Located in Northwestern Washington, Lake Sammamish State Park (parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/lake-sammamish-state-park) not only boasts some scenic trails, but it’s also home to an adaptive cycling center. And along with a wide selection of adapted bicycles, the Adaptive Cycling Center also has a loaner Action Trackchair, for folks who want to explore some of the more rugged areas of the park.
The Adaptive Cycling Center is located at the east end of of the Sunset Beach Bathhouse, which is on the opposite end from the concession stand. The center is staffed by Outdoors for All volunteers, who are experts at adapting trikes, handcycles and tandems so that people with limited arm or leg function can enjoy the ride. There’s no charge for this service, and it’s open to anybody with a disability, ages seven and up. The goal of Outdoors for All is to enrich the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities through outdoor recreation, so be sure and stop by and learn about their adaptive bicycles on your next Lake Sammamish visit. The Adaptive Cycling Center is open seven days a week from May to September. And with over 250 adapted bicycles in stock, they have something for just about everyone.
Lake Sammamish State Park offers a number of wheelchair-accessible trails, including the Native Plant Interpretive Trail and a section of the East Lake Sammamish Trail. If, on the other hand, you’d like to try some of the more rugged trails in the park, a loaner Action Trackchair is available at the Adaptive Cycling Center. This rugged power wheelchair has tank tracks instead of wheels, and it helps wheelchair-users and slow walkers negotiate some of the inaccessible trails in the park.
Advance reservations are required to borrow the track chair. They can be made by calling 206-838-6030 ext. 291 or (425) 455-7010. Staff members cannot help with transfers to the track chair, so track chair-users must bring a companion if they require transfer assistance. A valid ID is also required to borrow the track chair, and all users must sign a liability waiver.
So get out and enjoy Lake Sammamish State Park on an adapted bicycle or an Action Trackchair. It’s fun, it’s free and it’s accessible.
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Revelation Trail at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Located 50 miles north of Eureka, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=415) features one of California’s last stands of old growth redwoods. And although there are several accessible trails through the grove, the recent acquisition of a track chair makes it easier for everyone to get up-close-and-personal to these majestic beauties. This lush state park makes a great day trip; however if you’d like to linger on a bit, there are also wheelchair-accessible camping cabins in the park. Either way, it’s a relaxing, refreshing and remote getaway.
Drive Through the Redwoods
Although a hike through the redwoods is grand, the drive to the park on Newton B. Drury Parkway is equally appealing. You can access the parkway from Highway 101, six miles north of Orick or four miles south of Klamath – just watch for the signs. This is probably the top scenic drive in the park. It’s about 10 miles long and it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete the whole thing. This two-lane road winds through an old growth redwood forest, with a number of pullouts along the way.
Be sure and stop at the Big Tree Wayside, which is on the right, just north of Cal Barrel Road. There are accessible parking spaces and vault toilets near this wayside exhibit, and a 100-yard paved level path to the tree. Even better, there’s ramp access up to this 304-foot giant, which towers over the surrounding forest. Even if you can’t walk or roll very far, you’ll still be able to experience this exhibit.
Big Tree Wayside
The Prairie Creek Visitor Center is located about a mile south of the Big Tree Wayside. There’s accessible parking nearby, and level access to this small park office. Inside you can pick up a map, get your questions answered and buy a souvenir
The .7-mile Redwood Access Trail begins at the visitor center and winds through the redwood grove and the day use area. Along the way the accessible Revelation Trail branches off the Redwood Access Trail and then reconnects to it about .3-miles down the road.
The Elk Meadow Picnic Area, which is located near the end of the Redwood Access Trail makes a good lunch stop. There’s level access to accessible picnic tables on a level grassy area, and accessible restrooms are located nearby. As an added bonus, elk are known to visit the meadow across from the picnic area, so keep your eyes peeled.
Spend the Night
Cabin 3 at Prairie Creek Campground
If you’d like to spend a night or two in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, there are four accessible camping cabins in Elk Prairie Campground. Cabins 1, 2, 3 and 4 are all grouped together and they each have accessible parking with ramp access up to the front porch.
Each cabin can sleep six, with two bunk beds which have a single bunk on the top and a double bunk on the bottom. There are no mattress pads on the beds, so it’s best to bring foam padding or an air mattress. Guests also need to bring their own bedding, as it’s not provided. There’s also space outside for a small tent that can accommodate two more guests. Other cabin features include a small counter, electricity, lights and a heater. And there’s a raised grill, an accessible picnic table and a bear box outside in a level area.
