Although yurts have been around for centuries, they’ve recently gained popularity as a camping alternative. Historically used by nomads on the steppes of Mongolia and Siberia, these round tents with wooden frames are popping up at campgrounds and state parks across America. The modern versions, which include creature comforts such as electricity, wood floors and even propane heaters, are a great way to enjoy the great outdoors without pitching a tent. So pack the car and get ready to enjoy these two wheelchair-accessible Colorado yurts.
Snow Mountain Ranch
Red Fox Yurt at Snow Mountain
Operated by the YMCA of the Rockies, Snow Mountain Ranch (www.ymcarockies.org) is located 80 miles west of Denver, in Granby, Colorado. The 5,000-acre ranch offers a number of lodging choices, including campsites, cabins, lodge rooms and yurts.
The yurt village is located a short drive from the main lodge, and there’s plenty of room between the yurts for maximum privacy. There’s accessible parking in front of the accessible yurt, and ramp access up to the front door. The yurt includes a wide door, wood floor and plenty of room to navigate in a wheelchair. It’s furnished with a 23-inch high open-framed queen-sized bed, two sets of bunk beds, a table and chairs, a microwave and a refrigerator. And if you’d prefer to cook outside, there’s an accessible grill and a picnic table on a cement pad near the front door.
There’s also an accessible shower room in the nearby shower house. It features a toilet with grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated), and a low-step shower with a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. There’s plenty of room to roll around in the private bathroom, which also has a locking door. Outside there’s a large sink to rinse off your dishes, and a emergency phone connected directly to the office. All in all the access is pretty good, and bedding and towels are included, which isn’t necessarily the case at all yurts.
Inside the Red Fox Yurt at Snow Mountain
Golden Gate Canyon
Yurt 1 at Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible Colorado yurts is Golden Gate Canyon State Park, (cpw.state.co.us/state-parks/golden-gate-canyon-state-park), which is located about 30 miles northwest of Denver. The accessible yurt is in Reverend’s Ridge Campground, which is pretty easy to find. As you approach the park, head north on Highway 119, then turn on Gap Road and follow the signs to the campground.
Yurt 1 – also known as Bobcat – features private parking next to the yurt, with ramp access up to the roomy front porch. There’s good access inside too, with plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair. It’s furnished with a 23-inch high double bed, a twin bed, a pair of bunk beds, and a table and chairs. There are lights, electrical outlets and a propane heater in the yurt, but all cooking must be done at the fire ring outside. There’s also an accessible picnic table near the fire ring. And as is the case with most yurts, you need to bring along your bedding and towels.
An accessible restroom is just a short level walk away, and the shower house is located on the other side of the campground. The pay showers include a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench in both the men’s and women’s shower houses. There are also accessible toilet stalls with room to maneuver a wheelchair, in both shower houses.
Golden Gate Canyon is a great place to spend a night or two, and the large deck on the yurt is the perfect spot to relax after a day in the park. As an added bonus, you just can’t beat the night sky in this neck of the woods.
Inside Yurt 1 at Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
National Parks are a popular vacation choice. Unfortunately that means some of the more popular ones are now more crowded than ever. So how do you beat the crowds? Well you can always get an early start or visit in the off season, but to be honest that’s not always possible. Alternatively you might want to visit one of these lesser known national parks for a more relaxed experience. Not only do they all offer some scenic natural beauty, but they are also good choices for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
Isle Royale National Park
Rock Harbor Lighthouse in Isle Royale National Park
emerginghorizons.com/an-isle-royale-wheelchair-accessible-retreat At the top of the list of lesser known national parks for wheelchair-users is Isle Royale National Park. Located in the middle of Lake Superior, there’s a wheelchair-accessible ferry that takes visitors to this remote national park. And once you get to Isle Royale National Park there’s even a cozy lodge with a wheelchair-accessible room.
North Cascades National Park
Accessible Pier on Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park
emerginghorizons.com/the-freestone-inn-a-wheelchair-accessible-north-cascades-retreat Located in far Northern Washington, North Cascades National Park offers some scenic drives, a couple of accessible trails and even a campground with an accessible campsite. And although there’s no lodging in the park, there’s an upscale lodge with a spacious wheelchair-accessible room located near the eastern gateway.
