Yurts are all the rage these days. An alternative to pitching a tent, they come in all shapes and sizes. Some are pretty basic, while others offer all the comforts of home. They are all set in stunning locations, and since you just have to take along bedding and towels, it’s easy to pack for a yurting vacation. And the good news is, wheelchair-accessible yurts are popping up at campgrounds across America.
This accessible yurt is located in a popular state park in Northwestern Georgia. Spend a night or two and enjoy some of the views from the accessible Overlook Trail.
These two wheelchair-accessible yurts are surrounded by Colorado’s scenic beauty. One is located in Golden Gate Canyon, while the other is near Rocky Mountain National Park.
Located south of highly visited Sequoia National Park, this secluded yurt is in a campground with only 11 other sites. And it’s just a stones throw away from a wheelchair-accessible trail through the Sequoias.
This simple yurt is perched on a hillside overlooking a scenic Utah lake. Add in a spacious deck with a gas BBQ and you have a perfectly accessible retreat.
If you want to dodge the tourist crowds in popular Napa Valley, then head over to Boothe Napa State Park and spend the night in this wheelchair-accessible yurt. And then enjoy some of the wheelchair-accessible trails in the park.
South Beach State Park, which is located on the Oregon coast, features 23 wheelchair-accessible yurts. Add in some accessible trails and you have the perfect spot to stay for a few days.
Last but certainly not least, this wheelchair-accessible yurt is located in Ridgeway State Park, nestled at the base of the San Juan Mountains in Southwestern Colorado. And it’s just a short drive from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Barrier-Free Travel
California National Park Road Trips
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
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
Located just outside the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park, the Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone (www.yellowstonevacations.com) offer a comfortable and convenient lodging choice for park visitors. This 50-unit property focuses on cabineering — a lodging concept which offers the comforts of home and the perks of a hotel in a remote natural setting. And the good news is, the complex boasts two accessible cabins, which makes it an excellent wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone lodging choice.
Wheelchair-Accessible Explorer Cabins
The Explorer Cabins are grouped around communal fire pits and public spaces, with barrier-free access throughout the complex. There’s no dedicated office for the cabins, so-check in is done at the nearby Yellowstone Park Hotel. This property also has good wheelchair access, with accessible parking in front and barrier-free access to the lobby. Luggage assistance is also available upon request.
Cabin 11 is one of two accessible models. It’s located in the Washburn Camp, with accessible parking in a nearby lot, and ramp access to the front porch. This modern log cabin is furnished with a 14-inch high sleeper sofa in the living room, and has a kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, cook top, sink and a full set of dishes and utensils. There’s also a gas fireplace to snuggle up to if you get chilly. And in keeping with the rustic ambiance, the cabin is pleasantly minus a television.
The bedroom is furnished with a 31-inch high king-sized bed, with 32 inches of clearance on one side and 26 inches on the other. There’s level access to the adjacent bathroom, which features a wide doorway and a five-foot turning radius. It’s equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead, and a fold-down padded shower bench. Toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated), and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink.
There’s some outdoor furniture on the large front porch, but you can also enjoy the view through the floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room. The cabin also comes with some extra amenities like binoculars, walking sticks, flashlights and even a s’mores kit. It’s a perfect choice for a family vacation, and a great wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone lodging choice.
Living Area in Explorer Cabin 11
Living Area in Explorer Cabin 11 (view 2)
Bedroom in Explorer Cabin 11
Bathroom in Explorer Cabin 11
Explore West Yellowstone
Visitor Center at Yellowstone West
As well as acting as a gateway to the national park, West Yellowstone offers a number of accessible attractions of its own. And the best place to find out about them is to drop by the West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center (destinationyellowstone.com/), which is located on the corner of Yellowstone Avenue and Canyon Street.
There’s accessible parking in the large lot, with level access over to the visitor center. Inside there’s barrier-free access throughout the building, which features a plethora of local information. Be sure an pick up the free walking tour map of the historic district while you’re there. The two-block historic district is level, with wide sidewalks and curb-cuts at every corner; and the tour offers a good overview of the town, with an emphasis of its railroad history.
