National park lodges are more than just places to rest your head. Not only are they part of the essential infrastructure of our national parks, but they’re also filled with history . In fact, more than a few national park lodges are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And the good news is, the bulk of these historic properties have added access upgrades over the years, so wheelchair-users and slow walkers can also enjoy them. Thinking about staying in a national park lodge on your next road trip? Here are a few more benefits of staying “in park”.
Beat the Crowds
The best way to beat the crowds at national parks is to arrive early in the morning, and that’s much easier to do if you stay overnight in the park. The crowds drastically increase after 10 AM, when a lot of tour buses also appear. For example in Grand Canyon National Park, it’s almost impossible to enjoy Hermit Road during peak season in the afternoons. The shuttle buses are full and private vehicles are not permitted along the route. If however you get an early start, you’ll have a much more pleasant experience. Even better, it’s just a short walk to a shuttle bus stop from any of the park lodges, and five of the lodges have wheelchair-accessible rooms.
Nature Surrounds You
There’s just no comparison between staying at a chain hotel in a gateway city and bedding down in a national park lodge surrounded by nature. How can you beat opening your drapes to a view of Half Dome, or enjoying the red rock beauty of Zion Canyon from your front porch?
And Then There’s the Wildlife!
No place is off limits to the native wildlife in national parks. For example, at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel in Yellowstone National Park, it’s not unusual to see the resident elk graze outside the accessible cabins. It’s an especially impressive sight during the rut, when the large bulls heard their harems. And you’ll never forget the bugling cry of the bulls.
First Dibs on Dinner Reservations
The more popular restaurants in some national parks require dinner reservations, and first dibs on those go to lodge guests. For example in Yellowstone, reservations at the Old Faithful Inn, Grant Village and the Lake Yellowstone Hotel are available 60 days in advance to lodge guests; while folks staying elsewhere can only make same day reservations.
Location, Location, Location
Let’s face it, some national parks are just too far from the city to make a daily commute, so staying at an in-park lodge is the only option. Take Isle Royale National Park for example. It’s located on an island in the middle of Lake Superior, and since it’s a four-hour ferry ride from the mainland, staying overnight just makes sense. Fortunately Rock Harbor Lodge has a comfortable wheelchair-accessible room.
Competitive Pricing
Last but certainly not least, most of the popular national parks have rooms in all price ranges, and some national park concessionaires even have programs in place that offer competitively priced rooms. For example, Curry Village in Yosemite National Park offers affordable family accommodations, while the luxurious Ahwahnee offers high end rooms with prices to match. And over in Yellowstone National Park, the Xanterra Travel Collection prices a good chunk of their in-park rooms at rates comparable to those found in the surrounding gateway communities. So yes, you can book a national park lodge at gateway community prices, but you do have to book early to take advantage of these great bargains.
Known as the “Crown of the Continent” because the Continental Divide bisects the park, Glacier National Park encompasses more than a million acres of coniferous forests, alpine meadows, pristine lakes and glacier-carved peaks. The wildlife in the park is just as diverse at the landscape that supports it, and it includes elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and one of the largest remaining grizzly populations in the lower 48 states.
Insider Tips
A well kept secret along Going-to-the-Sun Road, Red Rock Point offers a beautiful view of McDonald Creek cascading down over the massive red rocks. The turnout is located about a mile north of the Trail of the Cedars on the left side of the road. Keep your eyes peeled when you get close, as there is absolutely no signage to mark the overlook. There’s accessible parking near a hard-packed dirt path that leads .06 miles out to a boardwalk viewing platform.
Although the historic Red Buses of Glacier National Park are not wheelchair-accessible, Xanterra Parks and Resorts has two wheelchair-accessible vehicles in their. The lift-equipped buses have roll-up plastic flaps on the windows, and passengers get a full view of everything around them, thanks to an on-board camera and monitors Even better — the accessible vehicle is booked solely for your party, so you get a private tour at the regular tour price.
In addition to an entrance fee or a park pass, a day use entrance reservation is also required for Glacier National Park visitors during peak visitation periods in the summer. Entrance reservations are currently required for the West Entrance Station, the Camas Entrance Station and Many Glacier Valley. That said the park adjusts the system annually, so check the park website for the most current information. Entrance reservations are not available at the park. They must be purchased at recreation.gov in advance. Visitors without an entrance reservation will not be admitted.
