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
Although not originally built to be wheelchair-accessible, access upgrades were added during the Gardiner’s multi-year renovation project. As Jana puts it, “Since there weren’t any wheelchair-accessible rental homes in Ashford, we just decided to embrace access and make the Jimmy Beech House a welcoming place for everybody.” And with a wheelchair-user friend who acted as their access advisor, they even managed to incorporate the little things — things that are often missed — into the final design.
A Comfortable Retreat
There’s plenty of room to park an adapted van in the driveway at the Jimmy Beech House, with level access to the front door. Inside there’s excellent pathway access throughout the spacious unit, which is decorated with art that highlights the natural beauty of the Mount Rainier National Park area. Access features include wide doorways, lever handles and wood floors for easy rolling. Add in some large picture windows, a bevy of wood accents, and a fireplace with an artistic rock hearth, and you have a very homey — and accessible — place to hang your hat.
The great room is furnished with a large sectional and an easy chair grouped around the fireplace, a dining table with chair and bench seating, and a lowered bar with four bar stools. The adjacent kitchen includes a refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, two microwaves (including one that’s lowered) and a roll-under sink. It’s equipped with all the basics, and includes just about every utensil and small appliance — from a crock pot to a waffle maker — that you could possible need. Truly it’s a chef’s delight. And there’s also a washer and dryer tucked into a nook around the corner.
The master bedroom is furnished with a 23-inch high open-frame king-sized bed with wheelchair-access on both sides. The adjacent bathroom — which was dubbed “the car wash” by Jana’s contractor — was custom designed and includes a large roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench (located near the controls), grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. Other access features include a toilet with grab bars on the back and right sides (as seated), a lowered make-up mirror and a roll-under sink. There’s also a standard hall bathroom that includes a tub with a hand-held showerhead, a toilet and a sink.
The Little Extras
The second bedroom is furnished with two 23-inch high open-framed queen sized beds, with wheelchair-access between them. Wide French doors lead out to the comfortable back patio, which is furnished with some Adirondack chairs. Thoughtful touches like a threshold ramp make the outdoor space as welcoming as the indoor space.
And there are more extras. The former garage has been converted to a game room that’s furnished with a wheelchair-accessible pool table. And even though there’s a five-inch step down to the room, there’s also a portable ramp for wheelchair-access. If you’re not in the mood for pool, there’s also a large selection of games and books available.
The home is also equipped with a large screen porch that has a dining table and four chairs, as well as some casual seating. There’s also level access to the back patio from the screen porch. Access throughout the outside area is excellent, and it’s furnished with a hot tub with steps and a railing, a fire circle and a gas BBQ. Jana even incorporated some of her own access ideas into the design — like the 21-inch high transfer tables for sunning or star-gazing.
Says Jana, “I realize that people with disabilities have a variety of different needs, so I tried to make the home as versatile as possible.” And to say that she did a good job would be a huge understatement. Top it off with the little extras like the makings for s’mores, and you have the perfect home base for a Mount Rainier National Park visit.
Accessible Bedroom at the Jimmy Beech House
Bathroom at the Jimmy Beech House
Living Area at the Jimmy Beech House
Living Area and Fireplace at the Jimmy Beech House
Kitchen at the Jimmy Beech House
Game Room at the Jimmy Beech House
Second Bedroom at the Jimmy Beech House
Enclosed, Screened Patio at the Jimmy Beech House
Fire Circle at the Jimmy Beech House
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Tomichi Point in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Although Grand Canyon National Park (emerginghorizons.com/the-grand-canyon-for-wheelers-and-slow-walkers/) is one the country’s most popular national parks, it’s not the only spectacular gorge managed by the National Park Service. Quite the contrary; in fact little known Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm) boasts some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rocks and craggiest spires in North America. In contrast to the 21-mile wide Grand Canyon, this Colorado chasm is just nine miles across. Couple that with 2,000-foot canyon walls which drop almost vertically to the Gunnison River, and the result is an eye-popping view. And although the canyon itself isn’t wheelchair-accessible, the best views are had from scenic overlooks along the rim, many of which are doable for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
A Scenic Drive
The best way to experience the natural beauty of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is to take the seven-mile scenic drive along the south rim. Just follow Highway 50 west from Montrose, then continue along Highway 347 until it dead ends at the park entrance.