Yellowstone Museum
The Yellowstone Museum (museumoftheyellowstone.org/), which is located along the tour route, is also worth a stop. Housed in the historic Union Pacific Railroad Station, the museum features level access and contains exhibits about Yellowstone, lots of old photos and even the original shoe shine stand from the depot.
Wolves at the Yellowstone Grizzly and Wolf Center
Last but not least, don’t miss the The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org/). There’s accessible parking near the entrance and level access to the front door to this combination wildlife park and educational facility. Inside you’ll find interpretive exhibits about wolves and bears, ranging from ecology, poaching and bear safety, to a brief run down on the bears of the world.
Outside there’s level access to the enclosures, where you can get up-close-and-personal with the inhabitants. From bears, wolves and even a bald eagle, there’s certainly plenty to see. It’s truly a must-stop on any Yellowstone visit.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
All shuttles are wheelchair-accessible, and the ticket price is a very reasonable $1 for passengers over 2 years old (there’s no charge for lap children). Shuttles depart from Apgar Visitor Center and Lake McDonald Lodge on the west side, and St. Mary Visitor Center and the Rising Sun Picnic Area on the east side. Advance tickets are required, and they are only available at www.recreation.gov. A portion of the tickets are released 60 days in advance, while the remainder are available 7 PM MDT for next day entry. Plan ahead, as walk-up tickets are not available at the park.
Why Take the Shuttle?
And in case you are on the fence about riding the shuttle, here are six reasons that make it a worthwhile choice.
The drive on the winding road up to Logan Pass can be daunting if you’re not used to driving in the mountains. Taking the shuttle allows you to relax and leave the driving to someone else.
You’ll definitely save on gas if you take the shuttle. And you won’t have to worry about filling up your tank to make it to your next destination.
You can really enjoy the view along the way, and even take some breathtaking photos if you’re not driving.
You don’t have to worry about finding a parking place at Logan Pass. The shuttle drops you off right in front of the Visitor Center. And there’s a nice accessible trail near the Visitor Center.
If you’re worried about time management, taking the shuttle can help you keep to a schedule. It’s easy for time to slip away while stopping at every pullout along the way to Logan Pass.
Last but not least, you don’t have to worry about driving in inclement weather if you take the shuttle. Rain storms and even a summer snowfall can make the winding mountain road to the top of Logan Pass slick, and even dangerous, in some places. Play it safe and take the shuttle.
So get your Glacier National Park tickets today at www.recreation.gov and have a safe and relaxing visit to Glacier National Park.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
In most cases a national park visit requires a vehicle, which can add extra time and expense to a fly-drive itinerary. Factor accessibility into the equation and it becomes even more complicated, as adapted rental vans are sometimes not readily available at gateway airports.
So what’s a traveler to do? Well if Glacier National Park (www.emerginghorizons.com/glacier-national-park) is on your bucket list, it’s now possible to enjoy a seamless accessible national park visit without a car, van, or even an airplane. Thanks to accessible rail connections, as well as a local network of accessible transportation providers, wheelchair-users and slow walkers can now get to, get around and get out and enjoy Glacier National Park without a car.
All Aboard
The first step to visiting Glacier National Park without a car is finding accessible transportation. To that end, wheelchair-accessible rail service is available to Glacier National Park on Amtrak’s Empire Builder train that runs from Chicago to Spokane. The train stops in West Glacier and East Glacier, and also connects to Portland and Seattle from Spokane. The Empire Builder train features an on-board lift, but station lifts are also available at both Glacier park stations.
The east-bound train departs Seattle in the late afternoon and rolls into West Glacier the next morning. The west bound journey is considerably longer — it takes almost 30 hours to reach East Glacier from Chicago. And although the West Glacier station is open year-round, the East Glacier station is closed during the winter months.
Accessible shuttle service is available at both stations to select park lodges. On the west side, Xanterra operates an accessible shuttle to and from Lake McDonald Lodge and the Village Inn at Apgar (both of which have accessible rooms). For more information or to make shuttle reservations, call (855) 733-4522. The East Glacier Train Depot is conveniently located across the street from Glacier Park Lodge; however accessible transfers are available to lodge guests with 24-hours notice. This lodge also has wheelchair-accessible rooms. For more information, contact Pursuit at (844) 868-7474.
Getting Around Glacier
Getting around Glacier National Park without a car is fairly easy too, thanks to a number of accessible shuttles and tours. The National Park Service operates the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle on both the east and west sides of the park. The wheelchair-accessible shuttles depart from Apgar Visitor Center and Lake McDonald Lodge on the west side and the St. Mary Visitor Center and the Rising Sun Picnic Area on the east side. It only operates during the summer months. Advance tickets are required for the shuttle, and they can be purchased at www.recreation.gov.
It’s just a short walk to the shuttle stop at Apgar Visitor Center from the Village Inn at Apgar; and the East Side Shuttle connects Glacier Park Lodge guests with the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle at the St. Mary Visitor Center. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available with 24 hours notice on the East Side Shuttle (844-868-7474).
Take a Tour
Accessible Glacier Red Bus Tour vehicle
Although the historic Red Buses of Glacier National Park are not wheelchair-accessible, Xanterra Parks also has two wheelchair-accessible vehicles in their fleet. These lift-equipped vehicles have two-wheelchair spaces with tie-downs, and can accommodate a total of 14 passengers.
The accessible tours generally follow the same itinerary as the standard tours; however they tend to spend more time at the accessible stops, such as the Trail of the Cedars and Logan Pass. The western tours depart from the Apgar Visitor Center and Lake McDonald Lodge, and the eastern tours depart from the St, Mary Visitor Center. For more information, visit www.glaciernationalparklodges.com, call (855-733-4522 or e-mail redbustours@xanterra.com. Remember to book early though, as these popular tours sell out quickly.
Additionally, Glacier Sun Tours also offers tours of the west and east sides of Glacier National Park in air-conditioned vehicles during the summer months. The tours depart from Apgar Visitor Center and St. Mary Visitor Center. Tour guides are lifetime residents of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, and they offer visitors a good overview of the natural history of the park, and also integrate their own tribal history and culture into the interpretation. Advance reservations are required, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available upon request. For more information on Glacier Sun Tours offerings, visit www.suntours.co/.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
With 63 parks in the US National Park System, it’s really hard to choose a favorite. That said, wheelchair-access plays a big part in my top choices. But there has to be more than just access to a visitor center or a few overlooks to make my list. Diversity also plays into my choices, but so does the quality of the visit. Accessible overnight lodging has to be in that mix too.
And let’s not forget about the price of popularity. Sadly, with so many visitors flocking to some of these national treasures, sometimes it feels like you are lined up for a popular ride at an iconic theme park at some national parks. That definitely takes away from the natural experience. So taking that all these factors into consideration, here are my five favorite wheelchair-accessible national parks .
Glacier National Park (emerginghorizons.com/barrier-free-travel-glacier-yellowstone-and-grand-teton-national-parks-for-wheelchair-users-and-slow-walkers/#itin-1) tops my list of wheelchair-accessible national parks, not only for the beautiful scenery and variety of accessible lodging choices, but for its ease of access without a vehicle. That’s right, you can take the Amtrak Empire Builder to this iconic national park, and then hop on the visitor shuttle to your in-park lodge and then book a Red Bus tour to see the park. And the good news is, that all of these transportation options are wheelchair-accessible. Plus, you don’t have to worry about getting an entrance reservation (emerginghorizons.com/national-park-entrance-reservations-required-in-2024/) if you stay in the park. So ditch your car and visit this Montana gem this summer!