Great Basin National Park
Wheeler Peak Overlook in Big Basin National Park
emerginghorizons.com/escape-the-crowds-in-great-basin-national-park Definitely one of the lesser known national parks, Great Basin National Park is located just off the “loneliest road in America” in Eastern Nevada. Enjoy the scenic drive with accessible overlooks, take a hike on a forest boardwalk or explore Lehman Caves on an accessible tour.
Pinnacles National Park
Prewett Point Trail in Pinnacles National Park
emerginghorizons.com/pinnacles-national-park/ Pinnacles National Park is a great place to spot the endangered California Condor. There are also a few accessible trails, scenic drives and some comfortable accessible tent cabins at this California national park.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The Pinery Trail in Guadalupe Mountains National Park
emerginghorizons.com/discover-historic-guadalupe-mountains-national-park/ Located halfway between El Paso and Carlsbad Caverns, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is the site of the historic Pinery Stage Stop. There are a few accessible trails in the park, and the Frijole Ranch site is also worth a visit.
Voyageurs National Park
Tour Boat on Rainy Lake in Voyageurs National Park
emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-voyageurs-national-park Voyageurs National Park is located in Northern Minnesota, just shy of the Canadian border. It’s filled with accessible trails, but one of the best ways to see the park is to take an accessible boat tour on Rainy Lake.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Tomichi Point in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-black-canyon-of-the-gunnison/ Known as America’s Other Grand Canyon, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has far fewer visitors than its Arizona counterpart. It offers a scenic drive with some gorgeous views, and a campground with a wheelchair-accessible campsite.
Big Bend National Park
The Rio Grande in Big Bend National Park
emerginghorizons.com/enjoy-a-spring-road-trip-to-big-bend-national-park/ Billed as being more than 100 miles from the nearest freeway, shopping center or hospital, Big Bend National Park is bordered by the Rio Grande on the south. This expansive park features scenic drives, accessible desert trails, drop dead gorgeous views and an accessible in-park lodge.
Redwood National and State Parks
The Lost Man Creek Trail in Redwood National Park, California
emerginghorizons.com/redwood-national-and-state-parks/ This California national park also includes three state parks. Its easy to spend a week exploring trails lined with giant redwoods.. Additionally, there’s a loaner track chair available at Kuchel Visitor Center for use on Freshwater Beach. They also have accessible campsites and cabins in several of the parks, so it’s easy to sleep under the redwoods.
Lassen National Park
Lilly Lake in Mount Lassen National Park
emerginghorizons.com/lassen-volcanic-national-park/ Last but not least on our list of lesser known national parks for wheelchair-users is Lassen Volcanic National Park. Located in Northern California, this remote gem offers a variety of accessible trails and thermal features, as well as some accessible camping cabins. It’s a great place to get away from the city and truly enjoy Mother Nature.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Summer is a great time to hit the road. The days are long, the weather is good and the roads are clear. Add in some gorgeous windshield views along the way, and a scenic drive is the perfect summertime activity. With that in mind, here are some favorite scenic summer drives to add to your vacation list.
Pikes Peak Highway
Pikes Peak Highway
Located just west of Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak Highway (emerginghorizons.com/drive-the-pikes-peak-highway/) tops the list of scenic summer drives. The tollgate is located just off Highway 24 in Cascade; but be forewarned that advance reservations are required to drive this scenic route. The 20-mile drive winds up to the 14,115-foot summit, with some drop-dead gorgeous views along the way. Some good wheelchair-accessible stops include Crystal Reservoir, Halfway Picnic Area and Glen Cove. Up at the top there’s another impressive view, along with a cafeteria, gift shop and some interpretive exhibits. A must-see on any Colorado trip.