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.”
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
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.
Bedroom in suite 104
Kitchen & living area in suite 104
Bathroom in suite 104
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 Travel
Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
There’s no better place to kick back and enjoy Mother Nature than in Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains. And although there’s certainly no shortage of accessible hotels in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville, the best way to really experience the Smoky Mountains is to rent a fully-equipped cabin. So be it a cozy couples getaway or a large family reunion — and everything in between — we have you covered with these wheelchair-accessible Smoky Mountain cabins.
Eagles View
The view from Eagles View
www.awesomemountainvacations.com/eagles-view
The Sevierville address of Eagles View is very misleading, as it’s actually located on a Wears Valley ridge top, midway between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. And it’s within spitting distance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This one-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin also features a loft; and although it can accommodate up to five people, it’s still perfectly comfortable for a couple.
Parking is available in a paved level spot next to the cabin with ramp access to the wrap around porch. There’s level access to the cabin, and good pathway access throughout the first floor. The living room features a 14-inch high queen-sized sleeper sofa, an easy chair, a TV and a gas fireplace; while the kitchen is equipped with a stove, oven, dishwasher, lowered microwave, full-size refrigerator, and a stackable washer and dryer. Top it off with a dining table with four chairs, and a bar with two high chairs and you have just about everything you need.
The first-floor bedroom is furnished with a 23-inch high open-frame king-sized bed with wheelchair access on the right side (as you face it). The adjacent bathroom has a full five-foot turning radius and is equipped with 36-inch square roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. The toilet is located in a 42-inch wide alcove with grab bars on both sides, and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink.
There’s also a hot tub on the front porch, but you need to be able to navigate two steps to use it. All in all access is nicely done here, and you just can’t beat the view from the front porch.
Eagles View Cabin
Great room at Eagles View
Ground Floor bedroom at Eagles View
Toilet and shower at Eagles View
Vanity in bat at Eagles View
Above the Clouds
Above the Clouds Cabin
www.awesomemountainvacations.com/above-the-clouds
Above the Clouds is located down the road from Eagles View, and it features the same expansive ridgetop view. This three-bedroom cabin includes four bathrooms and it can sleep up to 10 people. And the same folks that own Eagles View also own this gem, and great attention has be paid to wheelchair access.
There’s level access to the ramps which lead up to the first and second floor decks. From there level pathways lead to the spacious inside areas. The second floor has an accessible bedroom that’s furnished with a 26-inch high open-frame king-sized bed; and the adjacent bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench, a hand-held showerhead, shower and toilet grab bars and a roll-under sink.
The cabin features the same amenities as Eagles View; and it’s filled with homey touches, so you never feel like you’re in a rental. The view from the deck is simply awesome. There’s also a 150-foot walkway in front of the cabin, which offers an equally appealing valley view. And you just can’t beat the location, as it’s just minutes away from Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Bedroom in Above the Clouds Cabin
Shower in Above the Clouds Cabin
Sink and toilet in Above the Clouds Cabin
Sweet Memories
Sweet Memories Cabin
www.airbnb.com/rooms/49978126
Next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible Smoky Mountain cabins is Sweet Memories,
which is located near Dollywood in the Bear Cove Fall Resort. This two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin can sleep six, and it makes a good choice for two couples or a family with kids in tow.
There’s plenty of parking on a level cement pad in front of the cabin, with barrier-free access over to the front door. Inside, the great room separates two one-bedroom suites, and there’s good pathway access on the wood floors throughout this single-story unit.
The great room features a 12-inch high king-sized sleeper sofa, a love seat, an easy chair, a TV and a traditional wood-burning fireplace. The adjacent kitchen is outfitted with a stove, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, toaster, coffee maker and even a blender. It also includes everything you need to whip up a gourmet meal, including a full set of pots, pans, dishes, glassware and utensils. Additionally there’s a dining table with four chairs, as well as a washer and dryer in the unit.