Big Trees Loop at Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park
Yosemite (emerginghorizons.com/barrier-free-travelyosemite-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-national-parksfor-wheelers-and-slow-walkers/#itins holds a special place in my heart, as I grew up near there and spent a good chunk of my adult life in the area. Nothing beats the grandeur of Yosemite Falls or Half Dome; however Yosemite Valley can get extremely crowded, even in the off season. One way to dodge some of the crowds is to plan an excursion to a non-valley site. And my top pick for that is Mariposa Grove. Located near the South Entrance of the park, Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. And thanks to upgrades over the years, there are two wheelchair-accessible trails through this often overlooked corner of the park.
Next up on my list of favorite wheelchair-accessible national parks is Shenandoah National Park. This Northwestern Virginia national park is chocked full of beautiful views, and the wildflower blooms in the summer are absolutely gorgeous. There’s also a beautiful 1.3-mile accessible trail that runs through a wooded area and over a boardwalk. And the trail is close to Skyland, an excellent choice for wheelchair-accessible lodging. The property boasts a spacious accessible room with a roll-in shower and the restaurant offers more great views. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and spend a night or two.
Forces of the Northern Range Boardwalk in Yellowstone National Park
I love Yellowstone National Park (emerginghorizons.com/barrier-free-travel-glacier-yellowstone-and-grand-teton-national-parks-for-wheelchair-users-and-slow-walkers/#itin-1), and I’m not alone with that opinion. It’s an incredibly busy national park. That said, if you get there early you can enjoy a somewhat uncrowded experience at Old Faithful, one of the park’s biggest draws. But there’s much more to see beyond the iconic geyser, and even a few places that are a little off-the-beaten-path. Some of my wheelchair-accessible favorites are West Thumb Geyser Basin, Frying Pan Spring and the Forces of the Northern Range Boardwalk. And one of my friends even had an accessible hunting adventure there (emerginghorizons.com/a-disabled-hunting-adventure-stalking-big-game-out-west/). Truly, they sky’s the limit as far as accessible things to do in the nation’s first national park.
Rounding out my list of favorite wheelchair-accessible national parks is and oldie but goodie — Grand Canyon National Park (emerginghorizons.com/the-grand-canyon-for-wheelers-and-slow-walkers/#itin-1). More specifically, the South Rim of this iconic national park. I love it not only because of the accessible canyon views and lodging options, but also because it’s another national park that you can see without a car. You can take Amtrak’s Southwest Chief to Flagstaff and connect with an accessible shuttle to the park. Alternately, you can take an Amtrak thruway bus to Williams and hop on the equally accessible Grand Canyon Railway and ride it to the park. Add in an overnight at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, and you have a truly accessible car-free Grand Canyon package. And once you’re in the park, there’s an accessible shuttle that stops at the most popular South Rim sites. Enjoy the scenery and leave the driving to someone else in this beautiful national park.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Billed as the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Flathead Lake takes up a fair amount of real estate. Measuring 30 miles long and 16 miles wide, it covers 197 square miles. And although there are a number of campgrounds around the lake, the one at the Big Arm Unit (montanastateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/big-arm-unit–flathead-lake-state-park/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=MT&parkId=630110) is particularly attractive. This section, which was name for the large bay that resembles a “big arm,” has just 40 campsites; most of which are located under a mature stand of ponderosa pines.
And then there are the yurts, which are perched on a hillside overlooking the lake. There are three of them, including one that’s ideal for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. So pack the car and hit the road to Western Montana, and spend the night in this wheelchair-accessible Flathead Lake yurt.
Wheelchair-Accessible Flathead Lake Yurt
Interior of Yurt at Flathead Lake, Montana
The organization of the campground at the Big Arm Unit allows for maximum privacy for folks in the yurts. Most of the campsites are located along the main park road near the shoreline, while only the yurts and the host sites are located on a small road above the lake. Finding it may be a bit tricky the first time though, because the sign pointing to the yurts is located right after the turn. No problem, just continue down to the general campground, turn around by the restrooms, then hit the turn on your way back. The wheelchair-accessible Swan yurt is the last one on the right.
