Population 1,307
Fanning Springs is a great place to get away from the city. And there’s no better place to stay than in the Fanning Springs State Park (https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fanning-springs-state-park) cabins. One two bedroom cabin is wheelchair-accessible, and it includes a full kitchen and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. It also has a large wrap around screened porch that’s furnished with a picnic table, a swing, three rocking chairs and a small side table. And for added comfort on warm evenings, it’s also equipped with ceiling fans. There’s also an accessible boardwalk that winds through a cypress swamp, just a short walk from the cabin. The Palmetto Nature Trail, which winds through the forest, may also be doable for some wheelchair-users. And don’t’ miss the 32-mile Nature Coast Trail, which features barrier-free access along its length, with a trailhead just across the street for the 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?
Barrier-Free Travel California National Park Road Trips for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
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!
Barrier-Free Travel California National Park Road Trips for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
Stained Glass in the Ridge Top Cabin at Wilderness on Wheels, Colorado
Located 60 miles west of Denver near Kenosha Pass, Wilderness on Wheels (WOW) (www.wildernessonwheels.org) offers wheelchair-users and slow walkers the opportunity to hike through a pine forest, fish in a well-stocked pond and spend the night in a tent, hut or in one of two wheelchair-accessible Colorado cabins.
Founded in 1986 by Roger West, WOW is supported through donations, grants and a robust army of dedicated volunteers. There’s no charge to use the boardwalk trails, fishing pond or picnic areas; and the campsites, huts and wheelchair-accessible Colorado cabins are available at very reasonable rates. Not only does WOW make an excellent day trip from Denver, but it can also be worked into a longer Rocky Mountain National Park road trip itinerary (emerginghorizons.com/all-terrain-wheelchair-in-rocky-mountain-national-park/).
Hike, Picnic & Fish
Riverside Boardwalk at Wilderness on Wheels
Accessible parking is available in a large lot at WOW, with barrier-free access over to the ramped office. Inside there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair or scooter around the office and gift shop.
There are two boardwalk trails on the property — the River Boardwalk and the Mountain Boardwalk. The half-mile River Boardwalk follows a mountain stream, winds past the fishing pond, and continues through the forest to the rustic log cabin. And if you’d like to enjoy a picnic lunch there’s an accessible gazebo near the beginning of the boardwalk, and a ramped picnic shelter near the campsites.
Additionally, there’s level access over to an accessible fishing platform that overlooks the pond. Some accessible fishing gear — including a wheelchair rod holder — is available in the office, but anglers must supply their own fishing rods and bait. The pond is stocked with rainbow trout, and although no fishing license is required for disabled anglers, there is a limit of three fish per person. Able-bodied fisherman with a fishing license are welcome to try their luck over in the stream that runs alongside the boardwalk.
The Mountain Boardwalk at Wilderness on Wheels
The Mountain Boardwalk begins on the other side of the parking lot. This mile-long trail winds gently up to the ridgetop, which has an elevation of just over 9,000 feet. There are several picnic tables along the way, and lots of spots to stop and rest. There’s also barrier-free access to the adjacent property, where the Family Music Festival is held every August. Wheelchair-users can view the festivities and grab a bite to eat on the boardwalk, while the main seating area is located next to the boardwalk. There’s no charge to attend the festival, but it is a fundraiser for WOW, and donations are gladly accepted.
Camp Under the Stars
Tent Platform at Wilderness on Wheels
If you’d like to sleep under the stars, WOW also has a nice selection of accessible campsites and huts along the Riverside Boardwalk. The campsites each include a charcoal grill, a fire ring and an accessible picnic table. Some of the campsites have tent platforms, while the rest have level space to pitch a tent. And some can even accommodate a RV.
Camping Hut at Wilderness on Wheels
The wheelchair-height huts feature a lockable door. Just bring your sleeping bag, roll it out on the platform, then transfer over and tuck yourself in for the night. One hut also includes a cot. The huts all feature a picnic table — some are covered — a charcoal grill and a fire ring. One of the huts also has electricity.