You’ll get your first view of the canyon at Tomichi Point, which is near the entrance, just past the campground. There is accessible parking near the rim, with level access out to the overlook. Not only is this a nice canyon view, but if you’re lucky you’ll also get a glimpse of the hikers on the aptly name Rim Rock Trail below.
Be sure and stop in at the Visitor Center, which is just up the road. There’s plenty of accessible parking there, and there’s level access to a very clean accessible restroom. Inside the visitor center, there is barrier-free access to the theater and good pathway access around the interpretive exhibits. There’s also level access to a large deck which offers an impressive canyon view.
The next accessible stop at Black Canyon of the Gunnison is at Pulpit Rock Overlook. Accessible parking is available on the road, near a hard-packed dirt trail that leads out to the lower overlook and offers a sweeping view of the Gunnison River. There are a few bumps at the beginning of the trail, but it’s doable for most folks. To get to the upper overlook you have to go down some steps and then up a very steep ramp, but the river view is much better from the lower vantage point. There is also an accessible restroom at this stop.
Enjoy the Views
Chasm View in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Chasm View, which is the next stop on the route, offers the most impressive canyon view. Accessible parking is available near the main trail out to the overlook, but there are nine steps down to the viewpoint. The accessible trail, which is located to the left of the main trail, is longer, but there are no steps along the way. From this viewpoint you’ll get a dramatic view down into the chasm with the Gunnison River below.
Sunset View, which is just up the road, is a great spot to sit and enjoy the sunset (hence the name). There is accessible parking near the accessible sidewalk out to the overlook. Here you’ll find two picnic tables, including one that is accessible. There’s a lower overlook to the right, but there are 15 steps along the route and some rocks and roots on the trail. Still, it’s hard to beat the view from the picnic tables. There’s also an accessible restroom in the parking lot.
Picnic Tables at Sunset Point in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Last but not least, don’t forget to stop at High Point, at the end of the road. Although the one-and-a half-mile trail to the overlook isn’t accessible, it’s still worth a stop. There’s accessible parking in the lot, and a dirt path at the far end that leads out to an accessible picnic table. It’s a much nicer spot to picnic than Sunset View, and since it’s away from the trailhead, it’s pretty isolated. Even if you’ve already eaten, this is a good place to take a quiet break before you head back. As an added bonus, the windshield views are totally different on the return trip.
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
Rasar State Park (https://parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/rasar-state-park) offers a peaceful taste of the forest with some great Skagit River views, a few barrier-free hikes, and several wheelchair-accessible deluxe camping cabins. This lush state park is located about 40 miles west of the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center in Newhalem, just off Highway 20. And with a second-growth forest filled with big-leaf maples, Douglas firs and western red cedars, it’s the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer.
Stay in Style
If you’d like to spend the night in Rasar State Park, but don’t want to pitch a tent, then check out one of their three wheelchair-accessible deluxe camping cabins. There’s accessible parking in front of the accessible Chinook Cabin, with paved access over to the front porch. Outside there’s an accessible picnic table and a raised grill, and two oversized Adirondack chairs.
The cabin features a level threshold, wide doorways, lever handles, good pathway access and laminate floors for easy rolling. There’s a small kitchen counter area, with a few cabinets and a sink, with a dinning table and four chairs next to it. The kitchen includes a microwave, a small refrigerator and a K Cup coffee maker (bring your own K Cups).
This rustic cabin features exposed beams and natural wood, and includes hand crafted log furniture. For sleeping, there’s a 16-inch high futon in the living area and a bunk bed near the bathroom. The bunk bed includes a 16-inch high double on the bottom and a single on the top. There’s a night table next to the bunk beds, and a floor lamp in the living area. Top it off with a roomy closet, overhead lights, heating and a ceiling fan, and you have a pretty comfortable setup.
The bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius and includes a 36-inch-square transfer-type shower, with a fold-down shower bench, a hand-held showerhead and grab bars. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated) and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink.
The Coho Cabin, which is located next door has the same access features, but if you want more privacy, choose the Skagit Cabin across the road. On the plus side, all of the cabins are surrounded by the lush forest.
Living Area in the Chinook Cabin at Rasar State Park
Bathroom in the Chinook Cabin at Rasar State Park
Bedroom in the Chinook Cabin at Rasar State Park
Take a Hike
Even though it’s fairly small, Rasar State Park offers a varied landscape with several accessible trails. Most of the trails are located in the south area of the park, near the Skagit River. There’s accessible parking near the picnic area, and level access over to the trailheads. There are also accessible picnic tables on the grass, if you’d like to stop for a short lunch break.
