Although there aren’t any hotels inside Denali National Park, several wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging choices are located nearby. And if you’d like to forego the creature comforts of a traditional lodge and sleep under the stars, you can also pitch your own tent inside the park. To that end, here are some of the top wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging choices.
Lobby at the Denali Princess WildernessLodge
Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge
www.princesslodges.com/princess-alaska-lodges/denali-lodge/
Located just a mile north of the park entrance on the George Parks Highway, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge is a convenient and accessible choice. Accessible parking is located near the main lodge, with level access over to the entrance. Inside, there’s barrier-free access to the comfortable seating area around the fireplace, and level access over to the front desk. There’s also elevator access to the downstairs public area, where River Run Espresso is located.
This massive property features 656 guest rooms, which are located in separate buildings dotted throughout the wooded complex. That said, nothing is too far away, as an accessible on-property shuttle is available to all guests.
The newest accessible rooms are located in the B building. Room 206 features wide doorways and good pathway access; and is furnished with a 28-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides. It also includes a 13-inch high sleeper sofa and a desk with a chair. The large bathroom is outfitted with a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench, grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. Other access features include a roll-under sink and toilet grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated). Room 204, which is located next door, includes the same access features, but the toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated).
Room 206 at the Denali Princess Lodge
The Great Room, which features level access, offers coffee and pastries in the morning. There’s also barrier-free access to the adjacent deck, which is a perfect place to sit back and enjoy the view. There’s good wheelchair-access to all the dining venues, including the King Salmon Dining Room, the Grizzly Bar & Grill and Lynx Creek Pizza and Pub. And when you’re ready to visit the park, a wheelchair-accessible shuttle is available.
Next up on the list of wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging options is Denali Park Village. Located just six miles south of the park, the property features accessible parking with barrier-free access over to the entrance. Inside, there’s good pathway access to the front desk, the Lucky Miss Saloon, the Gold Rush Dining Room and the gift shop.
This 338-room property features spacious accessible rooms housed in buildings throughout the wooded campus. And although some of the offerings are a good hike from the main lodge, an accessible on-site shuttle bus is also available. The 700 building, which is located near the main lodge, offers a number of wheelchair-accessible rooms, and it’s the only building with elevator access,
Room 706 features wide doorways and good pathway access. It’s furnished with a 25-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides. Additionally, there’s a small roll-under sink in the main room area. The room also has a small deck area that overlooks the river, and although there is a one-inch lip out to it, it’s doable for most people.
The bathroom features a full five-foot turning radius and is outfitted with a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench, grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. There’s also a larger roll-under sink in the bathroom, and the toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated). And if you need toilet grab bars on the other side, room 712 is a mirror image of room 706.
Bathroom in room 706
A portable shower chair is available for any room upon request, and refrigerated medicine can be stored at the front desk. Wheelchair-accessible shuttle service to and from Denali National Park is also available upon request
If you prefer a smaller family owner wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging option, then look no further than the Denali Grizzly Bear Resort, which is just across the street from Denali Park Village. There’s ramped access up to the front office and barrier-free access over to the front desk. Opened as a campground in 1968, today this property boasts a hotel and cabins, along with the campsites. And although the resort has grown, there’s still an emphasis on friendly individualized service there.
Room B4 is located in the Cedar Hotels, which is a short drive from the office. Parking is available in a level dirt area across from the room, and there’s ramp access up to the front door. The cavernous room includes wide doorways and room enough for even the largest wheelchair or scooter to wheel around with ease.
Room A4 at the Grizzly Bear Resort
Furnishings include two 24-inch high double beds with an access aisle between them, a chest of drawers and an easy chair. This room also features an expansive river view from the private deck. The bathroom has a full five-foot turning radius and includes a roll-in shower with a padded fold-down shower bench, a hand-held showerhead and grab bars. Add in a roll-under sink and toilet grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated), and you have a very accessible room.
Bathroom in room A4 at the Grizzly Bear Resort
Again, the emphasis is on personal service at the Denali Grizzly Bear Resort. A portable shower chair is available for any room upon request, and there’s also a loaner wheelchair in the office. And if you’d like a few suggestions about things to do in the area, don’t be afraid to hit up the manager. Not only is he a life-long local resident, but as he’s intimately familiar with the wheelchair-accessibility of businesses and attractions nearby.
Finally, if you’d prefer to camp out and enjoy the great outdoors, then the Riley Creek Campground, which is located near the park entrance, is the perfect choice. Although the campground is open year-round, the restrooms and showers are only open in the summer, so realistically it’s only a seasonal option.