The bedrooms are each furnished with a 25-inch high open-frame king-sized bed. One bedroom has a fireplace, while the other has a Jacuzzi tub. The adjacent bathrooms are mirror images of one another, and they are each equipped with a low step (three inch) tiled shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a portable shower chair. The toilet grab bars are located on the right and back walls (as seated) in one unit, and on the opposite side in the other. Both bathrooms also have a roll-under sink.
This property is a good choice for many wheelchair-users and slow walkers, as even though the shower has a small step, there’s also ample room to transfer to the portable shower chair.
Great Room in the Sweet Memories Cabin
Great Room in the Sweet Memories Cabin (view 2)
Bedroom in the Sweet Memories Cabin
Sink and toilet in the Sweet Memories Cabin
Shower in the Sweet Memories Cabin
George’s Cabin
George’s Cabin in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
eaglesridge.com/pigeon-forge-cabin/er309-georges
Located in Pigeon Forge, George’s Cabin is next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible Smoky Mountain cabins. It features five bedrooms and four bathrooms and can sleep up to 14 people. This cabin is a good choice for a two-family getaway, as the two ground-floor bedrooms can accommodate the parents, while the kids can bunk upstairs.
There’s ramped access from the parking area to the rocking chair-lined front porch, and level access into cabin. The first floor of the cabin is wheelchair-accessible, with plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair through the great room, kitchen and the accessible bedroom suite. The great room is furnished with a comfortable sofa and love seat, and includes a gas fireplace and a TV. The dining area features a table with eight chairs and the fully equipped kitchen includes a stove, microwave, dishwasher and a full-size refrigerator. There’s also a washer and dryer on the first floor.
The accessible first-floor bedroom is furnished with a 25-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides. The adjacent bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a portable shower bench. The toilet has a grab bar on the back wall, and an optional toilet seat riser with one grab bar on each side. The bathroom also has a roll-under sink. And there’s level access out to the spacious deck, which features a gas grill and a standard hot tub with steps.
Dining and Great Room in George’s Cabin
Kitchen in George’s Cabin
Bedroom in George’s Cabin
Bathroom in George’s Cabin
Big Elk Lodge
Entry to the Big Elk Lodge
www.largecabinrentals.com/cabins/the-big-elk-lodge/
Last but not least on our list of wheelchair-accessible Smoky Mountain cabins is Big Elk Lodge. Located in the Wild Briar log home community in Pigeon Forge, this 16-bedroom, 18-bathroom lodge can sleep up to 81 people.
There’s ramp access up to the front door, and level access into the large great room. Inside, there’s a variety of sofas and love seats on the side near the fireplace, and dining tables and chairs on the side near the kitchen. The double commercial kitchen can surely keep pace with any large group, and it comes fully stocked with all the plates, cups, glassware and utensils that you’ll ever need. Plus you just can’t beat the gorgeous mountain view from the great room or the large wrap around deck.
The first-floor accessible suite is located right off the great room, and it’s furnished with a 30-inch high open-frame king-sized bed, a loveseat, a chest of drawers, a table and a TV. There’s wheelchair access on both sides of the bed, but depending on the furniture placement, the table may need to be moved a bit to fully access both sides. There’s also level access out to the wrap around deck from the bedroom.
The adjacent bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius and is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink. A portable shower chair is available upon request.
The large lodge also has a washer and dryer, as well as a full theater downstairs, plus plenty of space in the front to set up picnic tables or even a tent. It’s the perfect choice for family reunions, destination weddings and corporate retreats.
Great Room in Elk Lodge
Dining Hall in Elk Lodge
Porch in Elk Lodge
Ground floor bedroom in Elk Lodge
Toilet and sink in ground floor bathroom in Elk Lodge
Shower in ground floor bathroom in Elk Lodge
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Although there aren’t any hotels inside Denali National Park, several wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging choices are located nearby. And if you’d like to forego the creature comforts of a traditional lodge and sleep under the stars, you can also pitch your own tent inside the park. To that end, here are some of the top wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging choices.