The paved Skagit River Access begins near the picnic area, and winds through the meadow out to the river. It’s about a .3-mile jaunt down to the river, and although you can walk a little further on the hard-packed sand beach, the wheelchair-access ends at that point. After that you’ll encounter steps, bumps, rocks, and a significant uphill climb. Still, it’s a nice accessible out-and-back trail to the river.
Skagit River Trail at Rasar State Park
The Cedar Trail also starts in the picnic area. This hard-packed dirt trail leads through a canopy of trees, before the access ends at the .25-mile point. Still it’s another nice out-and-back walk, and there are a few shaded picnic tables along the way.
Cedar Trail at Rasar State Park
Another accessible trail option is located on the north side of the park. This hard-packed dirt trail loops through the second-growth forest, past the cabins and group campsites. This 1.5-mile trail begins across the road from the Chinook Cabin and to the right of the Skagit Cabin, and continues past the group camps and the private lands that border the park. And if you’d like a shorter hike, it’s easy to exit the trail at the halfway point.
Finally, if you’d like to hike through some old growth forest nearby, be sure to check out Rockport State Park and Baker Lake for some accessible options. It’s a great way to extend a Rasar State Park Visit.
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Located just outside the West Entrance to Glacier National Park (emerginghorizons.com/glacier-national-park/), West Glacier Cabin Village (www.glacierparkcollection.com/lodging/west-glacier-village/ways-to-stay/west-glacier-cabins/) makes the perfect home base for a national park visit. This quiet cabin complex boasts the best of both worlds, as it’s far removed from the hubbub of West Glacier Village, yet it’s within easy walking distance of the shops and restaurants. Access wasn’t overlooked in the construction of the units either, as the complex includes two wheelchair-accessible cabins, which makes it an excellent lodging choice for slow walkers and wheelchair-users.
West Glacier Cabin Village
Nestled in a peaceful mountain forest, West Glacier Cabin Village features accessible parking next to the campstore, with level access to the entrance. Inside there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair over to the cabin check-in counter.
Accessible cabin 103 is located next door. There’s parking in a large level area across from the cabin, and level access over to the cabin. The cabin features ramp access up to a covered front porch that’s furnished with a small table and two chairs. There’s also a propane grill near the cabin.
The cabin features a level threshold, and includes wide doorways, good pathway access and wood floors. The large living area is furnished with a 13-inch high sleeper sofa, a television, and a dining table with four chairs. The cabin also has reliable Wi-Fi, which is a hard-to-find feature in the area.
The kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator, a two burner cooktop, a lowered microwave, and a dishwasher. It also includes an ample selection of dishes, utensils and cookware. And to complete the access equation, the kitchen sink features a kneehole for wheelchair access.
The bedroom, which is located in the back of the unit, is furnished with a 24-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair-access on the right side (as you face it). The bathroom includes a full five-foot turning radius and is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a padded fold-down shower bench. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and the bathroom also includes a roll-under sink with a lowered mirror.
And if cabin 103 is booked, cabin 104 has the same access features. Either unit makes a comfortable, homey and accessible place to stay near Glacier National Park.
Living Room in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Dining Area in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Kitchen Area in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Bedroom in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Bedroom in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village (view 2)
Toilet and Sink in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Shower in Cabin 103 at West Glacier Cabin Village
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Yosemite has always been a popular destination, and in order to manage the crowds in previous years advance vehicle reservations were necessary. These were cheap and easy to get at www.recreation.gov. And once you got to the park at your appointed time, there wasn’t a wait, because the required vehicle reservations metered the traffic.
Fast forward to 2026, and vehicle reservations are no longer required (https://emerginghorizons.com/yosemite-entrance-reservations-not-required-in-2026-but-plan-ahead/). Why? Well it depends who ask, but there was a huge outcry from locals who opposed the reservations, and then apparently the park statistics showed they weren’t needed. In any case, no vehicle reservations are required in 2026, and that’s led to major traffic jams. Because traffic is no longer metered, there’s a huge back-up at the gates. Just last week there were reports of 90-minute waiting times at the gates – and it’s not even peak season.
