Population 336
This little burg makes a memorable stop on any road trip along Minnesota’s Highway 12. Darwin’s claim to fame is that it’s home to the largest ball of twine made by one person (www.facebook.com/DarwinMNTwineball/). Housed in a Plexiglas kiosk on the corner of William and 1st Streets (just look for the water tower), the massive ball weighs 8.7 tons and stands 11 feet tall. It was made by Francis Johnson in his basement, and later moved to downtown Darwin. There’s also a small museum in the former railroad station, which is located right behind the famous twine ball. There’s ramp access up to the building, which features information about Francis Johnson, and includes some of his prized possessions. It also houses some old town artifacts, railroad timetables and photos. And don’t forget to pick up a twine ball hoodie in the small gift shop.
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 Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Population 336