North Cascades Scenic Highway
Happy Creek Forest Walk
This scenic drive traverses part of North Cascades National Park (emerginghorizons.com/barrier-free-travel-washington-national-parks-for-wheelers-and-slow-walkers/) in Northern Washington. Closed during the winter, the route runs from Winthrop to Rockport, crosses Washington Pass and continues past glacier-fed lakes and old growth forests. There’s no shortage of great windshield views along the way, but suggested wheelchair-accessible stops include the the Happy Creek Forest Walk, Sterling Munro Boardwalk and the Trail of the Cedars. And don’t forget to stop at the Skagit General Store in Newhalem for some delicious homemade Skagit fudge.
acier-yellowstone-and-grand-teton-national-parks-for-wheelchair-users-and-slow-walkers/), scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road is not for the faint of heart. It climbs up a winding mountain route to scenic Logan Pass, with beautiful views along the way. That said, this two-lane road is filled with hair-pin turns, dramatic drop-offs and expansive views of the glacier carved valley. Wheelchair-accessible stops along the way include the Trail of the Cedars, Lake Mc Donald and Logan Pass. And there’s no shortage of scenic pullouts to stop and enjoy the views.
Chinook Scenic Byway
Whispering Hemlocks Loop Trail in Federation Forest State Park
Another mountain route, the Chinook Scenic Byway (emerginghorizons.com/drive-the-chinook-scenic-byway/) traverses the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and crosses Chinook pass. This route also winds in to the eastern portion of Mount Rainier National Park and offers some spectacular ridgetop views. Notable wheelchair-accessible highlights along the way include Federation Forest State Park, Sunrise Point and Tipsoo Lake. And don’t miss a stop at Whistlin’ Jack’s Outpost and the Naches Trading Post on the east side.
The International Selkirk Loop
Chickadee Trail in the Kootenai Wildlife Refuge
A classic drive, the International Selkirk Loop (emerginghorizons.com/the-international-selkirk-loop-for-wheelchair-users-and-slow-walkers/) winds through two states and two countries. It begins in Northeastern Washington, and heads through Northern Idaho, then up to British Columbia, before it returns to Washington. This 280-mile loop is definitely a multi-day trip, with many scenic stops along the way. Highlights of the route include Kootenai Wildlife Refuge, Creston Wildlife Management Area, the Mill Pond Historic Site and Sweet Creek Falls. And don’t forget the Kalispel Tribe’s buffalo herd. Enjoy this scenic jaunt through the Selkirk Range.
Mount Hood Infinity Loop
Bridge of the Gods on the Hood River
As its name implies, the Mount Hood Infinity Loop (emerginghorizons.com/drive-the-scenic-mount-hood-infinity-loop/), snakes around the namesake mountain. This Northern Oregon drive runs along the Columbia River and travels south through the Dalles orchards, before it climbs up Mount Hood and circles back up north. Along the way there’s a Bigfoot exhibit, a few wheelchair-accessible hikes, some beautiful Mount Hood views and several fun museums. And if you’d like to take your time, you can even overnight in a wheelchair-accessible treehouse.
Columbia River Waterfall Corridor
Latourell Falls
Bridal Veil Falls
Multnomath Falls
Horsetail Falls
A classic drive, the Columbia River Waterfall Corridor (emerginghorizons.com/explore-the-historic-columbia-river-highway-waterfall-corridor/) winds along a two-lane road in Northern Oregon and passes a number of scenic waterfalls. It can be easily completed in one day and it’s also a favorite for bicyclists. Although the scenery is great along the route, several wheelchair-accessible waterfalls are worth a stop. These include Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Multnomah Falls and Horsetail Falls. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy your meal alfresco at one of the picnic areas along the way.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Built in 1918 by Spencer Brown, The Broadmoor (www.broadmoor.com) has long been know as a five-star luxury retreat. Over the years this Grand Dame of the Rockies has undergone numerous additions and upgrades, and today this historic property also offers excellent access for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. Add in a very attentive staff that offers top notch service, and you can see why this property is a favorite choice for folks who want to explore all that Colorado Springs has to offer.
Spend the Night
With nearly 800 rooms, two iconic golf courses, a stunning array of of restaurants and some of the most beautifully manicured grounds in the state, you won’t want for anything once you check-in to The Broadmoor. There’s level access to the main lobby, and you don’t have to worry about parking as the valet takes care of that.
The most accessible rooms are located in the west section of the property, one of the newer areas at the resort. Accessible room 4259 is on the second floor, a short walk away from the main lobby. There’s elevator access up to the room, and good pathway access in the hallway.
Access features in the room include wide doorways, lever handles and excellent pathway access. It’s furnished with a 25-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, two nightstands, a dresser, a desk with a chair, a sofa and two side chairs. And even with all that furniture there’s still plenty of room to maneuver the largest wheelchair or scooter in the room.
The bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius and includes a roll-in shower with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. And if you need a portable shower chair, just let them know when you make your reservation, and it will be there when you arrive. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and there’s also a a roll-under sink in the bathroom.
Add in a large walk-in closet, a separate vanity area and a small refrigerator, and you have a very comfortable and accessible room. And with the surrounding garden framing the room, it’s also a verdant retreat.
Room 4259 at the Broadmoor
Room 4259 at the Broadmoor (view 2)
Toilet and Shower in Room 4259 at the Broadmoor
Vanity in Room 4259 at the Broadmoor
Explore the Grounds
There’s no shortage of amenities on-site, including a wide variety of dining choices. Grab a steak at La Taverne, enjoy some fish and chips at the Golden Bee Pub, or chow down on Italian fare at Ristorante Del Lago. If you’d like a family friendly venue, check out Play at the Broadmoor which offers casual fare fun games and bowling. And then there’s the Lake Terrace Dining Room for a relaxed breakfast, and a number of casual cafes and lounges for a quick bite. No matter what you crave, rest assured all the on-property eateries are wheelchair-accessible.
Both the indoor pool and the outdoor infinity pool have lifts, and there is also level access to the spa. The beautiful manicured grounds feature paved wheelchair-accessible pathways; and there’s also an accessible footbridge which crosses Cheyenne Lake and connects the east and west wings of the property. There are lots of little nooks and crannies to explore, with benches, tables and lounge chairs dotted throughout the property
Best of all, you just won’t want for anything during your stay. The staff is quite accommodating, and they can arrange for additional medical equipment with advance arrangements. They truly have gone above and beyond in the access department at this property. And that’s reason enough to choose The Broadmoor.
Barrier-Free Travel Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Many US National Parks offer a variety of wheelchair-accessible lodging options within their borders. That said, sometimes it’s just not possible to snag a reservation at some of those popular properties. And then there are those remote national parks that don’t offer any in-park lodgings. The solution? Consider booking a property in a national park gateway city. With that in mind, here are some wheelchair-accessible lodging picks located close to some favorite US national parks.
The Jim Bridger Cabins in Gardiner is at the top of our wheelchair-accessible lodging list. Located near the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, this complex features a wheelchair-accessible two-bedroom cabin. It includes a compact kitchen, a living room with a fireplace and large bathroom with a roll-in shower. And there’s even elevator access to the top deck, which offers some great star gazing opportunities.
The Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone are located in West Yellowstone, just a short drive from the West Entrance to the park. They have two accessible one-bedroom cabins which each have a small kitchen, a living room with a fireplace, and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. They also include a spacious front porch and several public fire rings where guests can whip up some s’mores.
Located across from the railroad station in West Yellowstone, this historic property was built in 1910 by the Great Northern Railroad. Today it still boasts an old world ambiance but it also includes a nice accessible room with a roll-in shower. It’s a great property for railroad buffs, and it’s just a few minutes from the park entrance.
West Glacier Village has two wheelchair-accessible cabins, which each have a full kitchen, a large living room and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. And if you’d like to let someone else do the cooking, the complex is just a short walk away from West Glacier Village, where you’ll find a few eateries and shops.
Zion National Park
AutoCamp Zion
emerginghorizons.com/autocamp-zion-excels-in-accessibility/ This unique lodging complex, which offers a collection of upscale Airstream camping trailers, is located about 20 miles from the South Entrance to Zion National Park. The accessible cabins feature a small kitchen and living area and a bathroom with a large roll-in shower. Add in some nice public spaces, a few fire rings and a swimming pool with a lift, and you have all the essential vacation elements.