Once you get in the park, finding parking is another issue, and of course finding accessible parking is always harder. To be honest, I’d really advise against a visit this year. And it’s not that I’m anti-Yosemite, but I’m just being pragmatic. I grew up in the mountains near Yosemite and for most of my life it was my “home national park”. And I love it. I just feel that with it’s over popularity, and non-metered traffic, it’s just really hard to enjoy this gem. Perhaps things will change next year.
That said, if you absolutely must visit Yosemite in 2026, here are a few tips for wheelchair-users, to help minimize your wait times, and more fully enjoy the park.
Spend the Night
Spending the night in the park is best way to maximize your sleep, and still get that much-needed early start in the morning. That said, lodging in Yosemite Valley can be extremely hard to get during peak season. Hard, but not impossible.
The cancellation period for Yosemite Valley hotels and lodges in seven days. That means that people can cancel their reservations with no penalty up to seven days before their visit. So, if you’re looking for Yosemite lodging in the peak months, and can do a spur-of -the-moment trip, then try searching for available properties early in the day, seven days ahead of time. It’s not guaranteed to work, but it’s the best shot at a vacancy. And yes, sometimes wheelchair-accessible rooms get cancellations too.
And my favorite wheelchair-accessible room in the park is room 421 at the Ahwahnee. It has a king bed, a roomy bathroom with a roll-in shower and an impressive view of Half Dome.
Yosemite Shuttle
Park and Walk (or Roll)
If you can’t spend the night inside the park, then you need to get an alpine start for a hassle-free wheelchair-accessible Yosemite visit in 2026. It depends on where you spend the night, but try to get to the park no later than 6 AM. Yes, you read that correctly, 6 AM.
Years ago, you could have the park to yourself at that time; but with the crowded entrance stations today, it only cuts down on the crowds. Still, that’s a good thing. Your goal after getting to Yosemite Valley is to find an accessible parking spot in the Yosemite Village parking lot. And then leave your car there for the day.
The good news is, there are a lot of sites, viewpoints, concessions and attractions in Yosemite Valley; and they are all connected on the wheelchair-accessible Yosemite Valley shuttle (https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/images/valleyshuttle2.jpg). And there’s a shuttle stop near the parking area and in front of the Visitor Center.
The shuttles from 7 AM to 10 PM daily, and there’s usually about a 15-minute wait for a bus. There are two routes in Yosemite Valley – The Valley Shuttle, which covers the whole area, and the East Side Shuttle which stops at Yosemite Village, Curry Village and the campgrounds and trailheads on the east side of the valley
All of the shuttle buses are wheelchair-accessible, and they come equipped with wheelchair-lifts and tie-downs. They can accommodate wheelchairs up to 24 inches wide by 46 inches long, with a weight of up to 750 pounds.
Alternatively it you’d like to get a little exercise, rental handcycles are available at the Curry Village Bike Stand (209-372-8323) and the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand (209-372-1208). It’s best to reserve those in advance though, as supplies are limited and they go quickly.
YARTS bus in Yosemite Valley
Ride YARTS!
Another way to to get the most our of your wheelchair-accessible Yosemite visit is to take public transportation to the park – more specifically YARTS (https://www.yarts.com/). Based in nearby Merced, YARTS stands for Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System, and it has four routes that lead to the park. So you can overnight in a nearby community, ride YARTS to the park, and not worry about any delays at the entrance (public transport takes an express lane) or finding an accessible parking space.
The routes run from Merced, Fresno, Sonora, and Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite Valley, and stop at mountain communities along the way. So you could overnight in a variety of places including, Mariposa, Groveland, El Portal, Oakhurst and June Lake. All YARTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts; however you either need to contact them 48 hours in advance, or indicate on your online reservation that you require wheelchair seating. And attendants traveling with a wheelchair-user get a 50 percent discount. So not only is riding YARTS accessible it’s also affordable.
Although the general public has to hike in to Mirror Lake, if you have an accessible parking placard or license plate, you can drive along the this road. Although you won’t have the lake to yourself, the hike in – even though it’s easy – eliminates a lot of folks. Even better – go early in the day to dodge the bulk of the visitors.
The road up to mirror lake is about a mile long, and motorists will be sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists. You must travel with your hazard light on, and the speed limit is 15 mph along this road. And of course you need to watch out for pedestrians – especially kids – along the way.
About half way up, the roads gets steeper, and bicycles are prohibited beyond this point. Once you get to the top there’s accessible parking near the lake. There are some accessible vault toilets nearby and some picnic tables on level ground that may be doable for wheelchair-users. That said, Mirror Lake is seasonal and it usually dries up by late summer; however the granite views are spectacular from there. It’s well worth the drive.