That said, it’s a beautiful — and very quiet — campground, which features a number of accessible campsites with raised tent platforms, accessible picnic tables and grills. Some campsites can also accommodate a RV. Reservations can be made online; and as an added bonus, folks with an America the Beautiful Access Pass or a Senior Pass get 50% off of all camping fees.
Riley Creek Campground is located next to the Mercantile, which offers level access and carries a good variety of groceries, sundries and camping supplies. But by far one of the best features of the campground — the heated shower house— is located next to the Mercantile.
There’s level access to both the men’s and the women’s side of the shower house. Both sides are outfitted with a large accessible toilet stall with grab bars, and a larger shower with a fold-down bench. Although there is a one-inch lip on the accessible shower, most folks will be able to transfer directly to the fold-down shower bench.
Riley Creek Campground is also located between two shuttle bus stops, and all of the park shuttles are wheelchair-accessible. In the end, no matter what lodging choice you make, plan to stay at lest two or three nights to enjoy all that the park has to offer. And remember to make your reservations early, as these wheelchair-accessible Denali lodging choices fill up fast.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Billed as America’s only multi-national scenic drive, the International Selkirk Loop (selkirkloop.org) traverses Northeastern Idaho and Washington, and dips into a swath of Southern British Columbia. This 280-mile loop is known for its spectacular scenery, big skies, crystal clear waterways and of course the namesake Selkirk Range.
Although it can be easily done as a stand alone trip, because of its proximity to Interstate 90, it can also be incorporated into a longer road trip. The scenery along the route is beautiful year-round; however summer is prime time for this drive, as many business and attractions are closed in the other seasons. Wheelchair-users and slow walkers are in luck too, as there are numerous accessible stops along the way. With that in mind, here’s a three-day wheelchair-accessible itinerary for this Pacific Northwest scenic drive.
Day 1 — Post Falls, ID to Bonners Ferry, ID
To get to the International Selkirk Loop from Interstate 90, take exit 5 in Post Falls, Idaho. From there, follow Highway 41 north through Rathdrum, Spirit Lake, and Blanchard to Highway 2 in Oldtown. To go directly to the Selkirk Loop, make a right on Highway 2; however if you’d like a fun little detour just a mile off the route, continue straight and follow the signs to Pioneer Park
An Accessible Forest Hike
The Kalispel Heritage Trail in Pioneer Park
One of the great things about Pioneer Park is that since it’s a US Forest Service area, there’s no charge to enter if you have an America the Beautiful Access Pass. The other great thing about the park is the accessible Kalispel Heritage Trail. It’s easy to find — just take the first left after you enter the park, and look for the trailhead on the left, across from the campground.
The hard-packed dirt loop is about .3 miles long, and although there are elevation changes here and there, it’s still within the access guidelines. The shaded trail winds through the forest, with interpretive plaques about the the language and culture of the native Kalispel people along the way. Important native vegetation is also identified. An accessible boardwalk that offers some great views of the Pend Oreille River is located halfway along the trail. And if you’d like to stop and enjoy the peaceful view, there are benches near the overlook.
A Great Dam Lunch on the International Selkirk Loop
Albeni Falls Dam
After your hike, head back out to Highway 2, then make a left to begin your journey on the International Selkirk Loop. About 15 minutes up the road, you’ll find Albeni Falls Dam (facebook.com/AlbeniFallsDam) on your right. Not only does it make a nice scenic stop, but it’s also a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch.
There’s level access to a shaded picnic area from the upper parking lot; however most folks completely miss the lower picnic choice down by the dam. The trail to the right of the upper picnic area is too steep for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to descend; however you don’t have to walk down as there is an accessible road to the left of the visitor center. Just follow the sign to the powerhouse.
At the bottom of the road there’s level access to a picnic area that offers an expansive view of the Pend Oreille River, Albeni Falls Dam, and of course the powerhouse. It’s a pleasant place to stop, even if you don’t plan to picnic. And if you need to use the facilities, accessible restrooms are located inside the visitor center near the upper parking area.
A Little History and Horticulture
Exhibits in the Bonner County History Museum
Continue along Highway 2, through the pine and fir forest for about 40 minutes to get to your next stop — the Bonner County History Museum (bonnercountyhistory.org) and the North Idaho Native Plant Arboretum. Located in Lakeview Park in Sandpoint, both of these sites can be accessed from the parking lot on South Ella Avenue.
There’s a paved pathway from the accessible parking spot to the accessible entrance of the Bonner County History Museum. Inside there’s plenty of room to roll around the first-floor galleries; however the small second floor exhibit can only be accessed by stairs. There’s also a wheelchair-accessible family restroom downstairs.
The first floor contains a mix of permanent and rotating exhibits; but perhaps the most interesting installation is “Digging into the Past”. When a nearby highway was widened in 2006, archeologists set to work to unearth treasures from the past. Their finds are showcased in this exhibit, which is arranged by the different geographical areas in town. Highlights include a Dr. Scholl’s Foot-Ezer, a collection of opium pipes discovered near the former Chinese laundry, and some interesting objects unearthed in the brothel district.
Add in some permanent installations about the work of the forest service, a little watercraft and railroad history, and a a primer on logging in North Idaho, for a comprehensive look at the history of the area.
Outside there are level pathways through the mostly shaded arboretum,. There are a few dips and ruts in the dirt pathways, but for the most part they are easy to dodge. The historic cabin is not accessible, but it’s usually locked. The five-acre arboretum features North Idaho native and medicinal plants, and also includes herbs, fruit trees and edibles. And there are lots of benches if you’d just like to sit and relax.
Walk on the Wild Side
Chickadee Trail in the Kootenai Wildlife Refuge
The next stop on the International Selkirk Loop — the Kootenai Wildlife Refuge (www.fws.gov/refuge/kootenai) — is just a 45-minute drive up the road. Continue east on Highway 2 for about 35 minutes, until you get to Bonners Ferry; then make a left on Pine Island Road (just past the ranger station). To be honest this turn is easy to miss, so it’s best to turn into the ranger station for easier access to the road. From there, make a right on Mirror Lake Road and and left on Riverside Drive. The refuge headquarters is about four miles up the road on the right.
There’s accessible parking near the refuge office and accessible restrooms next door. A sheltered accessible spotting scope is also located on the far side of the parking lot. The accessible Chickadee Trail begins just to the left of the refuge office. This 1,000-foot paved cement loop winds through the pines and around the pond, with interpretive plaques along the way.
The Myrtle Falls Trail is located across the street. This wide paved trail winds through the forest and out to a bridge that offers a great view of roaring Myrtle Creek below. The trail loses its access on the other side of the bridge, but it’s a nice .25-mile round-trip jaunt out to the roaring rapids.
Finally, make sure and drive the 4.5-mile auto loop before your leave the refuge. There are a number of interpretive plaques at pullouts along the way, and some great windshield views. Be on the lookout for Northern harriers, red-tailed hawks and American kestrels hunting over the wide open fields. And keep your eye out for the resident bald eagle pair that nests there in the spring.
A Blast From the Past
Exhibit in the Boundary County Museum
Finally, for a taste of local history on the International Selkirk Loop, make a stop at the Boundary County Museum (boundarycountymuseum.org) before you call it a day. Just backtrack on Riverside Drive along the levee for about 30 minutes until you get to town. Make a right on Main Street, and take the next left on Bonner Street. Although the museum is located on Main Street, the best accessible parking is behind the museum, next to the visitor center.
There’s barrier-free access throughout the museum, and accessible restrooms inside. This local mainstay includes a little bit of everything, from a large exhibit about the Kootenai Tribe and a collection of hand made clocks by Ned Dyer, to a still discovered nearby, lots of vintage furniture, appliances and dishes, and even some seats from the old Bonner County High School Auditorium. And don’t miss the recreation of the Historic White Caribou Saloon, which includes a variety of taxidermy, including the namesake white caribou.
Be aware that the museum has limited hours — usually Thursday through Saturday — so make sure and time your visit accordingly. Even if it’s not open, there is level access from the accessible parking in back to some outside exhibits that focus on early railroads and farming methods. There’s also level access to a covered picnic table on a cement pad. It’s just a fun — and educational — stop.
And if you’d like more maps and information on North Idaho and British Columbia, then pop in to the visitor center just across the parking lot from the museum. There’s level access to the lobby and accessible restrooms around the corner. To complete your first day 125-mile drive, hop back on Highway 2 and continue around the curve, to the Kootenai River Inn on your left.
Spend the Night
The Kootenai River Inn (kootenairiverinn.com) is a great place to overnight. Not only does it offer good access, but it also includes a few restaurants and a casino. Accessible parking is located near the lobby door, with barrier-free access over to the front desk. And although there’s a barrier-free pathway to accessible room 125 from the lobby, there’s also additional accessible parking closer to the room.
Room 125 at the Kootenai River Inn
Access features in room 125 include wide doorways, lever handles, low-pile carpet for easy rolling, a lowered closet rod and good pathway access. It’s furnished with a 28-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, a chest of drawers and an easy chair with an ottoman. The spacious room also includes a table with two chairs, a microwave and a refrigerator.
There’s level access out to a private balcony that’s furnished with a table and two chairs. And although there’s room enough for a wheelchair out there, you’ll probably have to move the patio furniture around a bit. Best of all, the balcony boasts a peaceful river view.
The oversized bathroom includes a full five-foot turning radius and is equipped with a large roll-in shower with grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. A shower chair is also available upon request. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and a roll-under sink is located right outside the bathroom.
