). For more information or to make shuttle reservations, call (855) 733-4522. The East Glacier Train Depot is conveniently located across the street from Glacier Park Lodge; however accessible transfers are available to lodge guests with 24-hours notice. This lodge also has wheelchair-accessible rooms. For more information, contact Pursuit at (844) 868-7474.

Getting Around Glacier

Getting around Glacier National Park without a car is fairly easy too, thanks to a number of accessible shuttles and tours. The National Park Service operates the  Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle on both the east and west sides of the park. The wheelchair-accessible shuttles depart from Apgar Visitor Center and Lake McDonald Lodge on the west side and the St. Mary Visitor Center and the Rising Sun Picnic Area on the east side. It only operates during the summer months. Advance tickets are required for the shuttle, and they can be purchased at www.recreation.gov. 

It’s just a short walk to the shuttle stop at Apgar Visitor Center from the Village Inn at Apgar; and the East Side Shuttle connects Glacier Park Lodge guests with the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle at the St. Mary Visitor Center. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available with 24 hours notice on the East Side Shuttle (844-868-7474).

Take a Tour

Accessible Glacier Red Bus Tour vehicle

Although the historic Red Buses of Glacier National Park are not wheelchair-accessible, Xanterra Parks also has two wheelchair-accessible vehicles in their fleet. These lift-equipped vehicles have two-wheelchair spaces with tie-downs, and can accommodate a total of 14 passengers.

The accessible tours generally follow the same itinerary as the standard tours; however they tend to spend more time at the accessible stops, such as the Trail of the Cedars and Logan Pass. The western tours depart from the Apgar Visitor Center and Lake McDonald Lodge, and the eastern tours depart from the St, Mary Visitor Center. For more information, visit www.glaciernationalparklodges.com, call (855-733-4522 or e-mail redbustours@xanterra.com.  Remember to book early though, as these popular tours sell out quickly.

Additionally, Glacier Sun Tours also offers tours of the west and east sides of Glacier National Park in air-conditioned vehicles during the summer months. The tours depart from Apgar Visitor Center and St. Mary Visitor Center. Tour guides are lifetime residents of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, and they offer visitors a good overview of the natural history of the park, and also integrate their own tribal history and culture into the interpretation. Advance reservations are required, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available upon request. For more information on Glacier Sun Tours offerings, visit www.suntours.co/.

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Ride the Rails on the Grand Canyon Railway

Ride the Rails on the Grand Canyon Railway

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The Grand Canyon is definitely a must-see on the life bucket list. Most people arrive at this popular national park by car, as there’s not exactly an international airport on the rim. That said, there’s an alternative way to get to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon – ride the rails on the Grand Canyon Railway (www.thetrain.com)). And not only is this journey scenic, it’s also wheelchair-accessible. So check out this fun excursion on your next Arizona visit.

The Historic Williams Depot

This scenic rail excursion begins at the Williams Depot; and despite the historic nature of the building, there’s good wheelchair access to all areas. The Fray Marcos Hotel — which opened to the public in 1908 — once occupied the left portion of the depot. Today most vestiges of this 43-room Harvey House are gone;, however there are some vintage photos in the former lobby which is located next to the gift shop.

And while you’re at the depot, there’s also a little entertainment before boarding the train. The local marshal and the nefarious Cataract Creek Gang stage a wild west shootout before the train departs. There is level access to the show area, and wheelchair-accessible seating is available in front of the bleachers or at nearby tables. Then after the shootout, everyone heads over to the train.

Cataract Creek Gang at the Grand Canyon Railway

Access Aboard the Railway

Boarding the Grand Canyon Rail

The excellent access at the Grand Canyon Railway continues with pre-boarding, when wheelchair-users and slow walkers are boarded before the rest of the passengers. Access is good on this historic train; and train buffs are wowed by the vintage train cars which are pulled by diesel locomotives. There are six classes of service, with Pullman, Coach and First Class being the most accessible.

The Harriman-Style Pullman cars have bench seats that flip so families can sit together and windows that open; while the Budd coach cars have front facing bench seats and air conditioning. The first-class cars have comfortable reclining seats, large windows and air conditioning. All of these cars can be accessed by a portable lift, and they all have wheelchair tie-downs and nearby companion seats. Accessible restrooms with grab bars, wide doorways and ample pathways are also located in these cars

And of course, if you just can’t make up your mind about which class to book, you can always mix classes; and take one class going up and another on the return trip.

The Trip and Beyond

Hopi House on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon

The journey to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon takes about two hours, and you just can’t beat the passing scenery. As an added bonus, roving musicians entertain passengers with western songs along the way. And on-board attendants are always available to field questions and suggest activities for the stop on the South Rim.

Once the train arrives, passengers can explore the South Rim on the the wheelchair-accessible Grand Canyon shuttle. The return train departs for Williams about three hours later; however if you’d like to spend more time on the South Rim you can extend your visit for a night or two. The railway also offers South Rim hotel packages with wheelchair-accessible rooms. And if you’d like to spend the night in Williams after the train returns, they also have wheelchair-accessible rooms at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel.

No matter which package you choose, you’ll have a great time on this scenic railway. Not only is the scenery second-to-none, but the railway employees are extremely accommodating. It’s a great wheelchair-accessible way to experience the Grand Canyon.

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Wheelchair-Accessible Romantic Retreats

Wheelchair-Accessible Romantic Retreats

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Romantic retreats come in all shapes and sizes, From a secluded cabin in the woods to a lakeside lodge, or even a Moroccan retreat, there’s something out there for just about everyone. And today slow walkers and wheelchair-users don’t have to be left out, as many of these choices are now accessible. So with Valentines Day just around the corner, here are some wheelchair-accessible romantic retreats to share with your sweetheart.

Skamania Cabin

Cabin 744 at Skamania Lodge

emerginghorizons.com/relax-in-a-skamania-lodge-wheelchair-accessible-cabin
Located on the fringe of Skamania Lodge in Southwestern Washington, this cozy cabin is perfect for a romantic getaway. It’s got a nice fireplace in the living room, a compact kitchen, a large bedroom, and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. And you can even order room service and enjoy it on the private deck.

Mendocino Retreat

Sunset View from Room 166 at the Little River Inn

emerginghorizons.com/a-wheelchair-accessible-mendocino-coast-retreat
Next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible romantic retreats is The Little River Inn on California’s Mendocino Coast. This wheelchair-accessible room overlooks the ocean and has a luxurious bathroom with a roll-in shower. And if you get a little chilly, there’s also a cozy fireplace in the front room. A great choice for folks who love the coast.

Tenaya Lodge Cabin

Cabin 9 at Tenya Lodge

emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-explorer-cabins-at-tenaya-lodge
If you prefer the mountains, then head up to Yosemite and spend a few nights in this accessible Explorer Cabin at Tenaya Lodge. The cabin is located on a remote slice of the lodge property, which is just a short drive from the national park. And it has two bedrooms, a compact kitchen and a living area with a fireplace. The bathroom is nicely accessible with a roll-in shower, and there’s also a cozy private deck off the master bedroom.

Historic Harvey House

Room 204 at the Castaneda Hotel

emerginghorizons.com/the-castaneda-hotel-a-wheelchair-accessible-harvey-house
History buffs with love this former Harvey House property, which is located in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The Castaneda Hotel, which was originally opened in 1898, was restored and reopened in 2019. And although access wasn’t really a thing back in the days of the Harvey Girls, the new rendition has a nice accessible room with a roll-in shower. It’s a fun property in a historic town.

Crater Lake Lodge

Crater Lake Lodge

emerginghorizons.com/spend-the-night-at-wheelchair-accessible-crater-lake-lodge
Next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible romantic retreats is a rustic lodge that sits on the shore of a mountain lake – Crater Lake to be more specific. The historic lodge is a great place to spend a romantic weekend. The spacious wheelchair-accessible room is located on the ground floor, just steps from the lobby, dining room and terrace. After a day of exploring the lake, settle in for a nice dinner and top it off with drink on the terrace. You just can’t beat the lake view. It’s also a great spot to enjoy a romantic sunset.

A Desert Oasis

Spa Garden at the El Morocco Inn

emerginghorizons.com/the-el-morocco-inn-a-wheelchair-accessible-oasis-in-the-california-desert
For a taste of Morocco without leaving the US, check out the El Morocco Inn in the California desert. Located in Desert Hot Springs, this accessible oasis includes a nice wheelchair-accessible room with a roll-in shower. There’s also good access to the public areas, including the swimming pool and the spa. And if you’d just like to chill, you can kick back in the library and enjoy a book or DVD. Truly there’s something for everyone at this relaxing retreat.

Santa Fe Suite

Suite 102 at the Chimayo Hotel

emerginghorizons.com/a-wheelchair-accessible-santa-fe-lodging-choice
This Santa Fe Hotel offers a nice wheelchair-accessible suite, just steps from the historic Plaza. The Hotel Chimayo features a spacious accessible suite with a large bathroom and a roll-in shower. And there’s also a cozy fireplace in the living room to snuggle up with your sweetheart. Don’t forget to stop in at the Low n’ Slow Bar while you are there. Not only do they have a wide selection of beverages and snacks, but you just can’t beat the retro low rider décor.

Red Canyon Cabin

Cabin 12 at Red Canyon Village

emerginghorizons.com/spend-the-night-in-red-canyon-village
Last but not least on the list of wheelchair-accessible romantic retreats is this Bryce Canyon cabin at Red Canyon Village. Located just a few miles from the national park entrance along scenic Highway 12, this log cabin is just a short walk from the office. It includes a king-sized bed, a compact kitchen and a large bathroom with a roll-in shower. And if you’d like to dine al fresco there’s a picnic table outside and a few chairs on the front porch. A perfect Red Canyon getaway.

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Wheelchair-Accessible Hilton Head Beaches

Wheelchair-Accessible Hilton Head Beaches

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Wheelchair-Accessible Hilton Head beaches are now a reality, thanks to a number of local programs and improvements.

For starters, many of the public beach parks and access points have beach mats down to the high water line. These mats allow wheelchair-users and slow walkers to access the beach without sinking into the sand. The beach mats can be found at these locations.

  • Alder Lane Beach Access
  • Burkes Beach Access
  • Coligny Beach Park
  • Driessen Beach Park
  • Fish Haul Beach Park
  • Folly Field Beach Park
  • Islanders Beach Park

Additionally, there are also loaner beach wheelchairs available at several beach locations. It’s easy to reserve a beach wheelchair on the town website. Just go to secure.rec1.com/SC/hilton-head-island-sc/catalog and create an account. Then look at the calendar and pick an available date.

Beach wheelchairs are available for loan in eight-hour blocks from 8 AM to 4PM, seven days a week. They must be reserved at least three days in advance. After you’ve made your selection, you’ll be prompted to sign a waiver, and then enter a payment method for the $25 refundable deposit. The deposit will be refunded within three business days after the beach wheelchair is returned. Once the transaction is complete, you’ll be given instructions on when and where to pick up your loaner beach wheelchair.

So make plans to explore the wheelchair-accessible Hilton Head beaches.

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Explore These Presidential Museums

Explore These Presidential Museums

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Located across the country, presidential museums and libraries (https://www.archives.gov/presidential-libraries) not only contain an archive of presidential photos and documents, but they also offer exhibits about the former presidents and the eras of their presidency. In most cases they are funded by private foundations and donations; and they are located in the former presidents’ home state or in a state where they had close ties or spent the majority of their life. And the good news is, since these museums serve as visible faces of the former presidents, most of them go well beyond the letter of the law as far as wheelchair access is concerned. So check out these favorites in your future travels.

Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Museum

 

President Eisenhower’s boyhood home at the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum & Boyhood Home

eisenhowerlibrary.gov
Located in Abilene, Kansas the Eisenhower museum complex includes a visitors center, the Place of Meditation, Ike’s boyhood home, the museum and the library. There is level access to the visitors center, where you can pick up a loaner wheelchair. Just to the left of the visitors center you’ll find Ike’s boyhood home. Although there are three steps at the front, there is also a wheelchair lift on the side. The first floor of the house is open to the public and it features original furnishings, photographs and personal items of the Eisenhower family.

The museum itself is just a short walk from the home and it features barrier-free access and a wheelchair-lift at the front entrance. It’s really a must-see for anyone interested in World War II history, as the excellent Military Gallery features documents, photographs and artifacts from the war. It also includes a gallery devoted to Mamie Eisenhower, and one that presents a comprehensive overview of President Eisenhower’s life and achievements.

Last but not least, save some time to visit the Place of Meditation, where President Eisenhower was buried on April 2, 1969. There is level access to the chapel and good pathway access inside. The stained glass windows, which were designed by Odell Prather, are particularly striking.

The LBJ Library

 

Replica of Lady Bird’s office at the LBJ Presidential Library

lbjlibrary.org
This presidential museum is located on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin. Free accessible parking is available in lot 38, which is just a short walk from the museum entrance. Access is excellent throughout the museum too, with elevator access to all floors, accessible restrooms, loaner wheelchairs and plenty of space to wheel around the galleries.

As with all presidential museums, a good chunk of the exhibits chronicle the lives of the first family. And along the way you’ll learn some interesting tidbits. For example, Lady Bird got her nickname from a nurse who declared that she was “as pretty as a lady bird”. Add in a reproduction of the Oval Office, as well as Lady Bird’s office, and the official presidential limousine and you have a well-rounded representation of presidential life.

Like the other presidential museums this one also focuses on the events of the times — in this case the 1960s and the 1970s — so if you happened to grow up in those decades it will be especially interesting to you.

Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum

 

Sikorsky VH-3A “Sea King” helicopter Richard Nixon used for his final departure from the White House after resigning in 1974 at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum

nixonlibrary.gov
Although the Richard M. Nixon Presidential Library and Museum tends to focus more on Mr. Nixon’s long political career, this Yorba Linda museum also includes some small exhibits on Watergate, the Middle East and Nixon’s farewell speech. The Vietnam Gallery also offers some interesting insights on the conflict, as well as an exhibit of items collected by the POWs. Outside, there’s the Richard Nixon birthplace and the presidential helicopter, which was used by presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon and Ford.

Access is good throughout the museum with plenty of accessible parking, ramped access to the front entrance and barrier-free access throughout all the galleries. There is an accessible path from the museum to the birthplace, and a ramped entrance at the back door of the birthplace. There are several steps up to the helicopter; however there is a wide level space around it, with plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair. And it’s an excellent photo op.

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

 

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum

fordlibrarymuseum.gov
Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, this presidential museum gives visitors a good dose of 1970s history. No matter what your political party affiliation, if you lived through the Watergate years, you’ll love this museum. That’s because the former president wanted the museum to be more about history and less about him.

There is level access to the front entrance of the museum, elevator access to all floors and ample room to wheel around in all of the galleries. Part of the museum focuses on the 38th President’s career, family and military life; however the bulk of it is dedicated to events that occurred just prior to and during his presidency, or those that were influenced by his presidency. Must-sees include the tools used in the Watergate break in and a fascinating exhibit about the Nixon pardon.

Jimmy Carter Library and Museum

 

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum

jimmycarterlibrary.gov
The Jimmy Carter Library and Museum is located about five minutes from downtown Atlanta, on a 35-acre wooded parcel dotted with ponds. Highlights of this museum include a replica of the Oval Office, photographs and memorabilia from the Carter Presidency, and an interesting Camp David exhibit. And of course, don’t miss the gallery filled with Head of State gifts.

Accessible parking is located near the museum, with ramp access to the entrance. Inside there’s plenty of room to wheel around the spacious galleries, with ramp access to some exhibits. Outside, paved pathways lead around the spacious grounds, with wheelchair access to most areas.

Ronald Regan Library & Museum

 

Replica of the Oval Office at the Ronald Regan Presidential Foundation & Institute

reaganlibrary.com
Located in Simi Valley, California, the Ronald Regan Library & Museum features hundreds of artifacts that chronicle the former-president’s life, career and political accomplishments. There’s a drop-off area for wheelchair-users and slow walkers in front of the museum, with barrier-free access to the entrance and good pathway access inside. A loaner wheelchair is also available at the front desk.

The museum features 125,000 square-feet of gallery space that highlights Regan’s family life, movie career and life in the White House. It also includes a replica of the Oval Office and a section of the Berlin Wall. As an added bonus, many of the exhibits are interactive, so visitors can act in a movie with Ronald Regan or set a table for a White House dinner.

One of the highlights of the museum is Air Force One. There is elevator access down to the tarmac in the Air Force One Pavilion, where you can walk and roll around the plane. Although stairs lead up to the plane, there is also a lift available. That said the airplane aisle is only 28-inches wide, so it may be too narrow for some wheelchair-users. Still it’s fun to great a peek inside.

George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

 

George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

bush41.org
Located about 100 miles east of Austin, College Station is the site of the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. More specifically, the museum is located on the Texas A&M University Campus.

There’s plenty of accessible parking near the museum, with level access through the plaza to the front lobby. Wheelchairs are available for loan at the front desk, and there’s elevator access to all floors, with barrier-free pathways though the galleries.

Exhibits focus on the life of the former president, and include some reflections of Mr. Bush’s time in the Navy. As one of the Navy’s youngest pilots, he was shot down in the Pacific, and his rescue was recorded on a hand-held movie camera. Today that film clip is on display in the museum. Other exhibits focus on Mr. Bush’s presidential campaigns, his oil business and his stint as a United Nations Ambassador.

Several exhibits focus on events that had an impact on the Bush presidency, with video screens playing back snippets of history. Then there’s the replica of the Oval Office, the collection of state gifts and even the president’s reaction to Watergate. And of course there is a gallery dedicated to the First Lady, as well as one which focuses on the life of President and Mrs. Bush after leaving the White House.

Clinton Presidential Center

 

Clinton Presidential Center

clintonfoundation.org/clinton-presidential-center
Last but certainly not least in our roundup of presidential museums is the Clinton Presidential Center, located in the River Market District in Little Rock, Arkansas. The 20,000 square-foot exhibit space features excellent access to all galleries, sleek wood floors and level access to the front entrance. And if you don’t think you can manage this massive space on foot, loaner wheelchairs are available.

The exhibits chronicle the Clinton presidency, and include a replica of the Oval Office (complete with a moon rock), items from Bill’s childhood, and even a collection of Saturday Night Live clips featuring Clinton impersonations. There’s also a wing that features the splendor of the White House during the holidays and shows how the Clinton’s gave the presidential residence special touches to really make it their home.

All in all the Clinton Presidential Center houses one of the best presidential collections, and it’s definitely worth a visit. Plan to spend the whole day there though, as there’s definitely a lot to see.

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