Although they have some great wheelchair-accessible cabins at Tenaya Lodge, you don’t have to be a lodge guest in order to book one of their tours. The accessible tour bus has a lift and tie downs, so you can stay in your own wheelchair or transfer to a seat.
The day-long accessible tours feature stops at all the popular attractions, a picnic lunch, and time to explore Yosemite Valley on your own on the free wheelchair-accessible shuttle. Plus you don’t have to worry about parking, waiting in the entrance line or driving. Book early though, as this popular tour sells out quickly.
Walk-through Tree at Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park
Visit Mariposa Grove
Last but certainly not least, one of the best ways to enjoy a quieter slice of Yosemite is to get out of the valley and visit Mariposa Grove (https://emerginghorizons.com/escape-to-the-wheelchair-accessible-mariposa-grove/). You can access the grove on the Yosemite Shuttle Bus, but if you have a accessible parking placard, you can drive along the road that is reserved for shuttles, hiker and cyclists.
With an accessible parking placard, you can drive to the Mariposa Grove Arrival Center and check out the accessible Big Trees Loop. From there you can drive to the Grizzly Giant Trailhead and take part of the trail to the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree. Not only are these massive trees, a must-see on any Yosemite itinerary, but you can dodge some of the crowds by driving there.
And as with any Yosemite itinerary, get an alpine start to beat some of the crowds. This is especially important in 2026, when there are no vehicle restrictions at the entrance stations. So plan ahead for a trouble-free wheelchair-accessible Yosemite visit this year.
Located just east of Mariposa in Midpines, AutoCamp Yosemite is a great wheelchair-accessible lodging choice (autocamp.com/location/yosemite/) for a national park visit. Nestled on 35 wooded acres in the Sierras, this unique property features a collection of custom-built Airstream trailers, a few cozy cabins and some upscale luxury glamping tents.
And you just can’t beat the location as it’s only a 20-minute drive to the El Portal Entrance of Yosemite National Park, and another 40 minutes to Yosemite Valley. If, on the other hand, you’d prefer to leave the driving to someone else, you can take the YARTS (www.yarts.com) bus to the park, then use the free wheelchair-accessible Yosemite shuttle bus to explore the popular sites.
YARTS Bus in Yosemite Valley
AutoCamp Yosemite is a luxurious, wheelchair-accessible and convenient lodging option for the quintessential Yosemite visit.
Wheelchair-Accessible Suites
There’s accessible parking in front of the Clubhouse at AutoCamp Yosemite, with ramp access up to this mid-century modern building. Inside you can check-in and then pick up some essentials – including a s’mores kit — in the General Store. And in the evening don’t miss happy hour at the Clubhouse.
All of the accessible units are located near the Clubhouse, along a level paved pathway dotted with mature oaks and ponderosa pines. There are three accessible Premium Suites and two accessible Classic Suites. The main difference between these accessible suites is the location, as the Premium Suites overlook the pond and have more privacy.
The accessible suites feature ramp access up to the spacious deck, wide doorways, wood floors, lowered environmental controls and lever handles. The bedroom includes a 25-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on the left side (as you face it), a wardrobe with a lowered clothing rod, a night table and some built-in shelving units.
The bathroom, which is located at the other end of unit, is equipped with a Continental shower with an overhead showerhead, a hand-held showerhead, grab bars and a fold-down shower seat. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink with a lowered mirror
The living area is furnished with a 15-inch high futon, a small table and a television. The galley includes a roll-under sink, a two-burner cooktop, a microwave and a small refrigerator. It also includes dishes, utensils, pots, pans and wine glasses. Round out the unit with a few extras, like a coffee press and coffee, a flashlight, a lantern, a bottle of spring water and even a blue tooth sound system, and you have a very luxurious and accessible retreat.
(click image for slideshow)
Wheelchair-Accessible Suite at AutoCamp Yosemite
Living and Kitchen Space in Wheelchair-Accessible Suite at AutoCamp Yosemite
Bedroom in Wheelchair-Accessible Suite at AutoCamp Yosemite
Bathroom in Wheelchair-Accessible Suites at AutoCamp Yosemite
Accessible Adventure Tent
AutoCamp Yosemite also has a wheelchair-accessible Luxury Tent, which is located near the Clubhouse. There’s barrier-free access to the front porch from the sidewalk, and level access to the tent. Inside there’s wheelchair-access on both sides of the 23-inch high king-sized bed, and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair throughout the tent.
Other furnishings in the tent include a futon, a coffee table and a refrigerator. Towels, bath amenities, campfire cookware and utensils are also included; and the tent comes equipped with electrical outlets, a fan and a heater. Add in the requisite lantern, mineral water, plush bathrobes and an electric kettle and you’re good to go. And outside there’s level access to a pair of comfy chairs, a fire ring and a grill.
There’s no bathroom in the tent, but accessible facilities are located in the nearby Clubhouse. The men’s and women’s bathrooms both include an oversize accessible stall, and a private roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold down shower bench. Top it off with some roll-under sinks and lowered mirrors, and you have a very accessible setup.
In keeping with the AutoCamp design that fosters a community experience, a communal fire ring and a number of public spaces are located near the Clubhouse. There’s also a lift-equipped freshwater pool at the Clubhouse, as well as an ample assortment of lounge chairs and a comfortable rooftop BBQ area. In the end, there’s no shortage of accessible things to do in and around AutoCamp Yosemite, which makes it an excellent choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers who want to experience the beauty of the California Sierras.
(click image for slideshow)
Accessible Adventure Tent at AutoCamp Yosemite
Interior of an Accessible Adventure Tent at AutoCamp Yosemite
Accessible Shower in the Clubhouse at AutoCamp Yosemite
Vanities in the Clubhouse at AutoCamp Yosemite
Accessible Toilet in the Clubhouse at AutoCamp Yosemite
Barrier-Free Travel Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Travel Ideas for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Named for the giant Rio Grande bend that carves out its southern border, Big Bend National Park is located more than 100 miles from the nearest freeway, hospital or shopping mall. And spring is the ideal time to visit this remote Texas park, as not only is the desert filled with colorful wildflower blooms, but the temperatures are also fairly mild. And despite its seemingly inhospitable environment, Big Bend also boasts wheelchair-accessible trails, overlooks, scenic drives, and even an accessible overnight lodging option. In short, Big Bend is the perfect road trip stop for wheelchair-users and slow walkers, who want to ditch the crowds and enjoy the wide open spaces of the Lone Star State.
Windshield Views Galore!
Sotol Vista Trail
The best way to enjoy this 800,000-acre expanse is to take a drive, and in that respect the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive tops the list. This 30-mile route leads past the Castolon Historic District and Santa Elena Canyon, and passes through some historic and geologic treasures along the way. The drive takes about 45 minutes one-way, but be sure to allow extra time to stop and admire the scenery.
The drive begins just off the main park road, with a south turn at the Castolon – Santa Elena Junction. There are a number of scenic overlooks along the way, including the Homer Wilson Ranch Overlook and Mule Ears Viewpoint — both of which have accessible parking with barrier-free access out to the viewpoints. The former features views of the old ranch house and surrounding land, while the latter offers the best vantage point for a glance at the iconic Mule Ears rock formation.
Located between those two overlooks, Goat Mountain Viewpoint, features accessible parking, with ramp access out to the overlook; while nearby Sotol Vista offers a panoramic southern view with accessible parking, an accessible vault toilet, and barrier-free access to the overlook.
Last but not least, don’t miss the Santa Elena Overlook at the end of the road. From the overlook you can gaze down at the limestone canyon created by the Rio Grande, and look across into neighboring Mexico. Although there’s no curb-cut access from the parking area to the overlook, you can wheel down to where the curb ends and roll out to the overlook. Even though the ground is a bit bumpy in places, it’s still doable for most people, and the spectacular view is well worth the effort.
Scenic Desert Trails
Window View Trail
Although there’s no shortage of great windshield views in the park, there are also a few accessible trails. Panther Path, which is located next to the Panther Visitor Center offers a short – but accessible – introduction to some of the plants found in the park. Accessible parking is located near the visitor center, with level access over to this short 100 yard sidewalk that’s lined with interpretive plaques that identify desert plants.
A portion of the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail is also a good choice for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. It’s located in the southeast area of the park, near Boquillas Canyon. The trailhead is actually located in the campground at Rio Grande Village, across from campsite 18. The trail begins with a short dirt path to the quarter-mile boardwalk over the pond. Some folks may need a bit of assistance over the dirt trail, as it’s a bit bumpy, but the floating boardwalk offers excellent access, and it’s a great spot to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. It’s also an excellent birding location.
Sunsets are phenomenal in Big Bend National Park, and there’s no better place to enjoy one than from the Window View Trail (not to be confused with the inaccessible Window Trail). The trailhead is located near the Basin Store at Chisos Mountains Lodge. This .3-mile paved trail takes its name from the “window” opening in the canyon that affords a panoramic view of the valley below. It offers a gradual descent to the window viewpoint, which is a pleasant place to linger and enjoy views of the spectacular canyon walls and the Chisos Mountains. And if you need to stop and rest, there are also a few benches along the route.
Comfy Accommodations
Because of its remote location, an overnight stay in Big Bend National Park is a must; and to that end Chisos Mountain Lodge (www.chisosmountainslodge.com) offers some comfortable accessible rooms. There’s accessible parking in front of the office, with level access to the main lobby through automatic doors. Inside there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair over to the front desk and the gift shop. The accessible rooms are located a short drive away in the Casa Grande section of the property.
Accessible parking is located in front of room D2 — an accessible ground floor room – with sidewalk access over to the front door. Access features in room D2 include wide doorways, a lowered peephole, lever handles, good pathway access and tile floors for easy rolling. The room is furnished with a 25-inch high open-frame double bed with wheelchair access on the left side (as you face the bed). That said, there’s plenty of room to move the bed if you require wheelchair access on the opposite side. Other furnishings include a night stand, two easy chairs, a dresser, a refrigerator and a microwave.
There’s barrier-free access to the bathroom, which features 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 a portable shower bench is available upon request. A roll-under sink is located in the adjacent sleeping area, in order to free up more room space in the bathroom.
Best of all, this guest room also has level access out to the shared back patio, which is the perfect place to enjoy an sunset, and then take in another one of Big Bend’s natural features – the dark night sky.
(Click image for larger images of Room D2 at the Chisos Mountain Lodge)
Room D2 at the Chisos Mountain Lodge
Room D2 at the Chisos Mountain Lodge (view 2)
Bathroom in Room D2 at the Chisos Mountain Lodge
Barrier-Free Travel Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
My husband and I are planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park. We live in New Hampshire, so we plan to fly out west and rent an accessible van to explore the area. Can you tell me where I can find an accessible rental van in Yellowstone National Park? Also any suggestions for accessible hotels in the park would be greatly appreciated. I use a manual wheelchair and I absolutely love the outdoors.
Rent an Adapted Van
Well if you love the outdoors, then Yellowstone National Park is certainly the place for you. The scenery is beautiful and the park boasts a lot of accessible trails, picnic areas, sights and lodging options.
Unfortunately you won’t find an accessible rental van in Yellowstone National Park. Instead, you can rent one in one of the gateway cities. I suggest flying into Salt Lake City, Utah. It’s about a five-hour drive from the airport to the the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, where you can begin your visit. And you can rent an accessible van from United Access (www.unitedaccess.com) in Wood Cross, which is about 15 minutes from the Salt Lake City Airport.
Finally, let’s talk about accessible lodging in Yellowstone National Park. All of the major park hotels offer accessible rooms; however Canyon Lodge (www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/lodgings/cabin/canyon-lodge-cabins/) is one of my favorites. It’s the largest property in the park, with over 500 rooms, and it’s located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. And even though it’s a large property, there is a wheelchair-accessible shuttle that runs between all the lodge buildings to the dining facilities, retail outlets and the visitor center in nearby Canyon Village. So, you can just park the car when you arrive.
Canyon Lodge offers a variety of accessible rooms. Room 1136 is furnished with two 26-inch high queen-sized beds with an access aisle between them, and has a bathroom that’s equipped with a tub/shower combination with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. Add in a toilet with grab bars and a roll-under sink, and you have a very nice accessible room. If, on the other hand, you’d prefer an accessible room with a roll-in shower, room 4305 will work nicely for you.
Canyon Lodge also has an accessible cabin (cabin 32) which is furnished with with a 24-inch high twin bed (with a trundle), and a 26-inch high open-framed queen-sized bed. The bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. The toilet is outfitted with grab bars, and there’s a roll-under sink in the guest bedroom. It’s a nice premium accessible lodging choice.
Truly, Canyon Lodge has a room to suit just about every taste and budget. There’s also barrier-free access to all the public areas at this property. It’s a great place to base yourself for a wheelchair-accessible Yellowstone adventure.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