Vanity area and Bathroom in Room 125
There’s good access to all the public areas of the property, including the Springs Restaurant, the Riverside Deli and the casino. Breakfast is also included with your stay. The staff is attentive, and the Kootenai River Inn is a comfortable and accessible place to spend the night.
Day 2 — Bonners Ferry, ID to Balfour, BC
After a good nights rest, continue along Highway 2 on the International Selkirk Loop. The route only covers 90 miles today; however it also involves a border crossing so it doesn’t hurt to get an early start.
Crossing the Border
From Bonners Ferry continue on Highway 2, cross the Kootenay River, then head east on Highway 95. About 75 miles up the road, take Highway 1 to the Porthill-Rykerts border crossing. It’s just under a two-hour drive.
Although Canadian entry requirements may vary due to COVID outbreaks, currently there are no restrictions, extra paperwork or health screenings required to enter Canada by car. All vehicle occupants are required to have a passport, and you will also be asked questions about alcohol, firearms, and other items you may be carrying.
Border crossing times can vary, depending on traffic and staffing. A list of wait times and delays at Canadian ports of entry can be found at cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/bwt-taf/menu-eng.html. And it’s also a good idea to keep updated on the latest border crossing requirements. More information can be found at cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/menu-eng.html. The good news is that the once you arrive at the Porthill-Rykerts border crossing it’s a fairly expeditious process, as there’s not a lot of traffic there.
Creston Wildlife Management Area
Boardwalk at the Creston Discovery Center
After you enter Canada, US Highway 1 transitions into Canadian Highway 21. From the border it’s a short 20 minute hop up to the Corn Creek section of the Creston Wildlife Management Area (crestonwildlife.ca). It’s located off of Highway 3, just northeast of Creston.
There’s no striped parking in the paved lot next to the Discovery Center at Corn Creek, but there’s usually plenty of room to parallel park an adapted vehicle. The Discovery Center — which has exhibits and information — is ramped, and there’s an accessible porta-potty in the parking lot. The boardwalk trail is right behind the Discovery Center.
Theoretically the whole boardwalk loop is accessible, as it’s relatively flat; however a large patch of tall grass at the midway point makes it impassable for most wheelchair-users and slow walkers. That said, you can do this trail as two out-and-back sections.
To do the first section, make a left turn after you cross the bridge behind the Discovery Center. The short hard-packed dirt trail is level but narrow, and it soon transitions to a boardwalk over the marsh. The accessible part of this half-mile round trip jaunt ends at the end of the boardwalk, when you hit the tall grass, near the viewing tower. It’s a half-mile round-trip hike.
To access the second section of the boardwalk loop, turn right after you cross the bridge behind the Discovery Center. A .3-mile dirt and boardwalk trail leads to the viewing tower near the tall grass. From there you can continue on the .4-mile hard-packed dirt Songbird Stroll out to West Creston Road. If you do the whole length it’s a nice 1.4-mile out-and-back hike. And when you’re done, stop for lunch at the shaded picnic table near the Discovery Center.
Hop on a Ferry
To continue on the International Selkirk Loop, head east on Highway 3, then go north on Highway 3A. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive to Kootenay Bay, where you can catch the longest free ferry in the world. The drive along the way is nothing to sneeze at though, as the road winds through a lush forest and offers a peek at Kootenay Lake every now and again.
The Kootenay Lake Ferry www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/passenger-travel/water-travel/inland-ferries/kootenay-lake-ferry) runs from Kootenay Bay to Balfour year-round; however it operates on a reduced schedule in the winter. In the summer the ferry operates on a hourly schedule from 7:10 AM to 10:20 PM; however since this is the peak season there may be a wait for the next ferry, so allow some extra time. The summer schedule begins the third week of June, and ends after Labor Day.
The crossing itself takes just 35 minutes, and as indicated earlier, it’s free. Access isn’t really an issue as most folks just stay in their vehicles, roll down their car windows and enjoy the ride; in fact in some cases the cars are parked so close together that you can’t open your car door. Still it’s a pleasant crossing, and you just can’t beat the price.
Overnight in Canada on the International Selkirk Loop
View from room 206 at the Kootenay Lake Resort
Once you arrive in Balfour, it’s just a short drive to your home for the night — the Kootenay Lakeview Resort (kootenaylakeviewresort.com). Not only does it boast a nice accessible room, but as the name implies, it also has an impressive view of Kootenay Lake.
There are no stripes in the lower lobby parking lot, but there’s room enough to parallel park an adapted vehicle, and there’s level access over to the front door. Inside there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair over to the front desk and the adjacent breakfast area.
Room 206 — an accessible king — is located a short drive away, with accessible parking near the building. There’s ramp access up to the building, and a slight lip at the room door. Access features include wide doorways, lever handles, low-pile carpet for easy rolling and good pathway access.
Room 206 at the Kootenay Lake Resort
The room is furnished with a 26-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair-access on the right side (as you face it). Other furnishings include a table, an easy chair, a desk with a chair and a chest of drawers. There’s also a microwave and a refrigerator in the room. A threshold ramp leads out to the balcony which includes two plastic chairs and a small table, and offers plenty of room for a wheelchair. And you just can’t beat that lake view!
The bathroom has a wide pocket door and a full five-foot turning radius. It’s equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. Other access features include toilet grab bars on the right wall (as seated), a lowered towel rod and a roll-under sink.
Bathroom in room 206 at the Kootenay Lake Resort
Top it all off with a light breakfast in the morning, and you have a very comfy place to rest your head.
Day 3 — Balfour, BC to Newport, WA
Get an early start on the final day of your International Selkirk Loop drive, as it’s the longest leg of the drive — 135 miles — with lots to see and do along the way.
Take a Hike
The Pond Flume Trail at the Mill Pond Historic Site
From Balfour, head west on Highway 3A to Nelson, then take Highway 6 south to the Nelway-Metaline border crossing. The drive takes about an hour and twenty minutes, and again, the lush forest lines the road for most of the trip.
The border crossing back into the US is pretty straightforward. No extra paperwork is required — you just need your passport or drivers license. There’s usually not much of a line at this outpost, but you can check wait times and operating hours at cbp.gov. It’s always a good idea to check the website before you travel, as entry requirements can change.
Continue south on Highway 31 for about 10 miles, make a left on Sullivan Lake Road, then continue on for about three miles. The Mill Pond Historic Site (https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/colville/recreation/mill-pond-historic-site) will be on your right. Go all the way down to the lower parking lot, where you will find accessible parking next to two trailheads.
The most accessible trail — the Mill Pond Flume Loop — begins just across the bridge, about a quarter-mile from the parking lot. This level hard-packed dirt loop winds through the former work camp of the old mill. Interpretive plaques that describe the flume construction and maintenance procedures are located along the way. It’s a pleasant .6-mile loop through the forest, but be sure to apply insect repellent before you set out, as the mosquitoes are thick in the shady sections.
Additionally, if you’d like to dine alfresco there’s also a nice covered picnic area with accessible tables in the upper parking lot. An accessible vault toilet is also located nearby.
Metaline Falls
If, on the other hand, you’d like to have someone else do the cooking, then head on down the road to the quaint hamlet of Metaline Falls. For the best access, parallel park on Washington Street, near the visitor center in Busta Park. From there, it’s a short level walk to the Farmhouse Cafe (facebook.com/farmhousecafe221), which is located across the street on 5th Avenue.
There’s ramp access to this local eatery, with plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair inside. Menu choices range from burgers and hot or cold sandwiches, to plated dishes served with soup or salad. The servers are friendly and the portions are substantial. Make sure and save room for a slice of home made pie for dessert.
After lunch, save some time to browse through the visitor center in the park. There’s ramp access up to the old rail car that houses the visitor center, and room enough to maneuver a wheelchair around the exhibits. There’s lots of visitor information, maps, historic photos of the area, and some old relics. And if you are in need of reading material, there’s also a nice collection of books that are free for the taking.
Where the Buffalo Roam
Kalispel Buffalo Herd
Continue south on Highway 31 to catch a gander at the Kalispel Tribe’s buffalo herd in Cusick. Turn left on Kings Lake Road in Usk, which is about 45 miles from Metaline. From there, cross the Pend Oreille River and make the first left on Le Clerc Road. It’s about 1.5 miles to Camas Center, which is near the area where the herd is located. The heard began with just 12 buffalo that were presented to the tribe by the National Park Service in 1974. Today it has grown to over 100 head, which roam throughout the reservation.
Of course, since the buffalo are mobile, they’re not in the same place every day. Sometimes you can spot them from the Camas Center parking lot, while other times you’ll get a better view a little further up the road. There’s a level place to pull over just north of Camas Center, which sometimes offers a close look at the massive beasts. And if they wander further south, there’s a nice wide level spot to pull out near the mailboxes.
Truth be told you never know where they will be grazing on any particular day. So just consider it a treasure hunt on the International Selkirk Loop. Actually, tracking them down is half the fun. And if you visit in spring, bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for the newborn calves.
A Little History and a Scoop
Newport, which is just 20 miles away, marks the official end to the International Selkirk Loop. That said, take some time to explore the history museum and have a sweet treat, before you head on your way.
Located next to the Newport Visitor Center on Highway 2 and Washington Street, the Pend Oreille County Historical Museum (pochsmuseum.org) offers visitors a peek into the past of Northeastern Washington. Accessible parking is located in front of the museum, at the far end of the parking lot across from the train depot.