Campers are asked to bring their own charcoal, but plenty of free firewood is available on site. There are no showers in the campground, but accessible restrooms are located near the office. Potable water is also available near the beginning of the River Boardwalk. Plan ahead though, as advance reservations for the campsites and huts are essential.
Wheelchair-Accessible Colorado Cabins
There are also two wheelchair-accessible cabins available at WOW. The Riverside Boardwalk rustic cabin can sleep four and it features ramp access up to the porch and barrier-free access through the wide front door. It includes a full kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, microwave and dishes. There’s a sleeper sofa in the downstairs living area, and a full bed in the upstairs loft. The unit lacks running water, but jugs of water are provided. It’s a comfortable place to sleep in the pines.
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Riverside Cabin at Wilderness on Wheels
Inside the Riverside Cabin
Riverside Cabin Bathroom
The ridgetop cabin is located near the top of the boardwalk, and you just can’t beat the view. You don’t have to haul your gear up the boardwalk, as you can usually access the cabin from a service road. That said, the road may be impassable for low-clearance vehicles; and if that’s the case the folks at WOW will happily transport you and your gear up to the cabin. Up on top, there’s plenty of room to park an adapted van, and ramp access up to the cabin deck.
The spacious great room includes a kitchen, dining area, and sleeping space. The kitchen boasts a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and a good selection of dishes, cookware and utensils. There’s also a large dining table near the kitchen, and a 25-inch high king-sized bed, plus a 23-inch high twin bed on the other side of the room.
The bathroom is equipped with a tub/shower combination with a hand-held showerhead and grab bars. Other features include a roll-under sink, toilet grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated) and a tub/shower chair.
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Ridgetop Cabin at Wilderness on Wheels
Beds in the Ridgetop Cabin
Kitchen Space in the Ridgetop Cabin
Bathroom in the Ridgetop Cabin
Either one of these wheelchair-accessible Colorado cabins makes an excellent choice for a mountain getaway. Reservations can be made on the WOW website (www.wildernessonwheels.org), but plan ahead as they book up fast.
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
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
Located about 1.5 miles from the entrance to Red Canyon along Scenic Highway 12, Red Canyon Village (www.redcanyonvillage.com) makes a great home base for a Utah national park road trip. It’s just a 20 minute drive to Bryce Canyon National Park so you don’t have to get a 4 AM start to beat the rush. Plus, you can easily wander over to Red Canyon to enjoy the sunset at the end of the day. And since it’s a small complex with some RV spaces and cabins, Red Canyon village is a peaceful and secluded spot to spend the night. Even better — they also have a nice wheelchair-accessible log cabin.
Red Canyon Village
Although there’s a small step up to the front office in Red Canyon Village, just call (435) 676-2243 and the clerk will gladly bring out your key. Log Cabin 12 — the accessible unit — is located a short walk from the office. And although there aren’t any paved parking spaces in the complex, there’s plenty of room to park parallel next to the accessible cabin.
There’s level access to the cabin, which boasts open beams and a wood interior. Access features include wide doorways, laminate floors, lever handles, a lowered clothing rod and good pathway access. The main room is divided into two areas; with the bedroom and living area on one side and a small kitchenette on the other side.
Living area in Cabin 12 at Red Canyon Village
The living area is furnished with a 26-inch high open-frame king-sized bed, which can be moved to allow wheelchair access on either side. Other furnishings include, a nightstand, a mirror, a luggage rack and a loveseat. The kitchenette is furnished with a table, two chairs, a microwave, a refrigerator and a coffee maker. It has everything you need for a snack, a quick meal, or a morning coffee break.
Kitchenette in Cabin 12 at Red Canyon Village
There’s barrier-free access to the bathroom, which is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a portable shower bench. It also includes a roll-under sink, and a toilet with a grab bar on the left wall (as seated).
Bathroom in Cabin 12 at Red Canyon Village
Top things off with a roomy paved front porch with plenty of room for a wheelchair, and you’re good to go. There’s also a standard picnic table on a cement pad next to the porch, with room for a wheelchair on the end. And if you forget anything, there’s level access to the The Red Canyon Indian Store and Rock Shop next door.
