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Shenandoah National Park for Wheelchair-Users

Shenandoah National Park for Wheelchair-Users

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Shenandoah National Park

Located in Northwestern Virginia, Shenandoah National Park (www.nps.gov/shen) encompasses nearly 200,000 acres of protected lands, including 79,000 acres of wilderness, and a slice of the Appalachian Trail. Truly you don’t even have to get out of your car to enjoy Shenandoah’s majesty, as impressive windshield views can be had just about anywhere along the 105-mile length of Skyland Drive. That said, the park is worth more than a quick drive-through. The good news is, that if you’d like to stay and linger on, Skyland mountain lodge offers some nice wheelchair-accessible accommodations, close to one of the most accessible trails in the park.

A Room With a View

Located near milepost 41, Skyland (www.goshenandoah.com), which was originally known as Stony Mountain Camp, dates back to 1888. And although there have been a few changes to the property since George Freeman Pollock originally broke ground, the natural beauty of the surrounding forest remains unchanged. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this mountain lodge has also added numerous access upgrades over the years.

Accessible parking is located near the lodge office, with an accessible cement pathway down to the front door. Accessible room 14 is located near the office, with accessible parking nearby. This large corner room not only offers excellent access, but also boasts a lovely valley view.

Room 14 at Skyland in Shenandoah National Park

Access features include wide doorways, wood floors, lever handles, a lowered closet rod, and good pathway access. Furnishings include a 19-inch high open-frame king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, two night tables, a chest of drawers and a table with two chairs. And if you want to catch up on the news, there’s also a television in the room.

The bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius, and it’s equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead, and a fold-down padded shower bench. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink and a lowered mirror. Add in shower controls located within easy reach of the shower seat, and a lowered towel hook near the sink, and you have a very accessible room.

Bathroom in Room 14 at Skyland in Shenandoah National Park

And out on the semi-private front porch, there’s plenty of room to maneuver even the largest wheelchair or scooter. It’s the perfect place to sit back and enjoy the sunset, or to just relax after a busy travel day.

Take A Hike

Access to the public areas of Skyland — which are located next to the office — is equally impressive. There’s barrier-free access to the day lodge, with level access over to the Mountain Room taproom, gift shop and grab-and-go food kiosk. Accessible restrooms are located just off the lobby; and there’s ramp access down to the Pollock Dining Room, which also offers a great view of Shenandoah National Park. Not only is Skyland a great place to spend the night, but it’s also a very accessible spot to grab a bite to eat during the day.

Limberlost Trail in Shenandoah National Park

Additionally, Skyland is located close to the nicely accessible Limberlost Trail. There’s accessible parking near the trailhead, with level access over to this hard-packed dirt trail covered with decomposed granite. The 1.3-mile trail begins in an oak-filled wooded area with ferns and mountain laurels; before it transitions to a wetlands boardwalk, and then crosses the river and loops back to the trailhead.

This area is especially beautiful in June, when the mountain laurels are in bloom, but it also makes for a pleasant hike in the spring and fall. And you can enjoy all of this beauty, just steps from the lodge. It’s definitely worth an overnight stay at Skyland, on your next visit visit to Shenandoah National Park.

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Discover Historic Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Discover Historic Guadalupe Mountains National Park

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El Capitan, the southern-most point of the Guadalupe Mountains

Named for the mountain range that dominates the landscape, Guadalupe Mountains National Park (www.nps.gov/gumo/) contains the four highest peaks in Texas, and boasts an impressive share of backcountry acreage. If all that sounds a little foreboding for wheelchair-users and slow walkers, then think again.

The park also contains a historic stage stop as well as the ruins of an 1800s ranch — both of which are wheelchair-accessible. They can be easily reached from Highway 62/180, which runs from El Paso to Carlsbad and passes through the southwest section of the park. Not only is Guadalupe Mountains National Park a destination by itself, but it also makes a nice add-on to a Carlsbad Caverns visit. Either way, it’s a good choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers who want to explore a bit of southwest history.

Pinery Stage Station

The Pinery Trail in Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The Pinery Visitor Center makes a good first stop in the park. Located just off the highway, there’s accessible parking in front, with barrier-free access to the building. Inside there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair around the exhibits and ranger information desk, and level access to the accessible restrooms.

But the real attraction — The Pinery Trail — starts just outside the visitor center and leads over to the site of the former Pinery Stage Station. The paved accessible trail is dotted with benches, while interpretive plaques that detail the desert plants line the walkway.