Lobby at the Denali Princess WildernessLodge
Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge
www.princesslodges.com/princess-alaska-lodges/denali-lodge/
Located just a mile north of the park entrance on the George Parks Highway, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge is a convenient and accessible choice. Accessible parking is located near the main lodge, with level access over to the entrance. Inside, there’s barrier-free access to the comfortable seating area around the fireplace, and level access over to the front desk. There’s also elevator access to the downstairs public area, where River Run Espresso is located.
This massive property features 656 guest rooms, which are located in separate buildings dotted throughout the wooded complex. That said, nothing is too far away, as an accessible on-property shuttle is available to all guests.
The newest accessible rooms are located in the B building. Room 206 features wide doorways and good pathway access; and is furnished with a 28-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides. It also includes a 13-inch high sleeper sofa and a desk with a chair. The large bathroom is outfitted 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 left walls (as seated). Room 204, which is located next door, includes the same access features, but the toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated).
Room 206 at the Denali Princess Lodge
The Great Room, which features level access, offers coffee and pastries in the morning. There’s also barrier-free access to the adjacent deck, which is a perfect place to sit back and enjoy the view. There’s good wheelchair-access to all the dining venues, including the King Salmon Dining Room, the Grizzly Bar & Grill and Lynx Creek Pizza and Pub. And when you’re ready to visit the park, a wheelchair-accessible shuttle is available.
Next up on the list of wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging options is Denali Park Village. Located just six miles south of the park, the property features accessible parking with barrier-free access over to the entrance. Inside, there’s good pathway access to the front desk, the Lucky Miss Saloon, the Gold Rush Dining Room and the gift shop.
This 338-room property features spacious accessible rooms housed in buildings throughout the wooded campus. And although some of the offerings are a good hike from the main lodge, an accessible on-site shuttle bus is also available. The 700 building, which is located near the main lodge, offers a number of wheelchair-accessible rooms, and it’s the only building with elevator access,
Room 706 features wide doorways and good pathway access. It’s furnished with a 25-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides. Additionally, there’s a small roll-under sink in the main room area. The room also has a small deck area that overlooks the river, and although there is a one-inch lip out to it, it’s doable for most people.
The bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius and is outfitted with a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench, grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. There’s also a larger roll-under sink in the bathroom, and the toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated). And if you need toilet grab bars on the other side, room 712 is a mirror image of room 706.
Bathroom in room 706
A portable shower chair is available for any room upon request, and refrigerated medicine can be stored at the front desk. Wheelchair-accessible shuttle service to and from Denali National Park is also available upon request
If you prefer a smaller family owner wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging option, then look no further than the Denali Grizzly Bear Resort, which is just across the street from Denali Park Village. There’s ramped access up to the front office and barrier-free access over to the front desk. Opened as a campground in 1968, today this property boasts a hotel and cabins, along with the campsites. And although the resort has grown, there’s still an emphasis on friendly individualized service there.
Room B4 is located in the Cedar Hotels, which is a short drive from the office. Parking is available in a level dirt area across from the room, and there’s ramp access up to the front door. The cavernous room includes wide doorways and room enough for even the largest wheelchair or scooter to wheel around with ease.
Room A4 at the Grizzly Bear Resort
Furnishings include two 24-inch high double beds with an access aisle between them, a chest of drawers and an easy chair. This room also features an expansive river view from the private deck. The bathroom has a full five-foot turning radius and includes a roll-in shower with a padded fold-down shower bench, a hand-held showerhead and grab bars. Add in a roll-under sink and toilet grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated), and you have a very accessible room.
Bathroom in room A4 at the Grizzly Bear Resort
Again, the emphasis is on personal service at the Denali Grizzly Bear Resort. A portable shower chair is available for any room upon request, and there’s also a loaner wheelchair in the office. And if you’d like a few suggestions about things to do in the area, don’t be afraid to hit up the manager. Not only is he a life-long local resident, but as he’s intimately familiar with the wheelchair-accessibility of businesses and attractions nearby.
Finally, if you’d prefer to camp out and enjoy the great outdoors, then the Riley Creek Campground, which is located near the park entrance, is the perfect choice. Although the campground is open year-round, the restrooms and showers are only open in the summer, so realistically it’s only a seasonal option.