Barrier-Free Travel
Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Located just outside the South Entrance of Yosemite National Park (www.emerginghorizons.com/yosemite-national-park), Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite (tenayalodge.com) has long been a favorite pick for park visitors. And although this luxury property boasts a robust selection of accessible guest rooms, the wheelchair-accessible Waybound Yosemite (https://www.waybound.com/) cabins (called havens) located next door, offer guests a secluded glamping experience. Add in the Tenaya Lodge accessible bus for tours of Yosemite Valley, and you have all the ingredients for a perfect national park getaway.
The Waybound Yosemite Concept
Located a short drive from Tenaya Lodge, the Waybound Yosemite havens offer a bevy of creature comforts combined with the personalized services and perks of a full-service resort. Nestled in a sugar pine and incense cedar forest, the havens exude a dual theme of exploration and community. They inspire guests to explore Yosemite’s great outdoor areas, and then invite them to commune with their fellow travelers and share their adventures in the intimate public spaces dotted throughout the Waybound Yosemite complex.
The cornerstone of the complex is The Commons, an exclusive communal retreat with an expansive deck that offers a panoramic forest view. There’s accessible parking nearby, with plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair inside The Commons. Waybound Yosemite guests check-in at The Commons, and receive a welcome lemonade and a home-made cookie before proceeding to their havens.
The Commons also features a full service bar and restaurant which serves breakfast and dinner. Add in a coffee counter, a general store and a s’more bar in the evenings, and you have everything you could possible need.
Accessible Explorer Cabins
There are five wheelchair-accessible havens at Wayside Yosemite — Havens 9, 17, 24, 34 and 42. Haven 9, which is a premium accessible cabin is located a short walk from The Commons. Accessible parking is located next to the two-bedroom unit, with level access to the front door. Access features include wide doorways, lever handles, lowered environmental controls, good pathway access and plank floors for easy rolling.
The living area is furnished with a 11-inch high sleeper sofa and an easy chair, which are nestled in front of a cozy gas fireplace. The adjacent kitchenette is equipped with a sink, a microwave, and a refrigerator. It also boasts counter seating with two bar stools.
Living Space in Haven 9
Master Bedroom in Haven 9
Second Bedroom in Haven 9
The master bedroom is furnished with a 23-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, a chest of drawers and two night stands. There’s level access out to the roomy back deck, which offers a sweeping view of Big Creek, and is furnished with two Adirondack chairs. The second bedroom is a bit smaller, and it’s also furnished with a 23-inch high queen-sized bed. There’s room enough for a manual wheelchair on one side, but this bedroom is really best suited for a slow walker.
The spacious bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius. It’s equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower seat. Other access features include a roll-under sink with a lowered mirror, and toilet grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated).
Shower in Haven 9
Sink in Haven 9
Toilet in Haven 9
Haven 42 is also an accessible premium cabin, and Havens 17, 24 and 34 are accessible deluxe cabins. They all have the exact same access features and furnishings as Haven 9; but the deluxe cabins have a porch instead of a back deck.
Tour Yosemite Valley
Even if you don’t stay in one of the wheelchair-accessible havens at Waybound Yosemite, you’ll still want to book a tour of Yosemite with Tenaya Lodge. And the good news is, they have a luxurious wheelchair-accessible bus that can accommodate everyone.
Accessible Tenaya Lodge tour vehicle
The accessible tour bus features lift access and is equipped with wheelchair tie-downs. Wheelchair-users and slow walkers can opt to stay in their own wheelchairs or transfer to one of the comfortable bus seats. The day long Yosemite Valley tour includes stops at Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls and Valley View. And you’ll also have some time to spend in Yosemite Valley to ride the shuttle bus and explore more of the park.
You just can’t beat the convenience of a Tioga Lodge Tour, as you can dodge the traffic and parking woes, and still manage to see all of the major Yosemite Valley sites in one day. It’s the perfect choice if you have limited time in the park. So book a Tenaya Lodge tour on your next Yosemite visit, for a perfectly accessible seamless travel experience.