This charming little complex is located along Highway 12 about 15 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park. It includes an accessible cabin with a small kitchen, and a nicely equipped bathroom with a roll-in shower. It’s also got a roomy front porch and a nearby picnic table.
There are no lodges inside of Arches National Park, but Slackline Moab is located in its namesake town, about four miles away from the national park entrance. It has a variety of accessible rooms. Some rooms have roll-in showers, while others have tub/shower combinations. Add in a gear shop, a café, and a nice fire circle, and you have a comfortable and accessible property.
Located near the South Entrance of Yosemite National Park on Highway 41, Waybound Yosemite includes a number of top-drawer wheelchair-accessible cabins, called “havens”. They are nestled in a sugar pine forest next to Tenaya Lodge, and they are available in a variety of bed configurations. The havens also include a kitchen, living area and a small deck. Add in the clubhouse and a few firepits and you have everything you need in an accessible cabin. And guests have access to all the facilities at Tenaya Lodge.
Like its sister property in Zion, AutoCamp Yosemite features comfortable accommodations in upscale travel trailers. It’s located near the Arch Rock Entrance to the park, on Highway 140. The complex includes several accessible units that have a kitchen, living area and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. Add in a spacious deck to enjoy the sunset and you have a very relaxing lodging choice.
This North Cascades retreat features an accessible guestroom with a roll-in shower and a porch with a view. It’s located in the hamlet of Mazama on the eastern side of the park. Along with the creature comforts, the lodge borders a small scenic lake. And if you get a hankering for a pizza, there’s a parlor within walking distance.
Named after a local bush pilot this two-bedroom home features excellent access and has one bathroom with an oversized roll-in shower. It’s located just five miles from the Nisqually Entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, and it has some pleasant outdoor spaces, a fully stocked kitchen and even a pool table in the game room. A comfortable and accessible find.
Operated by the YMCA of the Rockies, this complex includes hotel-style accommodations nestled in a Ponderosa Pine forest, about three miles from the Beaver Meadows Entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. The larger accessible rooms are a great option for families as they have multiple beds, plenty of space and large bathrooms with roll-in showers. Add in some accessible public areas, and a nice cafeteria and you have everything you need for a comfortable – and accessible – stay.
Last but certainly not least on our list of wheelchair-accessible lodging picks, is this collection of Alaska properties located near Denali National Park. Although there are no lodges within the park these three nearby properties have a nice selection of accessible rooms. And as an added bonus, some properties even have a wheelchair-accessible shuttle to and from the park. They all make a great home-base for a Denali visit.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Tomichi Point in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Although Grand Canyon National Park (emerginghorizons.com/the-grand-canyon-for-wheelers-and-slow-walkers/) is one the country’s most popular national parks, it’s not the only spectacular gorge managed by the National Park Service. Quite the contrary; in fact little known Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm) boasts some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rocks and craggiest spires in North America. In contrast to the 21-mile wide Grand Canyon, this Colorado chasm is just nine miles across. Couple that with 2,000-foot canyon walls which drop almost vertically to the Gunnison River, and the result is an eye-popping view. And although the canyon itself isn’t wheelchair-accessible, the best views are had from scenic overlooks along the rim, many of which are doable for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
A Scenic Drive
The best way to experience the natural beauty of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is to take the seven-mile scenic drive along the south rim. Just follow Highway 50 west from Montrose, then continue along Highway 347 until it dead ends at the park entrance.
You’ll get your first view of the canyon at Tomichi Point, which is near the entrance, just past the campground. There is accessible parking near the rim, with level access out to the overlook. Not only is this a nice canyon view, but if you’re lucky you’ll also get a glimpse of the hikers on the aptly name Rim Rock Trail below.
Be sure and stop in at the Visitor Center, which is just up the road. There’s plenty of accessible parking there, and there’s level access to a very clean accessible restroom. Inside the visitor center, there is barrier-free access to the theater and good pathway access around the interpretive exhibits. There’s also level access to a large deck which offers an impressive canyon view.
The next accessible stop at Black Canyon of the Gunnison is at Pulpit Rock Overlook. Accessible parking is available on the road, near a hard-packed dirt trail that leads out to the lower overlook and offers a sweeping view of the Gunnison River. There are a few bumps at the beginning of the trail, but it’s doable for most folks. To get to the upper overlook you have to go down some steps and then up a very steep ramp, but the river view is much better from the lower vantage point. There is also an accessible restroom at this stop.
Enjoy the Views
Chasm View in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Chasm View, which is the next stop on the route, offers the most impressive canyon view. Accessible parking is available near the main trail out to the overlook, but there are nine steps down to the viewpoint. The accessible trail, which is located to the left of the main trail, is longer, but there are no steps along the way. From this viewpoint you’ll get a dramatic view down into the chasm with the Gunnison River below.
Sunset View, which is just up the road, is a great spot to sit and enjoy the sunset (hence the name). There is accessible parking near the accessible sidewalk out to the overlook. Here you’ll find two picnic tables, including one that is accessible. There’s a lower overlook to the right, but there are 15 steps along the route and some rocks and roots on the trail. Still, it’s hard to beat the view from the picnic tables. There’s also an accessible restroom in the parking lot.
Picnic Tables at Sunset Point in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Last but not least, don’t forget to stop at High Point, at the end of the road. Although the one-and-a half-mile trail to the overlook isn’t accessible, it’s still worth a stop. There’s accessible parking in the lot, and a dirt path at the far end that leads out to an accessible picnic table. It’s a much nicer spot to picnic than Sunset View, and since it’s away from the trailhead, it’s pretty isolated. Even if you’ve already eaten, this is a good place to take a quiet break before you head back. As an added bonus, the windshield views are totally different on the return trip.
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.
Nicknamed the “Switzerland of America”, Ridgeway State Park (cpw.state.co.us/state-parks/ridgway-state-park) is one of Colorado’s often overlooked gems. Located off of Highway 550, about 15 miles south of Montrose, it offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, and borders a five-mile stretch of the Uncompahgre River. And the good news is, thanks to a bevy of accessible trails, a loaner track wheelchair, a water wheelchair and even a wheelchair-accessible paddleboard, it’s now possible to plan a wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park getaway. Top it off with spending a night or two in a wheelchair-accessible yurt, and you have all the ingredients for a perfectly accessible outdoor excursion.
Explore the Forest
One of the largest areas of the park, Dutch Charlie, is the perfect spot to enjoy a wheelchair-accessible Ridgeway State Park visit. It includes the visitor center, several accessible trails, an accessible beach area, and a campground.
There’s accessible parking in front of the visitor center, which is located just off of Highway 550. The visitor center features level access to a variety of interpretive exhibits, a ranger information desk and accessible restrooms.
Overlook Trail at Ridgway State Park
There are two accessible trails near the visitor center. The Overlook is a short 600-foot paved trail that leads over to a vantage point that offers a good view of the Ridgway Reservoir. The Forest Discovery Trail also begins near the visitor center. This .6-mile hard-packed dirt loop is wide and fairly level; however there are some rough spots and ruts along the way. Additionally it can get pretty muddy after a storm, but it’s usually passable in a loaner track chair.
Forest Discovery Trail at Ridgway State Park
Two loaner track chairs are available at the visitor center, however advance reservations are required. Staff members are not allowed to assist with transfers to the track chair; and a park volunteer must accompany all track chair-users on their excursions. The excursions can include the Forest Discovery Trail, as well as several other trails in the park. Track chairs must be reserved at least one week in advance on the park website, or by calling (970) 626-5822. It’s a great way for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to explore the park, but plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Bluebird on the Discovery Forest Trail at Ridgway State Park
Hit the Beach
Mobi-mat at Mears Bay BeachBeach at Ridgway State Park
If you prefer the beach to the forest, them head on over to Mear’s Bay, which is just a short drive from the visitor center. There’s accessible parking near the marina, with level access over to the office and the accessible picnic tables on the adjacent deck There’s also ramp access down to the beach, which has a 300-foot Mobi-Mat to the water.
If you’d like to go into the water, a loaner MobiChair is available to use at the Mears Bay swimming beach. This floating wheelchair can travel over the sand or on the Mobi-Mats and go into the water. It is not self propelling, so users need someone to push the MobiChair.
And for more water fun, check out the loaner SOLFiesta wheelchair-accessible paddleboard. This massive paddleboard measures 15 feet six inches long by five feet six inches wide. There are tie-downs for a wheelchair in front, and room for a passenger behind it. And there’s still plenty of room in back for the requisite guide who maneuvers the paddleboard.
There’s no charge to use the Mobi Chair or the accessible paddleboard, but advance reservations are a must. They can be made on the park website or by calling (970) 626-5822. And just like the track chair reservations, they must be made at least a week in advance.
Finally, if you’d like a short walk while you’re in the area, then check out the Mears Bay Trail. This one-mile paved trail has a maximum grade of 4% , and runs alongside the lake. It’s not really too scenic in dry years when the lake is low, but if it’s a normal rainfall year it’s very pleasant.
Spend the Night
Yurt 10 in Dakota Terraces Campground at Ridgway State Park
Top off your wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park adventure with an overnight stay in the park. Book a night or two at the accessible yurt in the Dakota Terraces Campground, which is located midway between Mear’s Bays and the visitor center,
Accessible yurt 10 is located in Loop A of the campground. This round canvas structure offers accessible parking in front, with a paved pathway to the front porch. Access features include a threshold ramp, a wide entrance door, and good pathway access throughout the yurt.
The yurt is furnished with two queen futons (bring your own bedding), a bunk bed and a table and chairs. The kitchenette has a small counter, and it includes a microwave and a refrigerator. And although there isn’t a bathroom in the yurt, it does have electricity, an overhead light and a stove for heat. Outside, there is an accessible picnic table, a grill on a cement pad, and a 15-inch high tent platform.
Inside Yurt 10
An accessible restroom is located next door, with accessible parking in front of the building. Accessible pay showers are available in the camper services building near the beginning of Loop A.
Toilet and Showers in the Camper Services Building
So save the trouble of pitching a tent and give yurting a try for a night – or two – in Ridgway State Park. It’s a comfortable and affordable way to extend your visit to wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Population 4,070
Located in Southern Colorado, about 50 miles north of the New Mexico border, Monte Vista is named for its spectacular mountain view. And although it’s a popular road trip stopover town, the big draw is is actually located on Highway 15 just south of town — the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge (www.fws.gov/refuge/monte_vista/). During the spring and fall thousands of Sandhill Cranes and migrating waterfowl descend on the surrounding wetlands, while song birds, shore birds and water birds nest there in the summer. Although most of the refuge can be seen in a car on the 2.5-mile auto loop, there’s also a short accessible trail near the entrance. This wide level pathway winds alongside the marsh and continues for 100 yards, and ends at an accessible overlook. It’s a nice spot to get some fresh air, and if you’d like to dine al fresco, there’s also a picnic table located near the trailhead.
Cano’s Castle is constructed almost entirely of beer cans. Owner Donald “Cano” Espinoza actually claims that God constructed this masterpiece. The main structure — a four story house (the king) — was damaged by a fire in 2022. The towers (the queen and the rook) survived undamaged, and they are covered in beer cans, hubcaps and scrap metal. The whole property is surrounded by a structure called the crown, and everything is covered in shiny — sometimes blinding — scrap metal. According to Espinoza, this monument serves as a thank-you to the powers-that-be for sparing his life during the Vietnam War. He also notes that he received his inspiration for the structures from Vitamin Mary Jane and Jesus. It gets pretty strange after that, and let’s just say that if you happen to run into Cano, he will give you an earful. Cano’s Castle is located on State Street, between 10th Avenue and 11th Avenue, about three blocks east of Highway 285. Although it’s not wheelchair-accessible, there’s room to pull of and take a few photos.