That said, it’s a beautiful — and very quiet — campground, which features a number of accessible campsites with raised tent platforms, accessible picnic tables and grills. Some campsites can also accommodate a RV. Reservations can be made online; and as an added bonus, folks with an America the Beautiful Access Pass or a Senior Pass get 50% off of all camping fees.
Riley Creek Campground is located next to the Mercantile, which offers level access and carries a good variety of groceries, sundries and camping supplies. But by far one of the best features of the campground — the heated shower house— is located next to the Mercantile.
There’s level access to both the men’s and the women’s side of the shower house. Both sides are outfitted with a large accessible toilet stall with grab bars, and a larger shower with a fold-down bench. Although there is a one-inch lip on the accessible shower, most folks will be able to transfer directly to the fold-down shower bench.
Riley Creek Campground is also located between two shuttle bus stops, and all of the park shuttles are wheelchair-accessible. In the end, no matter what lodging choice you make, plan to stay at lest two or three nights to enjoy all that the park has to offer. And remember to make your reservations early, as these wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging choices fill up fast.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
is now available. And I’m happy to report that there’s been improved access in — and around — all three parks.
The second edition includes updated information on:
Accessible trails and attractions
Access upgrades, details and photos of all in-park lodges
Accessible lodging options in gateway communities
Barrier-free campgrounds
Accessible bus, snowcoach and boat tours
Accessible shuttles to and around the parks
Insider access tips
Fly-drive suggestions with accessible rental vehicle resources
National park discounted pass information
This national park access guide was a challenging title for me, as of course Charles and I made numerous treks to all three parks (which we always do); but this time we also had to work our travels around our roles as owner/builders while finishing the construction of our new home. To say that it was delicate balancing act is a huge understatement. And although I wrote a good deal of the book at a picnic table on-site while supervising the construction, I’m pleased to announce that we are now finally settled in our new abode. The other good news is now we are even closer to Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, so it will be easier to update future changes.
Access Improvements Galore!
There are of course a lot of changes since the first edition of this national park access guide, but they are good changes. For example Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel renovated their main lodge rooms, and they now have five accessible guest rooms, including three with roll-in showers. And outside the Parks, the new William Bridger Cabins and Glacier Cabin Village both have nice accessible units with roll-in showers.
The in-park concessionaires are doing a great job too, from Xanterra’s accessible Glacier Red Bus Tours to the accessible boat tours down in Grand Teton offered by Jenny Lake Boating. Access is really improving thanks to their efforts.
So grab a copy of my new edition and plan an accessible road trip this year. And don’t forget to get your required entrance permit for Glacier National Park. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment!
Located in the Central California Sierras, Kings Canyon National Park is just a short drive from Sequoia National Park. It’s composed of two distinct regions — Grant Grove and Cedar Grove. These two regions are connected by the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, which runs through a section of the Sequoia National Forest between them. Grant Grove is known for its giant sequoias, while Cedar Grove boasts some magnificent granite canyons. And both areas feature an abundance of wildlife and some spectacular windshield views.
Insider Tips
For a bird’s eye view of the park, head up to Panoramic Point. The two-mile road to the viewpoint is located on the far side of the visitor center parking lot. Just follow the signs to John Muir Lodge, and make a sharp right just before you reach the lodge. At the end of the one-lane winding road there’s accessible parking and a paved path out to the viewpoint, which also offers a glance at Hume Lake, Spanish Mountain and Mt. Goddard in the distance. It’s definitely worth the short walk.
Grant Grove Cabins offers a nicely accessible rustic cabin, which is furnished with two queen-sized beds and includes a covered patio with a picnic table and a small wood stove. An accessible bathhouse, with family restrooms and a roll-in shower, is located nearby. It’s a nice choice for folks who enjoy nature, but don’t really want to pitch a tent.
Grizzly Falls Picnic Area, which is located along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, makes an excellent lunch stop. A short paved loop leads from the parking area to several accessible picnic tables on cement pads. As an added bonus, there’s a great view of the falls from any of the picnic tables and even the parking area.