Barrier-Free Travel Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Located in northern Ohio, Maumee Bay State Park is a nature lovers dream; but that doesn’t mean you have to rough it when you overnight there. Quite the contrary, as Maumee Bay Lodge (www.maumeebaylodge.com/) offers a comfortable and accessible alternative. Not only can you spend the night in this wheelchair-accessible Maumee Bay cabin, but you’re also just a stone’s throw away from some great accessible trails.
Spend the Night
Billed as Ohio’s premier resort, this family friendly lakeside property features accessible parking in the lodge lot, with a barrier-free path to the lobby door. Alternatively, there’s a large drop-off area directly outside the lobby entrance. Inside, there’s wheelchair access to all the public areas, including the Water’s Edge Restaurant and the Icebreaker Lounge; and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair or scooter to the front desk.
Accessible Cabin 17 is located a short drive away, along a road that overlooks the adjacent marsh. Accessible parking is available in a paved area in front of the cottage, with a wide level walkway up to the front porch. Although there’s a small lip at the transition from the walkway to the porch, it’s doable for most folks with a little assistance. The four-bedroom deluxe cottage features wide doorways and excellent pathway access to all the first-floor rooms, with stairway access to the two upstairs bedrooms.
One downstairs bedroom is furnished with a bunk bed and a twin bed, while the other bedroom has a 24-inch high king-sized bed. Upstairs, one bedroom has a bunk bed and a double bed, and the other bedroom has a double bed. The ground floor bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench, grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. Other access features include a roll-under sink and toilet grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated). The second-floor bathroom has a low-step shower, but it lacks grab bars or the space to maneuver a wheelchair.
Shower in cabin 17 on the ground floor
Toilet and sink in Cabin 17 on the ground floor
Downstairs you’ll also find a gas fireplace, a washer and dryer, a spacious deck and a standard hot tub. Top it off with a well equipped kitchen and you have everything you need for a family getaway at this wheelchair-accessible Maumee Bay cabin.
Ground floor of cabin 17 at Maumee Bay Lodge
Explore Maumee Bay Lodge
There’s certainly no shortage of recreational activities at Maumee Bay Lodge, many of which are accessible and can be enjoyed by the whole family. There is barrier-free access to the indoor splash area, which includes seven splash features, as well as a waterfall that spills into the pool. There is also an accessible locker room nearby, which is equipped with roll-in showers.
Soft Play Area at Maumee Bay Lodge
If you’d prefer to keep your little ones active but dry, then check out the soft play area for children, which includes pirate-themed climbing features on a cushioned floor. There is level access to this brightly colored indoor play area, and plenty of room to roll around the climbing features.
Outside, there are a number of accessible options, including bicycling or hiking on one of the many bicycle trails throughout the park. Although the trails weren’t specifically designed to be accessible, most of them are level and very doable for wheelers and slow walkers.
If you want to learn a little about the native flora and fauna, head over to the Trautman Nature Center, located next to the lodge. There is barrier-free access to the building, which houses a number of interpretive exhibits detailing the nature and history of the area.
Maumee Bay Lodge boardwalk
Finally, save some time for a first-hand look at the local inhabitants on the two-mile boardwalk, just east of the lodge. There is barrier-free access to this excellent loop trail, and interpretive signs along the way. Best of all, one side of the boardwalk is pleasantly devoid of railings, so wheelers can enjoy unobstructed views of the surrounding wetlands. It’s the perfect way to top off your wheelchair-accessible Maumee Bay cabin stay.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Located near Whitehall, Montana, Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park (fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lewis-and-clark-caverns/) is named for the famous explorers, even though the closest the duo ever got to their namesake caves was the Jefferson River, some 1,400 feet below. Although the caverns are a definite highlight of the park, visitors can also enjoy the scenic drive up the mountain, and spend the night in a comfortable camping cabin at the park campground. And although caves can be problematic for people with mobility issues, some wheelchair-users and slow walkers may be able to manage a portion of the tour of this 350 million year-old cavern.
Enjoy the Drive
The best place to begin your visit to Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is at the main visitor center, which is located near the park entrance. There’s accessible parking in the large lot and level access to the building. Inside there’s ample room to maneuver a wheelchair or scooter through the galleries. Pick up a park map and learn a little bit about the geology, flora and fauna in the park.
From the main visitor center it’s about a three-mile drive to the top of the mountain, where the Cave Visitor Center is located. It’s also the starting point for the cavern tours. Take your time to stop along the way to enjoy the view from the numerous pullouts. And even if you don’t have time to stop, there are some great windshield views, going in both directions.
If you’d like to enjoy lunch al fresco, there are also a few options along the drive. The first picnic area is located close to the bottom. It features accessible parking, an accessible vault toilet, and a do-able pathway to some of the closer picnic tables. Up the road, the next picnic area has a level unstriped parking area, and level access over to several picnic tables. The remainder of the tables are located down some steps and over a bridge. And finally, there’s Vista Point. Although there are steps down to the viewing platform, there’s level access over to two shaded tables near the level parking area.
Explore the Caverns
Up at the top of the mountain, there’s accessible parking in front of the visitor center, with ramp access up to it. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the historic stone building is well preserved, and includes the original fireplace. The walls are lined with vintage photos, and there’s also a movie that’s shown throughout the day about the development of the caverns. There’s a cafe and gift shop across the parking lot, with accessible parking nearby.
Cave tour tickets are available at the kiosk next to the visitor center. Tours are only available from May 1 to September 30. Of the tour offerings, the Paradise Tour is the most accessible choice. The 1.5-hour tour requires about a mile of walking or rolling. Unlike the Classic Tour, which includes 600 stairs and a number of tight spaces, this tour is level, with the exception of about 15 steps at the end. The cavern entrance is about a quarter-mile away from the visitor center on a dirt trail covered in crushed granite.
Once inside, a 538-foot tunnel leads over to the Grand Finale Room, which contains an impressive collection of stalactites, stalagmites and columnar formations. Despite the name it’s not the end of the tour, but it’s the farthest that wheelchair-users can go. From there, several staircases with 3-4 steps each lead over to the Paradise Room, which is the official end of the tour. There are railings on the stairs, but the ground is wet. If you can’t do the stairs, you’ll just have to enjoy the Grand Finale Room while the rest of the group visits the Paradise Room. Still the formations are beautiful in the Grand Finale Room, and you can roll around and get a closer look after the crowd moves on.
Spend the Night
If you’d like to spend the night in Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, there are several accessible campground options. At the top of the list are the three accessible camping cabins. There’s parking on a level cement pad next to the Morrison Cabin, with an accessible pathway to the front door. It’s furnished with a 27-inch high double bed, and a bunk bed with a 19-inch high lower bunk. There’s also a table and four chairs, some clothing hooks, a mirror and a night stand. Outside there’s an accessible picnic table on a cement pad, a standard grill and a water spigot. This cabin also has electricity.
There’s level access to the nearby shower house, which includes an accessible toilet stall with grab bars, and a roll-in shower with grab bars, a lowered control and an accessible pay slot. There’s also a small corner seat in the shower and a slatted bench in the dressing area.
The Smith Cabin and the Woodward Cabin are also accessible, but the Smith Cabin lacks a cement parking space, and both cabins are missing picnic table pads. They are also closer to the other campsites, and lack the privacy of the Morrison Cabin.
Accessible campsite E3 includes a cement parking pad, an accessible table, a raised fire ring and a level tent space. There’s a level sidewalk to the shower house, and it’s the only campsite with electricity. Proof of disability — such as a parking placard — is required to occupy this site.
Finally, the Peregrine Tent is ramped and includes four cots and a small table. There’s also a raised fire ring and a standard table on the grass in front of the unit. It’s not close to the restrooms, and not rated as accessible like the cabins, but it may be doable for some folks.
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