There’s level access to the front door, with plenty of room to navigate around the first-floor and outdoor exhibits. Inside you’ll find everything from rodeo gear, vintage toys and cooking tools, to an old dentist office and even a Newport Miner printing press. Outside there are a variety of vintage buildings, including three log cabins, the Claire Howe Schoolhouse and a pioneer church. The ground around the exhibits is level, but there are a few rocks here and there. Vintage artifacts are tucked into every nook and cranny, and if you get tired there are plenty of places to sit and rest.
When you’re done browsing through the museum, be sure and stop in at Owen’s (facebook.com/owensgro), which is located across the street. There’s level access to this deli and grocery store, but the main attraction is the soda fountain, which offers a wide variety of ice cream treats. From a huckleberry ice cream cone to a hot fudge sundae or even a banana split, there’s something to please just about everyone. And it’s the perfect way to top off any International Selkirk Loop adventure.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
Located about 1.5 miles from the entrance to Red Canyon along Scenic highway 12, Red Canyon Village (www.redcanyonvillage.com) makes a great home base for a Utah national park road trip. It’s just a 20 minute drive to Bryce Canyon National Park so you don’t have to get a 4 AM start to beat the rush. Plus, you can easily wander over to Red Canyon to enjoy the sunset at the end of the day. And since it’s a small complex with some RV spaces and cabins, Red Canyon village is a peaceful and secluded spot to spend the night. Even better — they also have a nice wheelchair-accessible log cabin.
Red Canyon Village
Although there’s a small step up to the front office in Red Canyon Village, just call (435) 676-2243 and the clerk will gladly bring out your key. Log Cabin 12 — the accessible unit — is located a short walk from the office. And although there aren’t any paved parking spaces in the complex, there’s plenty of room to park parallel next to the accessible cabin.
There’s level access to the cabin, which boasts open beams and a wood interior. Access features include wide doorways, laminate floors, lever handles, a lowered clothing rod and good pathway access. The main room is divided into two areas; with the bedroom and living area on one side and a small kitchenette on the other side.
Living area in Cabin 12 at Red Canyon Village
The living area is furnished with a 26-inch high open-frame king-sized bed, which can be moved to allow wheelchair access on either side. Other furnishings include, a nightstand, a mirror, a luggage rack and a loveseat. The kitchenette is furnished with a table, two chairs, a microwave, a refrigerator and a coffee maker. It has everything you need for a snack, a quick meal, or a morning coffee break.
Kitchenette in Cabin 12 at Red Canyon Village
There’s barrier-free access to the bathroom, which is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a portable shower bench. It also includes a roll-under sink, and a toilet with a grab bar on the left wall (as seated).
Bathroom in Cabin 12 at Red Canyon Village
Top things off with a roomy paved front porch with plenty of room for a wheelchair, and you’re good to go. There’s also a standard picnic table on a cement pad next to the porch, with room for a wheelchair on the end. And if you forget anything, there’s level access to the The Red Canyon Indian Store and Rock Shop next door.
Barrier-Free Travel Utah National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Located in Southwestern Utah, Zion National Park was the Beehive State’s first national park. Although a good percentage of the park is designated as wilderness, there are many developed areas which can be visited with a minimal effort. At the top of the list is Zion Canyon, a 15-mile drive bordered by spectacular sandstone cliffs. Over on the west side of the park, Kolob Canyons offers a more bucolic view of the Colorado Plateau; while the eastern Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway connects Zion with Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon. No matter where you look, there’s no shortage of breathtaking scenery in this national park.
Insider Tips
Don’t miss the free Ride with a Ranger Tours that are offered twice daily on the park shuttle buses. These two-hour narrated tours include several stops along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Advance reservations are required, and they can be made up to three days in advance. And the good news is, all park shuttle buses are lift-equipped, so everyone can enjoy these tours.
If you want to dodge the crowds, then explore the five-mile long Kolob Canyons Scenic Byway, located in the northwestern corner of the park. This scenic route climbs 1,000 feet in elevation and offers great views of the red Navajo sandstone canyon walls along the way. There are a number of paved pullouts on the route, and although none of them are striped, they are strategically placed so you can get good windshield views.
For a very accessible place to rest your head, consider staying in cabin 529 at Zion Lodge. This historic cabin dates back to the 1920s, and it includes a queen-sized bed and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. As an added bonus, this lodge is one of the most scenic national park properties around, as it’s surrounded by Zion Canyon.