There’s no water in the cabins, but there’s a paved path to a showerhouse with accessible family shower rooms. These shower rooms include a toilet with grab bars, a roll-under sink with an angled mirror, and a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold down shower bench. There’s also a full five-foot turning radius in these spacious units.
Family shower room near the accessible cabins
And since the cabins are just across the street from the meadow frequented by the Roosevelt elk, they also offer a prime elk viewing location. It’s a relaxing and accessible spot to spend a night or two.
Barrier-Free Travel California National Park Road Trips for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
Bear Brook State Park (www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/bear-brook-state-park), which is located in Southeastern New Hampshire, has a loaner track chair available for visitors. The purchase of this track chair was made possible by a contribution from America’s State Park Foundation, with support from The Bronco Wild Fund. The track chair is available for use from 8 AM to 4 PM, with advance reservations. A volunteer will be available to give users a safety demonstration before the track chair is checked out. Reservations can be made by calling the park office at (603) 485-9869.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Track chairs are great for getting out and enjoying Mother Nature and exploring trails that may not be accessible in standard wheelchairs. They are made by a variety of manufacturers, but unlike standard wheelchairs, these heavy duty power chairs have tank tracks rather than wheels. In sort, they are an excellent solution for inaccessible trails.
Disabled hunters can also appreciate the strengths of a track chair, especially while navigating wet and uneven terrain. Unfortunately these track chairs come with a high price tag, and depending on the options they can easily cost in upwards of $20,000. And although that price may put these unique adaptive devices out of the reach of many folks, a Vermont-based LLC now has a program that offers track chair grants to disabled game bird hunters.
Track2wing Track Chair Grants
Track2wing (https://www.track2wing.com/) was founded in 2020 by Terry Wilson and Nancy Anisfield. It’s a self-funded corporation that’s run by a volunteer board. Their mission is to provide a way for disabled game bird hunters to participate in hunting activities with sporting dogs. To that end they offer track chair grants for disabled game bird hunters. And as of 2026, Track2Wing has provided 61 disabled hunters with a track chair.
Applying for a track chair grant is pretty easy. The application period runs from January 1 to March 31. Applicants are asked to fill out a simple form detailing their physical needs as well as their game bird hunting and sporting dog experience. Upon receipt of the application, more information – such as medical documentation or a phone interview – may be requested. The applications are reviewed by the advisory committee, and applicants are notified of their status by the end of April.
Grant recipients are referred to a local Trackchair (https://thetrackchair.com/) dealer to complete the ordering process. Track2wing pays for the full cost of the track chair and even provides funds for accessories and a trailer.
It’s a great program, so get your application in now if you’re interested. Applications can be requested from Track2wing at (802) 482-2561 or track2wing@gmavt.net.
If you’d like to explore some of the more rugged trails and beaches in Southeastern Texas, then pick up this Texas Tow & Go track chair from David’s Chair in Huntsville. Although most track chairs are required to be used in specific places, this loaner comes with a trailer so you can tow it to the location — or locations — of your choice.
This track chair, which has a maximum capacity of 350 pounds, is located at the 10 Mile Ranch in Huntsville, Texas. Reservations are required to borrow the track chair, which comes with a fully enclosed trailer that has ramp access in the rear. In order to tow this trailer you’ll need a vehicle with at least a 1,500-pound towing capacity, that has a 2-inch ball and a straight 4-prong trailer hookup with safety chains. The driver must provide a current drivers license and proof of insurance. Tow & Go reservations must be submitted at least two weeks in advance, and the reservations may not exceed seven days. This Texas Tow & Go track chair is a great option for an active vacation. For more information or to make a reservation, visit davidschair.org/request-tow-n-go-chair/.
Barrier-Free Travel 22 Accessible Road Trips Driving Vacations for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Track chairs are now available for loan at many Louisiana State Parks. Outfitted with tank tracks, these all terrain power wheelchairs allow folks to navigate trails that standard wheelchair can’t handle.” These specially-designed all-terrain chairs can really open up a world of new experiences for people with limited mobility,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. The track chairs were purchased with donations made to the Louisiana Park Foundation.
The Louisiana State Park track chairs are available at the following locations.
Fontainebleau State Park
Bogue Chitto State Park
Jimmie Davis State Park
Lake D’Arbonne State Park
North Toledo Bend State Park
Port Hudson State Historic Site
Sam Houston Jones State Park
Louisiana State Arboretum
Reservations for the track chairs must be made at least 48 hours in advance. The user must be accompanied by a companion that is at least 18 years old, and both the user and the companion must present a photo ID when picking up the track chair. A liability waiver must also be signed in order to borrow a track chair. Additionally, users under 16 must wear a helmet while operating the track chair.
Located in Northeastern Oklahoma, the Keystone Ancient Forest (www.sandspringsok.gov/175/Keystone-Ancient-Forest) is home to 500-year old cedars, 330-year old majestic oaks and over 80 species of butterflies. As an added bonus the preserve is filled with eagles, migratory birds, deer and other wildlife. The 1,380-acre parcel has received recognition from The Nature Conservancy and it’s the first Oklahoma property to become a member of the Old Growth Forest Network. And although the forest has a few natural barriers for wheelchair-users and slow walkers, track chairs are now available for loan.
Track chairs have tank tires instead of standard wheels and they can navigate over obstacles that most wheelchairs can’t manage. The track chairs can be taken on the Childers Trail, the Fire Road and the Frank Trail. If you cannot transfer to the track chair on your own, you must bring somebody to help you. And while you’re in the preserve, all pets must be on a six-foot leash.
The track chairs are available by advance reservation at sandspringsok.org/FormCenter/Case-Community-Center-10/Track-Chair-Request-Form-98. After the form is completed and the waiver is signed, someone from the Keystone Ancient Forest will get back to you to confirm your reservation and to answer any questions. For more information, call (918) 246-7795.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Toledo’s Wildwood Preserve Metropark (metroparkstoledo.com/explore-your-parks/wildwood-preserve-metropark/) now has two models of track chairs and some adaptive bicycles for loan. Bisected by the Ottawa River, this 493-acre park is well known for its varied terrain and well developed trail system. And thanks to the Wildwood Preserve Track Chair Loaner Program, everyone can now explore all the nooks and crannies of this popular park.
Track Chairs and Trikes
The Wildwood Preserve Track Chair Loaner Program includes one Action Trackchair with a 22-inch wide seat. It’s outfitted with a four-point harness, a seatbelt extension, armrest pockets, an oxygen tank holder and an attendant control. There is no weight restriction on this chair.
The park also has a GRIT Freedom Chair, a recumbent trike and an upright trike to loan.
All of the track chairs and trikes must be reserved at least three business days in advance. They are available for loan in three-hour increments, and all track chair-users must bring along a companion to accompany them on their hikes. The companion must be able to assist with transfers, as park employees are not allowed to help.
The loaner track chairs and trikes can be picked up at the maintenance area in the park, which is close to a number of trails. The closest ADA parking is located at Metz Stables. Accessible restrooms are also located at Metz Stables and near the playground.
Located on the northeast shore of Lake Tahoe, Sand Harbor State Park (parks.nv.gov/parks/lake-tahoe-nevada-state-park) features a string of beaches that line the crystal clear mountain lake. Not only is it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, but thanks to a loaner track chair program, wheelchair-users and slow walkers can now explore this scenic Nevada state park.
The Action Trackchair (actiontrackchair.com) available for loan is billed as the “ultimate all terrain wheelchair”. Fitted with tank tracks instead of wheels, it can easily navigate the sandy or even muddy beach terrain with relative ease. And, since this power chair operates with a joystick, it can be operated independently, unlike manual beach wheelchairs.
The Action Trackchair is available for loan on a first-come basis at the park office. Three’s no fee required to use the track chair, but all users must be briefed on the appropriate use of this assistive device and sign a waiver. For more information about the trach chair loaner program, contact the park office at (775) 831-0494.
So get out and enjoy the Lake Tahoe beach independently this summer, and borrow a track chair at Sand Harbor State Park.
Barrier-Free Travel Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Nicknamed the “Switzerland of America”, Ridgeway State Park (cpw.state.co.us/state-parks/ridgway-state-park) is one of Colorado’s often overlooked gems. Located off of Highway 550, about 15 miles south of Montrose, it offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, and borders a five-mile stretch of the Uncompahgre River. And the good news is, thanks to a bevy of accessible trails, a loaner track wheelchair, a water wheelchair and even a wheelchair-accessible paddleboard, it’s now possible to plan a wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park getaway. Top it off with spending a night or two in a wheelchair-accessible yurt, and you have all the ingredients for a perfectly accessible outdoor excursion.
Explore the Forest
One of the largest areas of the park, Dutch Charlie, is the perfect spot to enjoy a wheelchair-accessible Ridgeway State Park visit. It includes the visitor center, several accessible trails, an accessible beach area, and a campground.
There’s accessible parking in front of the visitor center, which is located just off of Highway 550. The visitor center features level access to a variety of interpretive exhibits, a ranger information desk and accessible restrooms.
Overlook Trail at Ridgway State Park
There are two accessible trails near the visitor center. The Overlook is a short 600-foot paved trail that leads over to a vantage point that offers a good view of the Ridgway Reservoir. The Forest Discovery Trail also begins near the visitor center. This .6-mile hard-packed dirt loop is wide and fairly level; however there are some rough spots and ruts along the way. Additionally it can get pretty muddy after a storm, but it’s usually passable in a loaner track chair.
Forest Discovery Trail at Ridgway State Park
Two loaner track chairs are available at the visitor center, however advance reservations are required. Staff members are not allowed to assist with transfers to the track chair; and a park volunteer must accompany all track chair-users on their excursions. The excursions can include the Forest Discovery Trail, as well as several other trails in the park. Track chairs must be reserved at least one week in advance on the park website, or by calling (970) 626-5822. It’s a great way for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to explore the park, but plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Bluebird on the Discovery Forest Trail at Ridgway State Park
Hit the Beach
Mobi-mat at Mears Bay BeachBeach at Ridgway State Park
If you prefer the beach to the forest, them head on over to Mear’s Bay, which is just a short drive from the visitor center. There’s accessible parking near the marina, with level access over to the office and the accessible picnic tables on the adjacent deck There’s also ramp access down to the beach, which has a 300-foot Mobi-Mat to the water.
If you’d like to go into the water, a loaner MobiChair is available to use at the Mears Bay swimming beach. This floating wheelchair can travel over the sand or on the Mobi-Mats and go into the water. It is not self propelling, so users need someone to push the MobiChair.
And for more water fun, check out the loaner SOLFiesta wheelchair-accessible paddleboard. This massive paddleboard measures 15 feet six inches long by five feet six inches wide. There are tie-downs for a wheelchair in front, and room for a passenger behind it. And there’s still plenty of room in back for the requisite guide who maneuvers the paddleboard.
There’s no charge to use the Mobi Chair or the accessible paddleboard, but advance reservations are a must. They can be made on the park website or by calling (970) 626-5822. And just like the track chair reservations, they must be made at least a week in advance.
Finally, if you’d like a short walk while you’re in the area, then check out the Mears Bay Trail. This one-mile paved trail has a maximum grade of 4% , and runs alongside the lake. It’s not really too scenic in dry years when the lake is low, but if it’s a normal rainfall year it’s very pleasant.
Spend the Night
Yurt 10 in Dakota Terraces Campground at Ridgway State Park
Top off your wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park adventure with an overnight stay in the park. Book a night or two at the accessible yurt in the Dakota Terraces Campground, which is located midway between Mear’s Bays and the visitor center,
Accessible yurt 10 is located in Loop A of the campground. This round canvas structure offers accessible parking in front, with a paved pathway to the front porch. Access features include a threshold ramp, a wide entrance door, and good pathway access throughout the yurt.
The yurt is furnished with two queen futons (bring your own bedding), a bunk bed and a table and chairs. The kitchenette has a small counter, and it includes a microwave and a refrigerator. And although there isn’t a bathroom in the yurt, it does have electricity, an overhead light and a stove for heat. Outside, there is an accessible picnic table, a grill on a cement pad, and a 15-inch high tent platform.
Inside Yurt 10
An accessible restroom is located next door, with accessible parking in front of the building. Accessible pay showers are available in the camper services building near the beginning of Loop A.
Toilet and Showers in the Camper Services Building
So save the trouble of pitching a tent and give yurting a try for a night – or two – in Ridgway State Park. It’s a comfortable and affordable way to extend your visit to wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Located in Northwestern Washington, Lake Sammamish State Park (parks.wa.gov/find-parks/state-parks/lake-sammamish-state-park) not only boasts some scenic trails, but it’s also home to an adaptive cycling center. And along with a wide selection of adapted bicycles, the Adaptive Cycling Center also has a loaner Action Trackchair, for folks who want to explore some of the more rugged areas of the park.