There’s parking in a level area, with room to deploy a ramp near the yurt, and a level pathway over to the deck. The deck winds around to the front of the yurt, where there’s level access through a wide door. Inside, there’s plenty of room to roll around the yurt, which is furnished with two shelving units, a table with two benches, a bunk bed (the lower bunk is 21 inches high) and a futon. The 19-inch high futon folds down and can accommodate two people, with wheelchair access on one side.
The yurt also includes several electrical outlets, lights, a heater and a fan. And the unit is partially surrounded by trees for privacy, but there’s still a nice view of the lake from the front deck. Add in an accessible vault toilet next door, and you have just about everything you need.
There’s More!
Accessible Yurt at Flathead Lake, Montana
There’s certainly enough room on the deck for a camp chair or two, but there’s also an accessible picnic table right next to the yurt. There’s a raised grill and a fire ring next to it, so bring some s’more makings and you’re good to go.
There’s also a tent pad next to the picnic table. The short pathway to the tent pad has a steep slope, which would be a challenge for many wheelchair-users. That said, it might be a good option for friends or family who don’t need any accessible accommodations.
And of course, you just can’t beat this location, as Flathead Lake is beautiful. You can get a closer look at it from the day-use area, which is near the park entrance. Make a right, just after you pass the entrance kiosk. This road goes all the way to the boat launch, but there’s a nice picnic and viewing area on the right, before you hit the launch.
There’s accessible parking in this lakeshore lot, and a sidewalk that leads over to an accessible vault toilet. There are two accessible picnic table under the pines near the lake, with level access out to them. There’s also a large ramada in this area, and although it does have level access and an accessible picnic table, it’s reserved for groups. And if you happen to be launching a boat, there’s an accessible trailer parking spot right behind the vault toilet. All in all, the Big Arm Unit of Flathead Lake is a pleasant place for a picnic, or a nice place to take a break, spend the night and and enjoy the view.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
Population 1,005
Browning is located about an hour southeast of the Saint Mary Entrance to Glacier National Park, and it makes a nice stop on the way to or from the park. Although there’s really not much to the town, the excellent Museum of the Plains Indian (www.doi.gov/iacb/museum-plains-indian) is definitely worth a visit. Although the exterior of the museum is unimpressive, don’t be dissuaded by the lackluster front façade, as the artifacts inside are first-rate. There’s barrier-free access to the galleries that are filled with everything from cradleboards and toys, to weapons, ceremonial clothing, toys and lots of jewelry. The unusual bag made from a cow hoof, the buffalo hunt mural and the collection of woven cornhusk bags definitely stand out. There’s also accessible seating in the theater, where a short movie about the Plains Indians is shown. And don’t miss the excellent gift shop, the artist demonstrations, and the gallery filled with works by tribal artists.
If you’re heading up to the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park, be sure and stop in at East Glacier Park Village to see the World’s Largest Purple Spoon. Located next to the Spiral Spoon (www.thespiralspoon.com) on MT 49, this local landmark is affectionately known as Big Martha. Crafted by Charlie and Jo Wagner, the 25-foot high utensil, which is made of plywood and Styrofoam, was unveiled on May 20, 2005.
There’s level parking in a dirt area next to the spoon, and a level path over to the Spiral Spoon. The shop itself has two small steps up into it, and if you can manage those, it’s definitely worth a look inside. This quaint shop offers a good selection of spoons and other implements carved by local artists. And in the back room, there’s an interesting display of vintage spoons on the ceiling, and a prop spoon that was used on the television show Bonanza in a case on the back wall.
All in all it’s a fun stop, if only for the photo op. It may or may not be the world’s largest purple spoon (hence the “maybe” etched on the plaque) but it’s definitely the largest one in this tiny village.
In most cases a national park visit requires a vehicle, which can add extra time and expense to a fly-drive itinerary. Factor accessibility into the equation and it becomes even more complicated, as adapted rental vans are sometimes not readily available at gateway airports.