America’s first national park spans nearly 3,500 square-miles, the bulk of which occupies the northwestern corner of Wyoming. Known for its geothermal wonders the park is a filled with gurgling geysers, bubbling mudpots and hidden hot springs. But Yellowstone is much more than geysers, as it also features dramatic canyons, lush forests, and fertile valleys that are home to bears, wolves, elk, antelope and an extremely healthy bison population. And with a handful of western highways leading to the park, there’s plenty of opportunity to explore this diverse ecosystem.
Insider Tips
Although there’s accessible parking near the Brink of the Upper Falls Viewpoint in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the viewpoint itself is not accessible due to stairs and a steep grade. That said, you can get a better – and quieter — view if you continue along the North Rim Trail, past the left turnoff to the brink. And if you’d like a short hike through the woods that crosses Canyon Bridge and offers excellent views of the Yellowstone River and the Chittenden Bridge, then just continue along this accessible trail for another half-mile.
For a break from the congested traffic along the road to Old Faithful, take a short detour along Firehole Lake Drive. This one-way loop begins about a mile south of Fountain Paint Pot, and features accessible stops at Firehole Spring, Giant Fountain Geyser and Firehole Lake. As an added bonus, this route is pleasantly devoid of the bus loads of tourists that frequent the other area attractions, as larger vehicles are prohibited on this road.
If you’d like to overnight in the park in an accessible room with a great view, then choose room 202 at the Yellowstone Lake Hotel. This corner room, which features a bird’s eye view of Yellowstone Lake, is furnished with a 25-inch high king-sized bed and is equipped with an accessible tub/shower combination.
Located east of the Salinas Valley between Hollister and King City, Pinnacles is California’s newest national park. Formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, the extruded magma was further sculpted over time by the wind and rain. Today these pinnacle-like geological features seem to magically rise out of the chaparral-covered ground. A healthy chunk of backcountry occupies the center section of the park, and serves as a divider between the more developed east and west sections. Wildlife – including everything from the common black-tailed dear to the endangered California condor – thrives in this rural location. And you just can’t beat the night skies, as the park is located miles away from the light pollution of the metropolitan cities.
Insider Tips
Pinnacles National Park is a prime site to spot some of the still endangered California condors. One location they seem to favor is the ridge just southeast of the campground. The best times to look for them are in the early mornings and late afternoons when they like to catch the thermals, or in the evenings when they come in to roost in the trees. And if you’d like a closer look at them, there’s an accessible viewing scope just across the street from the East Pinnacles Visitor Center.
The longest accessible trail in the park — the Prewitt Point Trail — is located on the West Side. This one-mile loop begins off the patio of the West Pinnacles Visitor Contact Station, and winds along the hillside and offers excellent mountain views. There’s about a 70-foot elevation gain along the way, with level spots to rest after each uphill stint. This hard-packed dirt trail passes the trailhead to the Jawbone Trail, then continues on to the Pinnacles Overlook, before it winds back down to the start. It’s best to take this trail in the morning though, as there’s precious little shade along the way.
Pinnacles Campground boasts 10 accessible tent cabins in loop B. They all have a ramped entry, as well as steps up to the wide front door. There’s level access over the thresholds and all of the tent cabins include two singles and a queen-sized bed, with ample room to maneuver a wheelchair inside. The solar powered units also include a fan and a light. Outside there are two Adirondack chairs, an accessible picnic table, a grill and a bear box at each site. And although the cabins contain beds with mattresses, guests must provide their own bedding.
Located about three hours northeast of Sacramento, Lassen Volcanic National Park offers visitors a diverse landscape dotted with active geothermal features. Dominated by Mount Lassen which erupted in 1915, the park boasts an impressive collection of steam vents, mudpots and boiling springs, many of which are readily accessible. Add in wildflower-filled meadows, pristine mountain lakes, and the ruins of the last eruption and you have a park that truly stimulates all of the senses.
Insider Tips
Sulphur Works, which is one of the most active geothermal areas in the park, is a must-see for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. There’s accessible parking in the paved lot, with barrier-free access to a level sidewalk that leads past mudpots, steam vents and boiling springs. The crosswalk has curb-cut access, so wheelchair-users can enjoy the geothermal features on both sides of the street. All in all it’s a quarter-mile out-and-back jaunt; and although other areas of the park boast these geothermal features, this is the only accessible option.
One of the most accessible trails in the park is located in the Devastated Area, about 10 miles south of the Loomis Museum. The hard-packed dirt trail leads past the area devastated by the 1915 eruption of Mount Lassen. Interpretive plaques with audio descriptions are located along the trail, and signs of the eruption and the subsequent rebirth of the forest are evident along this easy half-mile loop. Additionally there are a few accessible picnic tables located near the trailhead, so it also makes for a nice lunch stop.
Spend the night on the shore of Manzanita Lake in one of four accessible camping cabins. All of the accessible cabins have parking in a level area with ramp access up to the front porch. They include level thresholds, wide doorways and adequate pathway access. The one-room cabins are furnished with a 19-inch high double bed, while the two room cabins include a 19-inch high double bed and three single beds. They all include a dining table with chairs, and a propane heater. Each cabin has a locking door, screened windows and a bare wood floor. Add in an accessible picnic table and a fire ring and you have everything you need to rough it in style.
Known as the “Crown of the Continent” because the Continental Divide bisects the park, Glacier National Park encompasses more than a million acres of coniferous forests, alpine meadows, pristine lakes and glacier-carved peaks. The wildlife in the park is just as diverse at the landscape that supports it, and it includes elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and one of the largest remaining grizzly populations in the lower 48 states.
Insider Tips
A well kept secret along Going-to-the-Sun Road, Red Rock Point offers a beautiful view of McDonald Creek cascading down over the massive red rocks. The turnout is located about a mile north of the Trail of the Cedars on the left side of the road. Keep your eyes peeled when you get close, as there is absolutely no signage to mark the overlook. There’s accessible parking near a hard-packed dirt path that leads .06 miles out to a boardwalk viewing platform.
Although the historic Red Buses of Glacier National Park are not wheelchair-accessible, Xanterra Parks and Resorts has two wheelchair-accessible vehicles in their. The lift-equipped buses have roll-up plastic flaps on the windows, and passengers get a full view of everything around them, thanks to an on-board camera and monitors Even better — the accessible vehicle is booked solely for your party, so you get a private tour at the regular tour price.
In addition to an entrance fee or a park pass, a day use entrance reservation is also required for Glacier National Park visitors during peak visitation periods in the summer. Entrance reservations are currently required for the West Entrance Station, the Camas Entrance Station and Many Glacier Valley. That said the park adjusts the system annually, so check the park website for the most current information. Entrance reservations are not available at the park. They must be purchased at recreation.gov in advance. Visitors without an entrance reservation will not be admitted.
Located on the main drag of the Gold Rush town of Murphys, the Victoria Inn (www.victoriainn-murphys.com/) fits right in with the vintage buildings that line the thoroughfare. And aside from the allure of its decidedly old world ambiance, it also makes a great home base for exploring the area. Not only is the property located within walking distance of many favorite restaurants and tasting rooms, but it’s also just a short hop off of Highway 4, which connects to other Calaveras County must-sees. And although the Victorian Era wasn’t exactly know for its stellar wheelchair access, this namesake property does a nice job accommodating the needs of wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
Finding the Property
Admittedly, finding this property can be a challenge if you are unfamiliar with the area, and are relying on GPS. Granted GPS will technically take you to the front door; however you can’t exactly see the front door from Main Street. The Victoria Inn is located across the street from Murphys Mall, between Murphys Village Toy Store and Shirt Tales Boutique; however the approach to the parking lot is marked “no outlet” and it looks like a private driveway.
Nonetheless, that is the correct spot to turn. If you miss it, then turn on Church Street, go around the block and try again. The small parking lot includes one accessible space that’s usually open, and from there it’s just a short walk to the registration area. There’s no guaranteed public parking with a room reservation, so try and grab the accessible parking space as soon as you can. There’s also some public parking in the lot on Church Street, but if you choose that option, try and drop off any wheelchair-users or slow walkers first.
Spend the Night
Entry to room 15 at the Victoria Inn
There’s ramp access up to the main building of the Victoria inn, and level access through the front door to the registration desk. There’s also barrier-free access to a large room off the front lobby which is furnished with sofas and chairs and has all the essentials for a relaxing stay. There are cookies, water, ice, board games, coffee, cocoa, a microwave and of course the requisite wine glasses available for guest use.
Room 15 (also called Mae’s Room) is located in a small cottage around the corner. Although the accessible parking spot is near the registration desk, there’s paved standard parking in front of the cottage that may be more convenient for guests. There’s ramp access up to the front door, and level access to the room. Access features include wide doorways, lever handles and adequate pathway access.
Inside room 15 at the Victoria Inn
The room is furnished with a 24-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on the left (as you face it), a chest of drawers and two end tables. The bathroom has a full five-foot turning radius, a tile floor and a pedestal sink. The 36-inch-square transfer-type shower has a slight half-inch lip, and is equipped with a fold-down shower seat (with easy transfer access from the bathroom), and a hand-held showerhead. There’s also a portable shower bench, if needed, The toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated).
Sink in room 15
Shower in room 15
toilet in room 15
There’s also a small front porch with two chairs and a table, which can be moved to accommodate a wheelchair. The porch is surrounded by trees and it’s a nice place to enjoy a glass of wine after a long day of sightseeing. It’s a very relaxing and accessible Calaveras County lodging pick.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