Located south of the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway and north of Jackson, Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park encompasses over 310,000 acres filled with glacial lakes and bordered by the magnificent Teton Range. There’s no shortage of wildlife in the park either, and visitors commonly encounter elk and bison along the park roads. No mater where you travel in this rugged mountain park, there’s an abundance of scenic windshield views along the way. Grand Teton National Park is truly one of the great – and often overlooked — natural treasures of the American West.
Insider Tips
Although the Jenny Lake Scenic Drive is a must-do, most folks entirely miss a beautiful accessible stroll along the way. The access point is near the end of the drive, at a pullout on the right which boasts an accessible parking spot. From there, a paved service road winds a half-mile through the woods to the campground, and then continues along a .16-mile path to the ranger station. From there, you can connect to the accessible portion of the Jenny Lake Trail. As an added bonus, this route isn’t listed on any park maps, so it’s largely devoid of visitors. Plus it’s very accessible.
For a look at the most iconic structure in the park, head over to the Mormon Row Historic District. Located off of Antelope Flats Road, this historic district dates back to the 1890s when Mormon families began to establish homesteads in the area. The historic T. A Moulton Barn, which has adorned many a calendar, is located just across from the parking area. Even if you can’t walk far you, can still enjoy this historic wooden structure framed by the towering Tetons.
Colter Bay Village Cabins offers two accessible cabins, each with a roll-in shower. Cabin 458 is double the size of cabin 456, yet since both these cabins have the same bed configuration and are in the same rate category they rent for the same price. Cabin 458 is definitely a hidden treasure of a deal!
If a trip to Yellowstone National Park is on your travel calendar, then consider staying in Gardiner at the Jim Bridger Explorer Cabins (www.yellowstonevacations.com). This new addition to the Ridgeline Hotel features nine explorer cabins grouped around two community fire pits. It combines the best of both worlds — the feeling of roughing it in the outdoors, but with all the luxuries of home and hearth. And the wheelchair-accessible cabin is packed full of accessible amenities — including a choice of bed heights. As an added bonus, it’s just a short drive from Gardiner to the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It’s the perfect pick for a wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone visit.
Spend the Night
There’s accessible parking near the Ridgeline Hotel office, with level access to the front desk. From there, it’s just a short drive around the corner to the accessible parking space near accessible cabin 2. The parking space is located close to the ramp that winds around to the front porch of the cabin. Alternatively, there are steps up to the front porch, with accessible parking located nearby.
Entry to Cabin 2
Access features in the cabin include wide doorways, lever handles, good pathway access and low-pile carpet for easy rolling. The great room is furnished with a 13-inch high sleeper sofa and a coffee table in front of a gas fireplace. The kitchenette includes a roll-under sink, a refrigerator, a dishwasher, a cooktop and a microwave. Also included are a nice selection of dishes, glasses, utensils and pots and pans. Add in a toaster, a coffee maker and even an ice maker and you have all your bases covered.
Kitchen in Cabin 2
The master bedroom is furnished with a 31-inch high platform bed with wheelchair access on both sides; while the second bedroom has a bunk bed with a double on the bottom (23-inches high) and a twin on top. So between the sleeper sofa and the two bedrooms, guests definitely have a choice in bed heights.
Master Bedroom in Cabin 2
There’s excellent access in the bathroom as well, which boasts a full five-foot turning radius. It’s 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 a toilet with grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated).
Shower in Cabin 2
Sink and toilet in Cabin 2
The Extras
And then there are those little extra features at this fun wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone lodging pick. Lets start out with the private rooftop deck in cabin 2. Although the other cabins have a spiral staircase up to this feature, there’s a private elevator to access the deck in accessible cabin. It’s a great place to chill at night or to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee in the morning.
Rooftop deck on Cabin 2
The explorer cabins come equipped with walking sticks, flashlights and binoculars. There’s also a nice little collection of games in the hall closets, including National Park Monopoly. And if you need to do some laundry, it’s free — along with the detergent — over at the Ridgeline Hotel. Last but certainly not least, there’s the free s’mores kit, so you can craft your own yummy creation around the community fire pit. All in all, it’s a great wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone lodging pick, with plenty of choices for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
I’m thrilled to announce that my newest national park access guide was just released. The second edition of Barrier-Free Travel; Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers (
