There are numerous things that go into planning an accessible vacation; from finding the right hotel room, to securing airport transportation, and even finding out what local attractions are accessible. And then there are the emergency situations. What do you if something unforeseen happens while you’re on the road? Well my best solution is to play a healthy game of “what if ” before your travel.
For example, ask yourself a question like, “What if my wheelchair breaks when I’m on vacation?”. Then find a solution to the problem. In this case, the solution would be to compile a list of wheelchair repair shops in your destination city. Problem solved. Write them down and take them with you. Chances are you won’t need to use the list, but if you do, you are prepared.
And if you happen to be going to Amsterdam, then you’re in luck, because Able Amsterdam has compiled a nice little list of wheelchair repair shops in Amsterdam. And although it contains shops that specialize in repairing medical equipment, it also has a bike shop that has experience repairing wheelchairs and rollators. So check out this list of wheelchair repair shops in Amsterdam for your future travels. www.ableamsterdam.com/blog/wheelchair-repair-service-amsterdam?fbclid=IwAR3H81Hgc_EfU4sVq9YpiWOnFqO-QKiCGtNKii8TCfSiiW7W50rtEzomVDA
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Make no mistake about it, Staunton State Park (cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Staunton) includes some challenging physical access barriers for folks with mobility issues. That doesn’t mean you should cross it off your “to visit” list though. Quite the contrary, as track chairs are now available at this Colorado park. These all terrain wheelchairs make inclusive access a possibility for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. Says Track Chair Program Manager Natalie Bostow, “The goal of our program is to help everyone experience the outdoors, and to enable wheelchair-users and slow walkers to enjoy hikes with friends and family. And the Staunton State Park track chairs are our means to accomplish that.”
An Innovative Program
The Staunton State Park track chairs are the result of a collaborative partnership. The Friends of Staunton State Park (friendsofstauntonstatepark.org) raised the funds to buy the track chairs, while the state park manages the program. To date, a robust group of volunteers have conducted more than 1,000 track chair hikes
The track chairs have tank tracks instead of wheelchair tires, which makes it possible to explore terrain that’s off-limits to standard wheelchairs. They can be operated with a joystick — either a golf ball, a tennis ball or a t-bar — which can be mounted on either side of the track chair. You do need some hand dexterity to operate these chairs; however if you can operate a power wheelchair, you can probably operate a track chair.
Suspension and non-suspension track chairs are available, but the suspension models offer much smoother rides. A car seat is also available, so small children over the age of two can utilize the track chairs. The track chairs can accommodate up to 350 pounds, and there are variety of transfer boards and a sling lift on hand to facilitate safe transfers. The track chairs will work for almost everyone; however because of safety issues they are not appropriate for someone who is 100% ventilator-reliant.
And the track chair rules are pretty simple. All track chair users must be accompanied by a companion as well as a volunteer. After a short orientation the volunteer will walk behind the track chair, so they can jump in to help out if the user can’t manage things. Generally speaking though, the volunteers are there for support and they try to let users be as independent as possible.
Take a Hike
The Staunton State Park track chairs are free, but reservations are required. They can be made online on the Staunton State Park reservation form. They are available from June to October on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations open for the season on May 1, so plan ahead as they fill up quickly. And if you have any questions, just call (303) 816-0912.
When you get to the park, follow the signs to the Meadow Parking Lot. There’s accessible parking in front of the track chair garage, and an accessible picnic table next to it. There’s also an accessible vault toilet in the parking lot.
The track chairs have a battery range of about eight miles, but volunteers usually keep the hikes to four or five miles, just to be on the safe side. All of the track chair trails depart from the Meadow Parking Lot.
The most popular track chair trail is the Davis Ponds Trail, which is a 2.7-mile beginner trail with some stream crossings. There’s an accessible fishing pier and a picnic table at the mid-point, and adapted fishing poles are available at the track chair garage.
The more advanced 2.3-mile Mason Creek Trail includes some rock obstacles, but it also includes a peaceful meadow and stone house ruins. The longest and most difficult track chair trail is the 3.5-mile Staunton Ranch Trail, which travels through aspen filled meadows and offers a great view of Pikes Peak.
The track chairs also come with a backpack that has rain gear, additional water, tools and a blanket, but track chair-users are asked to bring water, medication, additional clothing layers, a seat cushion, a hat, sunblock and glasses. And don’t forget to pack along a lunch as there are a number of pleasant picnic spots to stop for a break throughout the park.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
I use a power wheelchair and I am going apply for my first passport this year. I have been told by the passport office that my wheelchair cannot be in my passport photo. Why can’t my wheelchair in my passport photo? I can’t walk at all, so my wheelchair will be with me when I travel. In fact, I consider my wheelchair an extension of my body. Is this true or can my wheelchair be in my passport photo? And if it can’t, how am I suppose to get a passport photo of me without my wheelchair?
I understand that your wheelchair is an extension of your body, but unfortunately the headrest can be a problem for passport photos. Most headrests are black, and since the background for passport photos is white, they could potentially interfere with the biometric data that is contained on the RFID microchip on US passports. This biometric information helps to positively identify the holder, and it also makes passports more difficult to forge.
The US has been issuing biometric passports since 2007, and passport photos have been held to stricter standards since then. Basically, passport photos need to offer a clear facial image, with no digital alteration, and they need to be taken on a white or off-white background. Glasses, hats or anything that obstructs the face are generally not allowed. If capturing a clear facial image is not possible due to contractures or spasms, an exception could be made with a doctor’s note. There is also a place on the application where you can describe your disability if it effects photo standards.
If you are doing your passport photograph at home, the best thing to do is to drape a white towel over the headrest so it will blend in to the white background. But remember, your facial features must be clearly visible. If they aren’t, the passport agency will reject your passport photo.
Alternatively, you can have your photo taken at a passport agency. They will put a white sheet over the back of your wheelchair, as will other businesses that take passport photos. The advantage to getting the photo taken at a passport agency, is that you know it will be done correctly. To find a passport agency that takes photos (not all do), visit iafdb.travel.state.gov/ and type in your search parameters. You can also search for wheelchair-accessible locations at that site.
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Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
Power beach wheelchairs at Coronado Beach in San Diego, California
Although a number of San Diego beaches have beach wheelchairs and beach mats, a few locations go one step further. Along with the standard beach wheelchairs — that require a strong helper to push — some San Diego beaches now have power beach wheelchairs to loan.
These San Diego power beach wheelchairs are somewhat of a cross between a standard beach wheelchair with large balloon tires, and a power wheelchair with a joystick. They are easy to operate, and after a brief orientation from the lifeguard you can easily cruise along the sandy beach. And the best part about the power beach wheelchairs is that they allow wheelchair-users independent access to the beach. You don’t need a helper to push you and you can go wherever you want and take things at your own pace. They are also a great option for slow walkers who may tire easily trudging over the sand.
These power beach wheelchairs are available on a first-come basis; however it’s best to call in advance as some locations have limited hours.
The San Diego power beach wheelchairs must stay at least five feet away from the water; however if you’d like to go for a swim, then check out the floating beach wheelchairs at Moonlight Beach in nearby Encinitas. You will need some assistance to wheel these chairs down to the water, but once you hit the surf they float. You can choose to enjoy the ocean by yourself, or have a companion there to assist you. Either way, it’s a great way to enjoy the water.
And if you’d prefer to stay dry, they also have power beach wheelchairs available at Moonlight Beach. For more information about the floating beach wheelchairs or the power beach wheelchairs at Moonlight Beach, call (760) 633-2740.
Barrier-Free Travel California National Park Road Trips for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
If you’re looking for wheelchair-accessible transportation in Guam, then look no further than Accessible Van Transportation Services (www.avtsguam.com). They serve all 19 villages in Guam and can provide transfers in a wheelchair-accessible van to all the airports, seaports, and hotels on the island. They also offer customized tours of the island, based on the interests and preferences of their clients. For more information about their services call (671) 898-8695 or e-mail avtsguam@gmail.com.
If you’ve always dreamed of enjoying some fun and sun on the beach, but thought it was impossible because you use a wheelchair, then think again. Thanks to an enterprising man on the Gulf Coast, power beach wheelchairs on Alabama beaches are a reality for wheelchair-users and slow walkers..
A Man With a Plan
After retiring to the Gulf Coast, Jerry Nasello was diagnosed with ALS. A diehard beachgoer, Nasello was devastated, but he was also determined to find a way to navigate over the sand without walking. He remembered a power beach wheelchair that he once saw in California, and his analytical mind went to work and he created his own version. And over the years he improved it, so he and other wheelchair users could hit the beach.
His first model used PVC pipe, but subsequent models incorporated lightweight metal frames and non-corrosive alloys into the design. He then added an upholstered seat and a joystick for steering for the perfect beach access solution for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. And shortly thereafter he started a company and began renting his fleet of power beach wheelchair to others.
New Owners Continue The Dream
Sadly Jerry is no longer with us, however his power beach wheelchairs on Alabama beaches are still a reality. Today Stacy and Tim Collings own Beach Power Rentals (www.BeachPowerRentals.com) which offers rental power beach wheelchair in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan and Orange Beach. You can rent them by the day, week or month, and delivery is available for an extra charge. It’s the perfect solution for folks who have level or ramped access to a beach near their accommodations. And if you also need a beach umbrella, manual beach wheelchair, a scooter or a shower chair, they can deliver those too.
Additionally, they can make adjustments to the power beach wheelchairs based on individual needs. They can mount the joystick on either side, or take it off to allow a companion to steer it. They can also adjust the length, height, width and rotation of the footrests. And if there are other adjustments that you need, just let the folks at Beach Power Rentals know, and they will do their best to make it happen.
So get ready to hit the beach in a power wheelchair on your next Gulf Shores visit.
Barrier-Free Travel Favorite Florida Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
A new United Airlines wheelchair sizer tool was recently unveiled. This digital tool enables wheelchair-users to select flights that can accommodate their specific assistive devices. Why is this important? Well, some larger wheelchairs will not fit through certain aircraft cargo doors without being titled to the side or back. And in some cases, tilting those wheelchairs could seriously damage them.
The Wheelchair Sizer Tool
So how does this new United Airlines wheelchair sizer tool work? Well basically you enter your flight criteria on the United Airlines website or app, then all the flights that meet your criteria are returned. Next you click on the “wheelchair” tab in the top right, and enter the dimensions and battery type of your wheelchair. Finally, click on “check size” and the tool will return all the flights that can accommodate your wheelchair.
And here’s the great part. If you aren’t able to take your preferred flight because your wheelchair won’t fit through the cargo door, and there are other more expensive flights that can accommodate your wheelchair, you can get a refund of the fare difference.
New United Airlines Wheelchair Sizer Tool Result of ACAA Complaint
So why did United Airlines develop this new wheelchair sizer tool? Well, it was all the result of an Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) Complaint, and a subsequent settlement agreement between the Department of Transportation (DOT) and United Airlines.
The original ACAA complaint that triggered the DOT investigation was filed by Engracia Figueroa. Unfortunately United Airlines damaged her customized wheelchair and left her sitting in an airport wheelchair for five hours. And perhaps if she knew that she had other flight options, she would have taken an alternate flight, where her wheelchair didn’t have to be twisted, turned and tilted to fit through the cargo door. And all that manhandling was what damaged her $30,000 assistive device.
Sadly Ms. Figueroa’s story had a tragic ending. United initially refused to replace her wheelchair, and although Ms. Figueroa fought this decision, it took a toll on her. She subsequently developed a pressure sore as the direct result of improper seating, and by the time United Airlines finally agreed to replace her wheelchair, it was too late. Ms. Figueroa died from a subsequent infection on October 31, 2021.
Trial Program at IAH
Another provision of the DOT settlement agreement requires United Airlines to implement a six-month pilot program at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). This trial program will explore additional equipment and service options that can be used to accommodate passengers who have had their customized wheelchairs damaged or delayed.
Specifically, this program focuses on the time frame between a customer’s arrival at the airport and the time that United returns their wheelchair or provides an appropriate loaner. The goal is to make extended waits — like Ms. Figueroa had — safer and more comfortable. To that end, United is equipping their IAH loaner wheelchairs with Permobil cushions, in order to improve comfort and stability. Additionally, the airline is also reimbursing customers for transportation expenses, should there be an extended wait for the return of their assistive service. That way they can opt to wait in a more comfortable setting, such as a hotel or their own home.
The DOT has agreed to close its investigation of the ACAA complaint filed by Ms. Figueroa, in return for the implementation of these new wheelchair policies. An although it’s great to see these improvements, they wouldn’t be in place had it not for Ms. Figueroa’s ACAA complaint. So remember that the next time you encounter access problems while flying. Filing an ACAA complaint won’t personally help you, but it could help effect change. You can file a ACAA complaint at https://secure.dot.gov/air-travel-complaint.
And lest you think that it’s no big deal, remember that the ACAA has been in effect since 1986. We shouldn’t still be having these problems today. File that complaint if you encounter access-related issues .
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. It’s also the place where you can pick up the loaner track chair for an accessible jaunt through the redwoods.
Borrow a Track Chair
Action Track Chair
The loaner track chair at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.is the result of the efforts of David’s Chair, Redwood Parks Conservancy and Redwood National and State Parks. This Action Trackchair is fitted with tank tracks instead of wheels, and allows wheelchair-users and slow walkers better access to developed outdoor areas.
The Action Trackchair is 20 inches wide and can accommodate a maximum weight of 400 pounds. If you cannot transfer independently you will need to bring someone to assist you, as park employees and volunteers are prohibited from providing transfer assistance. Reservations for the track chair can be made at https://www.redwoodparksconservancy.org/permits/davids-chair. The chairs are available seven days a week, and visitors may choose to borrow the track chair from 9AM to 12PM or from 1PM to 4PM.
Visitors are allowed to take the track chair on the Redwood Access Trail and the Revelation Trail. 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 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
is now available. And I’m happy to report that there’s been improved access in — and around — all three parks.
The second edition includes updated information on:
Accessible trails and attractions
Access upgrades, details and photos of all in-park lodges
Accessible lodging options in gateway communities
Barrier-free campgrounds
Accessible bus, snowcoach and boat tours
Accessible shuttles to and around the parks
Insider access tips
Fly-drive suggestions with accessible rental vehicle resources
National park discounted pass information
This national park access guide was a challenging title for me, as of course Charles and I made numerous treks to all three parks (which we always do); but this time we also had to work our travels around our roles as owner/builders while finishing the construction of our new home. To say that it was delicate balancing act is a huge understatement. And although I wrote a good deal of the book at a picnic table on-site while supervising the construction, I’m pleased to announce that we are now finally settled in our new abode. The other good news is now we are even closer to Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, so it will be easier to update future changes.
Access Improvements Galore!
There are of course a lot of changes since the first edition of this national park access guide, but they are good changes. For example Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel renovated their main lodge rooms, and they now have five accessible guest rooms, including three with roll-in showers. And outside the Parks, the new William Bridger Cabins and Glacier Cabin Village both have nice accessible units with roll-in showers.
The in-park concessionaires are doing a great job too, from Xanterra’s accessible Glacier Red Bus Tours to the accessible boat tours down in Grand Teton offered by Jenny Lake Boating. Access is really improving thanks to their efforts.
So grab a copy of my new edition and plan an accessible road trip this year. And don’t forget to get your required entrance permit for Glacier National Park. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment!
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.
There are numerous things that go into planning an accessible vacation; from finding the right hotel room, to securing airport transportation, and even finding out what local attractions are accessible. And then there are the emergency situations. What do you if something unforeseen happens while you’re on the road? Well my best solution is to play a healthy game of “what if ” before your travel.
Make no mistake about it, Staunton State Park (
If you’re looking for wheelchair-accessible transportation in Guam, then look no further than Accessible Van Transportation Services (
If you’ve always dreamed of enjoying some fun and sun on the beach, but thought it was impossible because you use a wheelchair, then think again. Thanks to an enterprising man on the Gulf Coast, power beach wheelchairs on Alabama beaches are a reality for wheelchair-users and slow walkers..
A new United Airlines wheelchair sizer tool was recently unveiled. This digital tool enables wheelchair-users to select flights that can accommodate their specific assistive devices. Why is this important? Well, some larger wheelchairs will not fit through certain aircraft cargo doors without being titled to the side or back. And in some cases, tilting those wheelchairs could seriously damage them.
I’m thrilled to announce that my newest national park access guide was just released. The second edition of Barrier-Free Travel; Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers (