Lodging

Hendy Woods: Explore the Accessible Redwoods

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Hendy Woods: Explore the Accessible Redwoods

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Hendy Woods State Park

Located in sleepy Mendocino County, just east of the hamlet of Philo, Hendy Woods State Park (www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=438) is home to an off-the-beaten-path wheelchair-accessible redwood grove. And although it’s easy to pass by this secluded park, it’s definitely worth a slight detour on any road trip along scenic Highway 128. Whether it’s for a picnic and a short stroll, a longer hike through the grove, or even a sleep-over in a camping cabin, a stop at Hendy Woods offers wheelchair-users and slow walkers an abundance of options.

Wander Through the Grove

All Access Trail in Hendy Woods State Park

There are several wheelchair-accessible hikes in Hendy Woods, but they all begin in the day use area parking lot. There’s accessible parking in the lot with level access over to the picnic area, where you’ll find several accessible tables under the trees. There’s also an accessible vault toilet near the parking area.

The shortest accessible trail begins on the other side of the picnic area. The .3-mile All Access Trail, is wide, level and doable for just about everyone. The hard-packed dirt trail, which winds through Big Hendy Grove, is lined with redwoods and ferns. The trail ends on the park road; and from there you can double back through the redwoods for a .6-mile hike, or roll along the paved park road back to the day use area.

The accessible Discovery Loop Trail, which branches off of the All Access Trail, is another good choice. This .45 mile hard-packed dirt trail travels through the grove for a nice .85-mile hike. And if you’re up for a longer stroll, then take the Upper Loop Trail which branches off the Discovery Loop for a nice 1.8-mile hike through the grove.

Camp in the Redwoods

Puma Cabin in Hendy Woods Redwood State Park

Although spending the day at Hendy Woods is a treat, there’s nothing quite like spending the night surrounded by the giant redwoods. And although the Azalea Campground offers four accessible campsites, the adjacent Wildcat Campground also boasts a comfortable wheelchair-accessible camping cabin.

The Puma Cabin (1), which is located right across from the visitor center, is pretty basic, but it will save you from pitching a tent. There’s accessible parking on a cement slab in front of the unit, with level access over to the front door. Although there’s a slight lip on the threshold, most folks can bump over it easily. Inside there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair around the bunk bed (double on bottom, single on top), wood stove, table and bench. Bedding is not provided, and you’ll definitely want to bring an air mattress or an egg crate, as the wooden bunks are bare – and hard. Outside there’s level access to a raised grill and an accessible picnic table.

There’s no water or plumbing in the cabin, but an accessible showerhouse is just a short roll away. Both the men’s and women’s sides include a accessible stall, roll-under sinks, and roll-in showers with grab bars, a lowered showerhead and a built-in shower bench. The pay slots for the showers are within easy wheelchair reach, and the accessible shower stalls also feature enlarged changing areas.

Accessible Shower and Toilet in the Showerhouse at Hendy Woods Redwood State Park

All in all the Puma cabin is a rustic but comfortable wheelchair-accessible lodging option. After all, how often do you get to spend the night in an ancient redwood grove?

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Six Wheelchair-Accessible Picks for a Valentine’s Day Getaway

Six Wheelchair-Accessible Picks for a Valentine’s Day Getaway

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February is the month of love, and many folks celebrate it with a Valentine’s Day romantic retreat with their sweetheart. And although most chain hotels have at least minimal wheelchair access, that can’t always be said for quaint inns, rustic lodges and cozy cabins. With that in mind here’s a selection of some unique wheelchair-accessible picks that will simply wow your sweetie this Valentine’s Day.

Black Bear Inn

 

The Black Bear Inn in Arnold, California

emerginghorizons.com/sleep-near-the-big-trees-in-calaveras-county/
Located in the logging town of Arnold, this Central California mountain lodge is surrounded by the forest. The accessible Calaveras Suite is furnished with a comfy king-sized bed and includes a spacious bathroom with a roll-in shower. Add in a cozy fireplace in the gathering room and you have the perfect romantic package.

Asilomar

The “Stuck-Up” Inn at Asilomar Conference Center

emerginghorizons.com/escape-to-the-monterey-peninsula/
If you’d prefer a coastal escape, then look no further than Asilomar, which is located near Monterey in Northern California. Two accessible rooms are located in the historic section of this property, and they both include a bathroom with a roll-in shower. It’s not unusual to look out your window to see deer grazing outside; and there’s nothing better than a romantic stroll along the beach on the accessible Dunes Boardwalk.

Jim Bridger Cabins

 

Rooftop deck on Cabin 2 at the Jim Bridger Explorer Cabins

emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-yellowstone-lodging-at-jim-bridge-explorer-cabins/
Located in the northern gateway to Yellowstone National Park, this small complex of nine cabins includes an accessible unit. It features two bedrooms, a small kitchen and living area, and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. Enjoy s’mores around a nearby fire circle or watch the sunset from the accessible rooftop deck. Or just snuggle up next to the fire inside.

Victoria Inn

 

Entry to room 15 at the Victoria Inn

emerginghorizons.com/spend-the-night-at-the-murphys-victoria-inn/
This California Gold Country Inn exudes a decidedly old world ambiance. The accessible unit is located a short walk from the main building, and has its own private entrance. It’s furnished with a queen-sized bed and the bathroom includes a 36-inch square transfer-type shower. And there’s a cozy front porch where you can enjoy a glass of wine, before you stroll down Main Street for dinner.

Maumee Bay Cabin

 

Cabin 17 at Maumee Bay Lodge

emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-maumee-bay-cabin/
This northern Ohio cabin is located a short drive from the main lodge. There’s an accessible bedroom with a king-sized bed downstairs, as well as a bathroom with a roll-in shower. Other features include a spacious deck which overlooks the adjacent marsh, and a large fireplace in the great room. Even better, it offers plenty of privacy for a romantic retreat.

Skamania Lodge Treehouse

 

Angels Rest Accessible Treehouse Suite at Skamania Lodge, Oregon

emerginghorizons.com/sleep-in-a-wheelchair-accessible-treehouse-at-skamania-lodge/
Last but not least in our Valentine’s Day picks is this romantic treehouse at Skamania Lodge. It’s located in a quiet corner of this Washington property, and it offers ramp access to the front door. Inside, windows line the walls, so you feel surrounded by the forest. It’s furnished with a king-sized bed, and the bathroom includes an oversized roll-in shower. Top it off with a spacious deck and an indoor-outdoor fireplace and you have the perfect romantic retreat. So perfect, that a segment of The Bachelorette was filmed at this property!

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Estes Park Center — A Rocky Mountain National Park Family Lodging Pick

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Estes Park Center — A Rocky Mountain National Park Family Lodging Pick

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Longs Peak Lodge at Estes Park Center

National parks make a great multigenerational vacation choice. Grandparents can spend time with their grandkids and help them earn their junior ranger badges, while mom and dad can take the afternoon off and enjoy mother nature. And nothing beats a family campfire in the evening. That said, planning a multigenerational national park adventure can be a challenge, as you to need consider a wide range of ages, abilities and interests. And then there’s the lodging issue. On the plus side, if your itinerary includes Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park Center (ymcarockies.org/Locations/Estes-Park-Center) makes the perfect wheelchair-accessible home base for the whole family.

Spend the Night

Located just outside of Estes Park, Estes Park Center is about three miles from the Beaver Meadows Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. The hotel-style lodge rooms are the perfect choice for several families traveling together, or even a family reunion. Each family can have their own lodge room, and there’s also a comfortable lobby with a fireplace in each building. So you can have you privacy, or be a social butterfly — the choice is entirely yours. And although this property is open to everyone, YMCA of the Rockies members get a discount.

Longs Peak Lodge, which is just a short drive from the office, is one of the most accessible lodge choices. There’s plenty of accessible parking in front, with level access up to the lodge entrance. Accessible Room 8101 is located one floor down and is accessible by elevator.

Room 8101 at Longs Peak Lodge

The room features wide doors and good pathway access, and it’s furnished with two 26-inch high queen-sized beds, with an access aisle between them. A table and two chairs are also included; and a floor futon mattress is available upon request. There’s level access through a wide door to the oversized bathroom, which is equipped with a roll-in shower with a hand-held showerhead, grab bars and a fold-down shower bench. Toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and there’s also a roll-under sink in the bathroom.

Bathroom in room 8101 at Longs Peak Lodge

And for a nice family meal, head over to the Aspen Dining Room. Although there’s a path down to it from Longs Peak Lodge, it’s a bit steep and rocky. Best bet is to drive down if you have mobility issues. There is level access to the dining room, which offers a breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet. There are also a lot of large tables, so it’s a great family dining option. Even better — breakfast for two is included with each room.

Activities Galore

Part of Estes Park Center is located on 860 pine-studded acres, and surrounded on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park. A popular reunion venue, this family oriented lodge has plenty of activities for all ages.

Lodge guests can take advantage of the Day Camps, which includes a variety of programs for kids of all ages, as well as a substernal menu of offerings for the whole family. And with advance notice, they are usually able to accommodate children with access needs. It’s a good opportunity for kids to bond, learn a little bit about nature, and get some exercise.

If, on the other hand, you’d prefer to strike out on your own, then check out the wheelchair-accessible Enger Family Nature Trail. It begins at the Boone Family Mountain Center and loops through the surrounding forest, with interpretive panels about the forest ecosystem along the way. It makes for a nice inclusive one-mile walk through the forest.

Finally, you can also take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. Sprague Lake and Bear Lake are good choices, as they they are close and they both have wheelchair-accessible trails. Plan ahead though, as entrance reservations are now required for Rocky Mountain National Park (emerginghorizons.com/national-park-entrance-reservations-required-in-2024/)

The bottom line is, Estes Park Center makes an excellent home base for a Rocky Mountain National Park visit. The park is just a stones throw away, and there’s really no shortage of fun activities for Estes Park Center guests, where the motto is, “boredom is simply not an option.”

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Wheelchair-Accessible Orlando Rental

Wheelchair-Accessible Orlando Rental

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Pool at Disavillatee

Located near Disney World, in the Highlands Reserve Gold and Country Club, Disavillatee is a five-bedroom wheelchair-accessible Orlando rental. This luxury villa is owned by avid Disney fans Ivan and Judy Berry. The Berrys purchased the unit in 2001, and have adapted it to Ivan’s ever-changing needs, due to his degenerative muscle condition. The Berry’s use it as a vacation home, and they rent it out when they are not in residence.

There’s level access or ramped thresholds at all the doors, with good pathway access throughout the first floor. The master bedroom on the main level has a wheelchair-height bed for easy transfers, and if you need to rent a hospital bed, there’s plenty of room for it in this spacious suite. The master bathroom has a roll-in shower with grab bars and a fold-down shower seat. A rolling shower chair is also available. There are grab bars around the toilet, and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair in the bathroom. The home also has a lovely lanai and a screened in deck with a swimming pool. There’s good pathway access around the deck, and a pool lift is also available.

Bathroom at Disavillatee

Disavillatee can sleep up to 10 people. And when you rent it, you deal directly with the owners, so there are no booking fees or extra charges. The Berrys are also happy to answer any questions about accessibility that you may have. So if you’re looking for a wheelchair-accessible Orlando rental for your next holiday, check out disavillatee.com.

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Relax and Recharge at Hofsas House in Carmel

Relax and Recharge at Hofsas House in Carmel

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Hofsas House in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

Located 120 miles south of San Francisco, Carmel-by-the-Sea simply oozes charm. This one-square-mile European-style village boasts Bavarian architecture, quaint shops, galleries of all sorts, and one of the most beautiful beaches in Northern California. Often described as a storybook setting, this Northern California enclave is the perfect place to unplug, relax and recharge. And there’s no better lodging choice than Hofsas House — a historic property with modern access upgrades and an owner with the right attitude.

Hofsas House

Located just a few blocks from the town center, Hofsas House (www.hofsashouse.com) is a great lodging pick for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. Although this property dates back to 1947, owner Carrie Theis has proactively made access upgrades over the years. And thanks to her efforts, guests with mobility disabilities can now truly enjoy this Carmel-by-the-Sea gem.

Although there are two steps up to the front office (and absolutely no room for a ramp), Carrier offers in-car registration for guests with mobility disabilities. After that, you can drive around and parallel park right in front of accessible room 37. And if you need help, luggage assistance is also available. There are a few slight half-inch lips along the pathway to the room, but all-in-all it’s pretty doable.

Access features in the room include wide doorways, good pathway access, and level access out to the spacious back balcony. Since the property is built into the hillside, this street level room is actually on the third floor, so there’s a great ocean view from the balcony. There is wheelchair-access to both sides of the 25-inch high open-frame king-sized bed, and the room is furnished with two easy chairs, a small table, a microwave and a refrigerator,

The bathroom has a full five-foot turning radius, and it’s equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. The toilet has grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated); and there’s a roll-under sink with a very spacious counter located just outside the bathroom.

Bottom line — it’s a comfortable room with good access and a great view.

(click image to enlarge)

But Wait — There’s More!

Of course there’s more to Hofsas House than just the room — they also go above and beyond in the service department too. For example, since there are two steps up into the hotel lobby (where the Continental breakfast is served), Carrie will happily arrange for breakfast delivery to your room if you can’t manage the steps. 

In the end, Carrie is constantly finding ways to make her historic property more accessible. Previously the pool area was not accessible to wheelchair-users and slow walkers. Now, thanks to Carrie, there’s an accessible path to the pool from the lower parking area, and the pool also has a lift. So now everyone can enjoy some pool fun.

Says Carrie, “If we can accommodate folks, we will; but I encourage people to call us and discuss their access needs, so we can provide them with the right room.” A long-time business owner in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carrie adds, “I know every property in town, and if our place won’t work, I will suggest one that will.”

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custer-2

Wheelchair-Accessible Camping Cabins at Custer State Park

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Although there’s no shortage of accessible lodging options in and around Custer State Park (gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/), there’s something to be said for foregoing the creature comforts and spending the night in a a more natural setting. That doesn’t mean you have to rough it though. Quite the contrary, as these wheelchair-accessible camping cabins at Custer State Park offer a number of modern amenities. And you just can’t beat the location — just a few miles north of the West Entrance to Wildlife Loop Drive in the Blue Bell Campground.

Comfortable Camping Cabins

To be honest, the Blue Bell Campground is easy to miss, as it’s hard to see the sign for it when you are heading south on Highway 87. The turn is located just past Blue Bell Lodge on the left– look for the stables. After you turn in, you’ll see the sign pointing to the campground. Just follow the sign to the camping cabins.

Cabins 14 and 15, which are located across from the showerhouse, are the wheelchair-accessible camping cabins. They each have a paved parking area in front, with level access over to the ramped front deck. The one-room cabins boasts a level threshold, a wide door and wood flooring for easy rolling. They are furnished with two 23-inch high bunk beds with room for a wheelchair between them. One lower bunk is a double, while the rest are twins. Linens are not provided so make sure and pack along some sheets or a sleeping bag. Other furnishings include a table and a bench, a storage shelf and a coat hook.

Inside Cabin 15 at the Blue Bell Campground in Custer State Park

As an added bonus each cabin also has two electric outlets. overhead lighting, heating and air conditioning. Plus, there’s an accessible picnic table on the spacious deck, and a raised grill next to each cabin. And the cabins are located in a verdant pine forest, in a quiet campground.

There’s an accessible family shower in the showerhouse. It’s equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fixed shower bench. Other access features include a full five-foot turning radius, toilet grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated) and a roll-under sink.

Bathhouse at the Blue Bell Campground in Custer State Park

Bottom line — the Blue Bell Campground offers comfortable and affordable wheelchair-accessible camping cabins in Custer State Park. Visit reservations.gooutdoorssouthdakota.com/ for reservations. They also make the perfect home base for the annual Custer Buffalo Roundup (emerginghorizons.com/head-over-to-the-custer-buffalo-roundup/).

Buffalo at Custer State Park
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Wheelchair-Accessible Costa Rica Casitas

Wheelchair-Accessible Costa Rica Casitas

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Casa Elios in Costa Rica

If a Caribbean vacation is in your future, then check out these wheelchair-accessible Costa Rica casitas. Located on the southern Nicola Peninsula in Playa Hermosa, these homes were built to be accessible by wheelchair-user Mark Overson. The Costa Rica homes can be rented together for a family gathering, or separately for a more intimate getaway.

Casa Elios

Casa Elios is the larger of the two homes. This two-bedroom, one-bathroom house can sleep up to five, and features good pathway access throughout the unit. The fully equipped kitchen includes new appliances and all the dishes and utensils you need to whip up a gourmet spread.

The master bedroom has an adjustable king-sized bed, while the second bedroom has three single beds. The bathroom has a Continental-style shower with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. It’s also equipped with a roll-under sink and an accessible toilet. Even better – all of the furniture in the house was custom built to be wheelchair-accessible.

Casa Tranquil

The adjacent home — Casa Tranquil — is equally accessible. It features good pathway access throughout the unit, and it can sleep up to three people. There is a queen-sized futon on the main level, and an additional sleeping loft that can accommodate one or two people. It’s also equipped with a kitchen and a small dining table.

The bathroom has the same access features as the one in Casa Elios, including a Continental-style shower with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. It also has a roll-under sink and an accessible toilet with grab bars.

As an added bonus, Casa Tranquil is surrounded by trees for privacy, so it’s the perfect choice for a couples getaway. And both homes have secure parking, air conditioning and high-speed internet.

The Public Spaces

Both wheelchair-accessible Costa Rica casitas share a tranquil public space, which includes a large deck with private pool in a tropical garden setting. There’s barrier-free access around the pool, which is equipped with a pulley style lift. Says Mark’s wife Susan, “We had to buy all the equipment in the states and then take it to Costa Rica and install it.”

The houses are close to the beach, but it’s best to bring a wheelchair with fat tires for easier rolling. There’s also a surf camp nearby that can provide adaptive surf lessons and equipment. And if you’d like to try yoga, the Oversons can recommend an instructor who will work with you.

As an added bonus, Mark and Susan are happy to help guests plan an accessible getaway to Costa Rica, as they have been visiting the country for many years, and they’ve developed some good local contacts that can lend an accessible hand. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of traveling to Costa Rica, or hitting the surf – or both – Mark and Susan can help make it happen.

For more information about these wheelchair-accessible Costa Rica casitas visit airbnb.com/rooms/24129359.
And if you have any questions about the units, then give Susan Overson a call at (952) 270-3027 or drop her an e-mail at oversonlanding@yahoo.com. She can also send you a drone video of the house and the surrounding area. So start planning your wheelchair-accessible Costa Rica getaway today.

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A Wheelchair-Accessible Mendocino Coast Retreat

A Wheelchair-Accessible Mendocino Coast Retreat

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The Little River Inn in Little River, California

Romantic retreats come in all shapes and sizes, but truly there’s nothing better than toasting your sweetheart as you both enjoy a magical sunset on the rugged Northern California coast. Picture it — the waves crash against the rocks, there’s a slight breeze in the air, and the sun slips slowly beneath the colorful horizon. What could be more perfect? And although this idyllic moment may seem like something that can only be created on a Hollywood soundstage, truly it’s well within your reach. As with real estate transactions, the key ingredient here is location; and in this case, that location is the Little River Inn (littleriverinn.com) in scenic Mendocino County. And the great news is, it’s also an excellent choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.

The Wheelchair-Accessible Mendocino Coast Inn

Perched on a hillside with a commanding view of the Pacific Ocean, the Little River Inn is one of the oldest properties in the area. It was built in 1857 by Ole Coombs, and it remains in the family today. In fact, the Combs family is very proud of their “five generations in the hospitality business”. And their experience definitely shows in their excellent customer service.

The 65-room property, which is set on 225 wooded acres, now also boasts luxury suites and spacious cottages, along with a nine-hole golf course, tennis courts and even a salon and day spa. Access upgrades have also been added over the years; in fact the Coombs family did a great job of preserving the ambiance of this historic property, while making it an attractive and accessible choice for customers with mobility issues.

The office and registration area is located in the historic building near the front of the property. Accessible parking is located close to the front door; however there are steps up to the front porch. Best bet is to pull around on the left side to access a ramp that winds around to the front porch. From there, it’s a piece of cake, with ramp access to the office, and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair inside.

The Room

Room 166 at the Little River Inn

Room 166, which is a accessible deluxe oceanview room, is located near the back of the complex, well away from the main road. Standard parking is located just steps from the front door, and with two spaces reserved for the room, there’s plenty of room to park an accessible van and deploy the lift or ramp. There’s level access to the front door with excellent pathway access in the spacious room. Other access features include wide doorways, lever handles, a lowered clothing rod, drapery wands and low-pile carpet for easy rolling.

Furnishings include a 27-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, two night tables, and a desk with a chair. A table and two chairs are strategically positioned by the picture window, and two easy chairs sit near the gas fireplace. Top it off with a wet bar with a refrigerator and a coffee maker and you have everything you need.

Toilet in room 166

Toilet in room 166
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Toilet in room 166

The spacious bathroom includes a full five-foot turning radius, and is outfitted with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a built-in ceramic tile shower bench. The well designed shower is extremely user-friendly, with the bench located close to the shower controls, and plenty of room for transfers. There’s also a separate 22-inch high Jacuzzi tub with grab bars in the bathroom. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and a lowered mirror hangs above the roll-under sink.

Room 166 at the Little River Inn, (view 2)

It’s a comfortable room with excellent access, and a spectacular ocean view from the balcony. There’s level access out to the balcony through a large sliding glass door, and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair outside. And if it’s stormy, there’s also a beautiful view from just about any spot in the room.

The Cuisine

Of course the accommodations at this wheelchair-accessible Mendocino Coast inn are only half the story, as the Little River Dining Room is also the perfect choice for a romantic dinner. Located next to the office, the restaurant features barrier-free access, with plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair. And you just can’t beat the serene ocean and garden views.

The menu highlights fresh local fare and includes offerings such as salads filled with local greens, luscious bowls of clam chowder and Thai inspired rock cod. And if you’d like some pub fare, they also offer fish and chips and cheeseburgers. Add in an extensive wine list and you have everything you need,

Although the restaurant offers an equally enticing breakfast menu, room service is also available. Choose from Eggs Benedict, Huevos Rancheros, a bevy of traditional breakfast favorites and even Swedish Hotcakes. Plus you just can’t beat the ocean view from your room.

All in all, the Little River Inn is the perfect place to steal away with your sweetie for a wheelchair-accessible Mendocino Coast getaway. And if you forget the name of the property, just think of romance and you’ll remember their phone number — (888) INN-LOVE.

Sunset view at the Little River Inn
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belton-chalet-4

Historic Belton Chalet Boasts Modern Access Features

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Belton Chalet

The Great Northern Railroad played an essential role in the development of the infrastructure of Glacier National Park (emerginghorizons.com/glacier-national-park/). After the park was established, the railroad quickly promoted “America’s Alps” and built Swiss chalet style accommodations to house the well-heeled park visitors. Of course these chalets had plenty of western touches on the interior to remind folks that this was truly an American experience. Gladly many of those properties have survived over the years and still welcome guests today.

Historic West Glacier Train Station located across from the Belton Chalet

Belton Chalet (glacierparkcollection.com) is one of those properties. Built in 1910 — the same year that Glacier National Park was established — this property is conveniently located across the street from the historic West Glacier Train Station. Now a National Landmark, Belton Chalet makes a great stop for rail buffs, and a comfortable overnight stay for everyone. And although the historic building exudes a definite charm of yesteryear, it’s also equipped with modern day access features. As a result, wheelchair-users and slow walkers can now take a step back in time and spend the night in this historic national park chalet.

Belton Chalet

The property is located in West Glacier, off of Highway 2, behind the Belton Tap Room. Just look for the train station across the street. There’s accessible parking with ramp access up to the front door, and plenty of room to roll around on the deck. Inside, the lobby is dominated by a large stone fireplace, with good pathway access over to the front desk. There’s also a large accessible family restroom located near the front desk.

Room 21, which is an accessible queen, is located just off the lobby. It features wide doorways, and wood floors for easy rolling. It’s furnished with a 25-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on the left side (as you face it), a desk, two chairs, a chest of drawers and a bedside table. Add in the wooden windows, vintage coat hooks, and the transom over the bathroom door for that early 1900s charm. And there’s a real door key — no plastic key cards for this property. As an added bonus, there are no TVs or other electronic distractions in this vintage room. Additionally, Room 21 is especially suited for slow walkers, as it’s just a short distance from the parking area to the room.

Room 21 at Belton Chalet

The oversized bathroom includes a full five-foot turning radius, and is equipped with a large transfer-type shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. There is about a three inch lip on the shower pan, but there’s plenty of room to transfer to the shower bench from the bathroom. Other access features include toilet grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated), and a roll-under sink.

Bathroom in room 21 at Belton Chalet

The Extras

This property is a must-see for anyone who is interested in railroad history as the hallways are lined with vintage posters and calendars of the Empire Builder. And there’s level access to the deck, where you can see — and hear — the trains pass through. As an added bonus the accessible room is located on the quieter back side of the property; however ear plugs are provided should the passing trains present a problem.

Next door, there’s also level access to the Belton Tap Room from the accessible parking spot. Even if you don’t have dinner there, you’ll want to make sure and listen for the evening Empire Builder train, as the staff lines the restaurant balconies to welcome arriving guests. It’s a page out of railroad history. The train usually rolls in between 9:30 and 10:00 in the evening, but delays are always possible. And if you do decide to have a bite to eat a the Tap Room, reservations are highly recommended.

Add in the little extras like chocolate chip cookies at check-in and coffee and pastries in the morning, and Belton Chalet makes great home base for any Glacier National Park visit. Give it a try on your next visit.

Barrier-Free TravelGlacier, Yellowstoneand Grand Teton National Parksfor Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

Barrier-Free Travel
Glacier, Yellowstone
and Grand Teton National Parks
for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers

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AutoCamp Zion Excels in Accessibility

AutoCamp Zion Excels in Accessibility

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The Clubhouse at AutoCamp Zion

Surrounded by the signature red rock formations that are found throughout Zion Canyon, AutoCamp Zion (autocamp.com/location/zion/?gad_source=1) delivers on both accessibility and ambiance. Located about 20 miles from Zion National Park, this sixth property in the AutoCamp portfolio not only gives guests an upscale glamping experience, but it also goes above and beyond as far as access is concerned.

The AutoCamp formula is simple — they provide upscale airstream camping trailers and fun communal spaces in some of the nation’s most scenic areas. Although they’ve always been keen on providing top-notch accessibility, it seems that each AutoCamp property is more accessible than the last. And happily, that trend continues at the new Zion location.

The AutoCamp experience begins at the Clubhouse, where guests leave their cars, check-in and walk — or roll — to their individual units. There’s plenty of accessible parking near the Clubhouse, with ramp access up to the building. Inside there’s ample room to maneuver even a large wheelchair or scooter over to the lowered front desk. It’s just a pleasant space to begin your AutoCamp visit.

Spend the Night at AutoCamp Zion

Accessible suite 104 at AutoCamp Zion

AutoCamp Zion has five accessible units, all of which are located close to the Clubhouse and public areas. Most guests pack their luggage into the colorful AutoCamp wagons and trek off to their trailers. That said, even though the accessible units are just a short accessible roll from the Clubhouse, luggage assistance and transportation to the front door can also be provided upon request. In short, if you need anything, just ask.

Accessible suite 104 is located a short walk from the Clubhouse, and across from the pool. There’s ramp access up to the deck and level access through the double front door to the accessible suite. Inside, the living area is furnished with a fold-out sofa, a table and a TV; while the adjacent kitchen includes an accessible sink, a cooktop, a microwave and a refrigerator. And of course all the dishes, utensils and cookware that you could possibly need. The adjacent bathroom features a wide barn door and a full five foot turning radius. It’s outfitted with a Continental zero-step shower with a fold-down shower seat, a hand-held showerhead and grab bars. The bathroom also includes a roll-under sink and toilet grab bars on the right side (as seated).

Located on the other end of the trailer, the bedroom features a wide doorway and is furnished with a 25-inch high open-frame queen-sized bed. There’s wheelchair access on the left side of the bed (as you face it) and the panoramic back window offers a great view of the surrounding landscape. It’s a nice place to cuddle up and enjoy the night sky, yet still retain your privacy.

Add in a propane firepit on the front deck to melt some marshmallows for s’mores, and you have the quintessential AutoCamp experience.

 

Enjoy the Public Spaces

Pool lift at AutoCamp Zion

The public spaces at AutoCamp Zion are equally appealing; in fact they’re a mainstay of the the AutoCamp brand. Take the pool area for example. It’s conveniently located near the accessible units and features good pathway access and a pool lift. And if you’d like to lounge during the midday sun, there are also plenty of umbrellas.

There’s an adjacent bathhouse and changing area, which features individual accessible rooms which each have a roll-in shower, a roll-under sink and a toilet with grab bars. And since half the rooms are on one side of the corridor, and half are on the other, they are mirror images, so you have your choice of toilet grab bar placement. There’s also barrier-free access to this area from the Clubhouse.

Accessible changing room in the bathhouse

And the Clubhouse is more than just a place to register and get your keycard. It’s also home to The Kitchen which offers light breakfast items in the morning, and pizza, burgers and snacks, as well as a nice selection of wine and beer in the afternoon. Eat in the lounge or take it back to your place — the choice is yours. And if you want to make your own meal, they also have all inclusive grill kits available. The small General Store, which is located near the front door, offers beverages, snacks, grocery items and even a s’mores kit. Just add fire and you’re set to go.

Inside the Clubhouse at AutoCamp Zion

And although there are individual firepits at all the sites, if you’d prefer a community experience, there’s also a large fire circle located near the Clubhouse. It’s the perfect place to chill after a full day of exploring Zion; and a great finale to any AutoCamp adventure.

 

Barrier-Free TravelUtah National Parksfor Wheelers and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

Barrier-Free Travel
Utah National Parks
for Wheelers and Slow Walkers

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