The trail ends at an interpretive plaque that explains the importance of this one-time stage stop. Built in 1858, the stop was named for a nearby stand of pines, and since it had an abundant water source it was one of the most favored stations along the 2,800-mile mail route from St, Louis to San Francisco. It’s about a .7-mile round trip hike from the visitor center, however if you can’t manage the distance, there’s also a pullout along the highway near the stage stop. Although the Butterfield Overland Mail Coach only operated for a little over two years, it should be noted that it never missed a run — even in adverse weather.

Ruins of the Pinery Stage Station

Frijole Ranch History Museum

Frijole Ranch History Museum

Another must-see in Guadalupe Mountains National Park is the Frijole Ranch site, which is located just up the highway. Accessible parking is located near the accessible vault toilet. And since there are accessible picnic tables in a nearby covered pavilion, this stop is also a good spot for a lunch break.

The accessible Manzanita Spring Trail begins near the parking area, and leads over to the Frijole Ranch History Museum — an open-air exhibit which focuses on the history of this parcel, which was first settled by the Radar brothers in 1876. It was later acquired by the John Thomas Smith family in 1906. They grew apples, peaches, apricots and other fruits, and transported their harvest by wagon to Van Horn — a two-day ride away. The Smith farmhouse still stands, and it’s furnished as it would have been in the early 1900s. The Smith family operated the orchard until 1942, and it later served as a ranger residence, before it was added to the National Register of Historic Sites.

The paved undulating trail continues on past the old farmhouse and ends at Manzanita Spring. It should be noted that there’s a short 15-foot section of the trail that has rocks and dirt along it, from a washout. The good news is, that section is at the beginning of the trail, and if you can make it past that, you won’t have any problems completing the trail. On the other hand, if it’s been repaired, this trail is entirely passable for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. All it all, it’s a one-mile round trip hike that offers an interesting look at the farming history of the area.

Manzanita Spring Trail

 

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Sleeping Bear Dunes Track Chairs

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Thanks to Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers three loaner track chairs for use by wheelchair-users and slow walkers. The Mama Bear Chair and the Baby Bear Chair can be used on the Bay View Trail. The Mama Bear Chair is 24 inches wide between the armrests and can carry up to 350 pounds; while the Baby Bear Chair is 18 inches wide between the armrests and can carry up to 300 pounds. The newest track chair, The Platte Bear Chair, is 22 inches wide between the armrests and can carry up to 300 pounds. It can be used on the Platte Plains Trail.

Reservations are required to borrow the Sleeping Bear Dunes track chairs, and they are available Friday through Monday, during the summer season. A waiver of liability must also be signed. Minors are required to be accompanied by an adult. Track chair-users must be able to transfer independently or bring a companion to assist with transfers. After a short orientation a volunteer host will accompany the track chair-user on a hike.

For more information about the track chairs, visit friendsofsleepingbear.org/programs/accessibility/track-chair-program/ or e-mail trackchair@friendsofsleepingbear.org.

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Estes Park Center — A Rocky Mountain National Park Family Lodging Pick

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Estes Park Center — A Rocky Mountain National Park Family Lodging Pick

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Longs Peak Lodge at Estes Park Center

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.”

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Yosemite Firefall Coming in February

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Horsetail Fall in Yosemite National Park

In days of yore, visitors would flock to Yosemite on summer evenings to witness the splendor of the Yosemite Firefall. A naturalist’s nightmare in this day and age, the 1960s firefall was created by park concessionaires tossing a burning rubbish pile off of Glacier Point. And to the delighted crowd gathered below, it appeared as if a fire waterfall was tumbling down over the rock face. For obvious reasons this ritual is no longer performed.

That said, today park visitors can experience a more natural — and just as spectacular — version of a firefall at Horsetail Fall. Every February when this waterfall is backlit near sunset, a vibrant orange glow emanates and mimics the appearance of a waterfall on fire — minus the rubbish pile. And although conditions have to be just right to witness this natural phenomenon, the firefall attracts visitors in droves for the possible opportunity. Of course whenever there are crowds, there are also rules and regulations. So here’s what you need to know — including where to find the accessible viewing areas — to experience the Horsetail Fall lightshow.

Yosemite Firefall Basics

There are several basic requirements for a good Yosemite Firefall. First and foremost you have to have water. A good fall rainfall is helpful for a robust firefall.

Second, you need clear skies so the sun can reflect off the granite behind the waterfall. And although this is up to Mother Nature, it also helps to keep an eye on the weather. If it’s overcast, cloudy or foggy, it will probably be a no-go. Of course you have to hit it at the right time of day — sunset — for an optimum firefall experience. Sunset times range from 5:30 PM to 5:51 PM from February 8 to February 28.

Finally, there’s the location. The best place to view Horsetail Fall is near the El Capitan Picnic Area. Best bet is to try and snag a parking spot at Yosemite Falls, and walk 1.5 miles on Northside Drive to the viewing area. If Yosemite Falls parking is full, park in Yosemite Village or Curry Village and take the free shuttle to Yosemite Falls.

Even if you can’t manage the level walk, you can still enjoy this majestic show. Although one lane of Northside Drive will be closed to accommodate the large number of pedestrians, people with an accessible parking placard are allowed to drive to and park in the El Capitan Picnic Area. They are also allowed to park in any of the turnouts on the north side of Northside Drive. That said, it’s important to note that on busy weekends, Northside Drive may close completely for about an hour after the firefall. And if nature calls, remember there’s an accessible vault toilet in the El Capitan Picnic Area.

Reservation Information

Due to the popularity of the Yosemite Firefall, park entrance reservations are required for the following weekends in 2025.

  • February 8-9
  • February 22-23 (Presidents’ Day Weekend)
  • February 24–25

These reservations are required even if you don’t plan to visit Horsetail Fall. Reservations can be made online at www.recreation.gov, and although there is no fee for the reservation, there is a $2 service charge. Entrance fees are not included with the reservations, and you need a reservation even if you have a national park entrance pass (emerginghorizons.com/how-to-get-a-lifetime-national-park-pass/). The reservations are valid for seven days.

If you arrive at the park Monday through Friday (except Monday February 17) and then leave, you will not need a reservation to gain re-entry on the following weekend, as long as you have your park entrance receipt. Pedestrians, cyclists and people who ride YARTS will not need an entry reservation. Additionally, people who have lodging or camping reservations in the park or in Wawona, Yosemite West or Foresta will not need a reservation. No walk-in camping will be available in February.

Unlike the summer entrance reservations of previous summers, these entrance reservations are required 24 hours a day. Vehicles arriving without entrance reservations on the specified weekends will be turned away. Visitors are allowed to book one reservation, and the person named on the reservation must be in the vehicle. Be sure to print our your reservation, and be prepared to show your ID at the park gate.

Fifty percent of the entrance reservations were released on November 18, 2024, and are available on a first-come basis. The remaining reservations will be released at 8 AM PDT two days prior to the reservation date. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/yose.

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Explore Saguaro National Park

Explore Saguaro National Park

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Saguaro Cactus in Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Known as the symbol of the American West, the giant saguaro cactus can only be found in the Sonoran Desert in the Southwestern US and Mexico. These large columnar cacti are covered in spines and develop branches (arms) as they age. There’s nothing like seeing a forest of saguaros framed by a colorful desert sunset. And the best place to do that is at Saguaro National Park (nps.gov/sagu), near Tucson, Arizona. Divided in two sections — with the city of Tucson in between — this scenic desert area offers several accessible trails for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.

Saguaro East

Ecology Trail in Saguaro East

Located in the Rincon Mountain District, Saguaro East is about 10 miles off Interstate 10. Just take exit 27 and follow the signs to the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center in Saguaro National Park. Accessible parking is located near the visitor center, which offers level access and houses a collection of interpretive exhibits. There’s also plenty of room for a wheelchair in the theater, which shows an introductory film throughout the day. And outside there’s level access around the small native garden, and over to a covered shelter with benches.

The eight-mile Cactus Forest Drive scenic loop begins just east of the visitor center. This one-way drive travels through the heart of a saguaro forest, and boasts fabulous windshield views of the gigantic cacti. There are a number of pullouts along the way, all of which have accessible parking. And if you visit in May, you’ll be treated to an eyeful of showy white booms on the giant cacti.

The first accessible trail is located midway along the drive. There’s accessible parking at the Mica View Picnic Area, with level access over to accessible tables and an accessible vault toilet. Although the entire length of the Mica View trail is not not accessible, the first .7 mile is fairly level and is covered in stabilized granite. The Desert Ecology Trail, which is located just up the road, is also worth a stop. This quarter-mile trail features a paved pathway with benches to sit and rest along the way.

When you reach the end of the scenic loop drive, turn left at the stop sign and head through the Javalina Picnic Area. After you leave the picnic area, look to the right as the road curves, for a view of a tall saguaro with a magnificent crown.

Javalina Picnic area in Saguaro National Park East

Saguaro West

Desert Discovery Trail in Saguaro National Park West

Saguaro West is located in the Tucson Mountain District, which is on the west side of the city, just up the road from the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. From interstate 10, head west on Gates Pass Road, then make a right on Kinney Road. The Red Hills Visitor Center will be on the right, just past the park entrance.

There’s accessible parking in front with level access to the building. Inside there are a number of interpretive exhibits as well as accessible restrooms. Outside there’s a short accessible paved trail that focuses on the ecology of the Sonoran Desert.

The highlight of this section of the park is the Desert Discovery Trail, which is located just a mile past the visitor center, on the left side of the road. This half-mile paved trail features interpretive plaques along the way that describe the plants and animals of the Sonoran Desert. There are benches to rest along the trail, and it’s a favorite spot to catch a spectacular sunset view amidst the cactus forest.

This section of the park also boasts a scenic drive. The 5-mile Bajada Loop Drive winds through the saguaro forest, with plenty of pullouts along the way. Although the road is not paved, it’s still doable in a low clearance vehicle. And if you’d like to pack along a snack, there are two picnic areas along the loop.

Last but not least, don’t forget to ask about the free ranger programs at either visitor center. Offered in the peak winter season, many of the programs are held at accessible areas or trails in or near the visitor centers. These interpretive programs, which focus on the Sonoran Desert and the Saguaro Cactus, greatly enhance any visit to Saguaro National Park.

 

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Wheelchair-Accessible Mammoth Cave National Park

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Generally speaking, caves are not usually a great recreational choice for wheelchair users-and slow walkers. That said, there are a few exceptions. And in that respect Mammoth Cave National Park tops the list. Not only do wheelchair-users and slow walkers have their choice of several accessible trails above ground; but thanks to some recent repairs and renovations, they can also explore the subterranean chambers of this Southwestern Kentucky national park.

A Wheelchair-Accessible Mammoth Cave Tour

Elevator to the accessible Mammoth Cave tour

Mammoth Cave has something that most caves lack — an elevator. Unfortunately it was out of service for several years; but after a massive $2.2 million repair project, it’s once again operational. And after the repairs were completed, an Accessible Cave Tour was added to the roster.

This two-hour tour begins at the visitor center, where participants then drive their own vehicles to the elevator on Cave City Road. There’s accessible parking in the lot, and barrier-free access over to the elevator. The tour of this gypsum cave travels over level cement pathways and visits the Snowball Room, and includes portions of Cleveland Avenue. This accessible tour is an extremely manageable half-mile in length, and it can also accommodate large power wheelchairs and scooters. Additionally, there are benches along the way for slow walkers who need to take a break.

Tickets for the Accessible Cave Tour can be purchased at recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777. They are available up to six months in advance, and it ‘s best to purchase them as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Some walk-up tickets may be available; however due to the popularity of the tour that’s not always the case. For more information about the Accessible Cave Tours, contact the visitor center at (270) 758-2180.

Accessible River and Forest Trails

The Heritage Trail at Mammoth Cave National Park

There are also a number of trails to include on a wheelchair-accessible Mammoth Cave itinerary. The Heritage Trail, which begins near the visitor center, tops the list. This three-quarter-mile trail starts off as a wide level path, before it transitions to a boardwalk that loops through the forest. There are several scenic stops along the way, including Sunset Point, which offers a panoramic view of the rolling hills of the Green River drainage basin.

There’s also a short 300-foot trail out to the Old Guides Cemetery from the Heritage Trail. The level trail leads over to a abandoned graveyard, where Stephen Bishop — a guide who died in 1857 — was laid to rest. Even if you can’t do the entire trail, it’s still a pleasant stroll, and there are plenty of benches to stop and take a break and enjoy the view along the way.

Echo River Spring Trail at Mammoth Cave National Park

The Echo River Spring Trail is also a good choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. The trailhead is located a short drive from the visitor center, in the Green River Ferry parking lot. Accessible parking is available near the trailhead, and there’s also an accessible porta-potty and an accessible picnic table nearby. This .6-mile trail begins as a wide cement walkway, before it transitions to a short boardwalk through the forest. Along the way it passes Echo River Spring, before it loops back to the parking lot. It’s a pleasant stroll, and there are several overlooks with benches to sit back and enjoy the peaceful forest.

More Wheelchair-Accessible Trails!

Sloan’s Crossing Pond Walk at Mammoth Cave National Park

Another couple of wheelchair-accessible trails are located a little further from the visitor center. At the top of that list is Sloan’s Crossing Pond Walk. From the visitor center follow Mammoth Cave Parkway for about three miles, and look for the trailhead on the right, just past Brownsville Road.

This .4-mile boardwalk that circles the shaded pond was completely renovated in 2023. It’s wide and level, and dotted with accessible viewing platforms, benches and interpretive plaques. Even if you can’t do the whole trail, there’s an excellent pond view from the first overlook, which is just steps from the parking area. As an added bonus there’s also an accessible picnic area there.

Last but certainly not least on our wheelchair-accessible Mammoth Cave National Park itinerary, is a stop at the Sand Cave Trail. Located near southeast park entrance, this short trail makes a good stop if you are heading towards Cave City. The .1-mile boardwalk winds through the forest and features low bumpers which open up the views for wheelchair-users. The trail terminates at an overlook, which has a view of the Sand Cave rescue site.

Floyd Collins, who was an avid cave explorer, was trapped at that site for 17 days in 1925. Unfortunately rescuers were not able to reach Collins before he succumbed from exposure. His body was later removed and interred near his family’s Crystal Cave home. Today the story of his life and death is detailed at the wayside exhibit near the Sand Cave Trail. Although it’s a sad — and somewhat gruesome — tale, the trail actually offers a pleasant stroll; and it’s a great way to top off a Mammoth Cave visit.

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Wheelchair-Accessible Road Trip Tips

Wheelchair-Accessible Road Trip Tips

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Route 66 near Oatman, Arizona

Road trips take a lot of planning. From plotting out the most scenic route, to finding quirky roadside attractions and unique lodging options, the devil is definitely in the details. And although everyone should plan for emergency situations, wheelchair-users and slow walkers need to take extra care in the planning process, to make sure they don’t end up stranded on the road. With that in mind, here are some helpful resources and tips to help you plan a successful wheelchair-accessible road trip.

Plan for Emergencies

  • Emergency road service is essential for any road trip, but very few towing companies have wheelchair-accessible tow trucks. Enter Mobility Roadside Assistance (mobilityroadsideassistance.com). Not only does this company provide all the standard auto club services; but if your vehicle needs to be towed they will also dispatch an accessible vehicle to transport you to the garage. Additionally, they can even dispatch a technician to repair your ramp, lift, wheelchair or scooter.
  • If you drive an adapted vehicle, consider what you would do if you had problems with your ramp, lift or hand controls. The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (nmeda.org) has a great database of dealers that are qualified to work on adapted vehicles. Check out their website before you travel to find repair shops along your route.

Know Your Resources

  • Many states are part of the 511 network that provides updated information on traffic conditions. Find out if this service is available along your route (ops.fhwa.dot.gov/511/).
  • Most national parks also have updated road closure information on their websites, and many even have dedicated traffic information phone numbers. These updates usually have the most recent information as they are maintained by in-park personnel.
  • Look to newer fast food restaurants for the best accessible restrooms. Most fast food restaurants are consistent in their restroom design; so find a chain that has the access features you need, and stick with it.
  • If your hotel bathroom isn’t as accessible as you expected on your wheelchair-accessible road trip, stop by a Pilot-Flying J truck stop (pilotflyingj.com). Most have accessible shower rooms with roll-in showers; and although there is a charge to use them, it’s a good alternative in a pinch.

Pack Along These Essentials

  • Pack along a can of Fix-A-Flat tire inflator. It’s a quick and easy way to repair a flat, and it beats waiting for the tow truck.
  • Duct tape is also a glove box essential. Not only can it provide a temporary fix for a leaky radiator hose, but it also comes in handy for on-the-spot wheelchair repairs.
  • A wheelchair repair kit is also essential when you hit the road. And if you need a repair to your wheelchair tire, head to the nearest bicycle shop.
  • Get your America the Beautiful Pass (emerginghorizons.com/how-to-get-a-lifetime-national-park-pass/), as it’s good for free admission to national parks and monuments across America.
  • Don’t forget to take your accessible parking placard with you when you hit the road, as it’s valid throughout the US, except in some places in New York City. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consult the FIA World Parking Guide (disabledmotorists.eu/en/home/) for disabled parking regulations in different states.
  • Finally, don’t forget to pack your sense of humor on your wheelchair-accessible road trip. Be flexible and don’t stress out if things don’t go exactly the way you planned them. After all, travel is all about experiencing new things.
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AutoCamp Zion Excels in Accessibility

AutoCamp Zion Excels in Accessibility

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The Clubhouse at AutoCamp Zion

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.

 

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.

 

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Wheelchair-Accessible Mesa Verde National Park

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Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde National Park

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.

 

Barrier-Free TravelUtah National Parksfor Wheelers and Slow Walkers Buy the Book

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