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
Located in sleepy little Guerneville, the Creekside Inn (creeksideinn.com) is nestled in the redwoods just a stones throw away from the Russian River. Built on stilts to withstand potential flooding, the majority of the rooms in this Sonoma County Inn are on eye-level with the avian population that inhabits the surrounding forest. And if you listen closely you’ll also hear the familiar “Chicago” call of the resident ground dwelling quail. Truly you are surrounded by the beauty of Mother Nature at this rural property. And the good news is, the Creekside Inn boasts both ambiance and accessibility, with a nice wheelchair-accessible cottage.
The Lark Cottage
The inn itself is divided into two sections — the main house, where the office and six bed-and-breakfast rooms are located; and the surrounding buildings, which house a collection of second-floor cottages, suites and cabins. The accessible Lark Cottage is located in the latter section, with accessible parking near the office and elevator access up to the barrier-free elevated walkway on the top floor.
Access features in the cottage include wide doorways, barrier-free pathways, and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair. The spacious bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower seat. The toilet is located in a separate alcove with grab bars on both sides; and the bathroom also includes a roll-under sink.
The cottage is furnished with a 23-inch high queen-sized bed, and includes a roomy kitchen with a stove, sink, coffeemaker, refrigerator and even roll-out shelves. There’s also level access to the small deck area just outside the cottage.
The Little Extras
And let’s not forget the little extras, like fresh fruit on the counter and half-and-half in the refrigerator for your morning coffee. There’s also a gas fireplace for those nippy evenings.
Access to the public areas is good too at the Creekside Inn, with a lift available for the pool and hot tub. There’s also a barbecue area with level access and an accessible picnic table. And with the Russian River flowing in the background, it’s the perfect place to sip a glass of wine and enjoy the natural beauty of Sonoma County.
Top it off with a very welcoming and knowledgeable owner — Lynn Crescione — and you have all the key ingredients for a relaxing getaway. Not only is Lynn a first-rate hostess but she’s also very proactive as far as access is concerned. For example, she had a pool lift long before it was ever required. She just saw the need, and as a conscientious owner, she filled it. And that makes for good access.
In short, you just can’t go wrong with the Creekside Inn. Not only is it wheelchair-accessible, but it’s just what the doctor ordered for some serious R&R.
(click for larger image)
Bedroom in the Lark Cabin
Kitchen in the Lark Cabin
Shower and Toilet in the Lark Cabin
Vanity in the Lark Cabin
Barrier-Free Travel Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks 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 a trip to the City of Brotherly Love is in your future, then check out CityPASS (www.citypass.com), for an affordable way to explore accessible Philadelphia. CityPASS users can choose from three, four or five of the following attractions; and the ticket book is good for nine days once it’s validated.
Adventure Aquarium
The Franklin Institute
Philadelphia Zoo
Big Bus Company and Philadelphia Trolley Works
Eastern State Penitentiary
Museum of the American Revolution
Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial
Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
National Constitution Center
Barnes Foundation
There are several ways to enjoy the Philadelphia CityPASS, but here’s a suggestion for a five-attraction itinerary.
Take A Big Bus Tour
A good way to get a good overview of the city is to hop on the Big Bus (www.bigbustours.com/en/philadelphia/philadelphia-bus-tours). A 24-hour Big Bus pass is one CityPASS ticket option; and although the whole bus fleet is not accessible, arrangements for an accessible bus can be made with 48-hours notice. The wheelchair-lift can accommodate up to 650 pounds, but if you want to enjoy the view from the top of the double-decker bus, you have to negotiate the narrow staircase.
There are two ways to ride the Big Bus; you can ride the entire route as a tour, or you can hop off and enjoy attractions along the way. If you elect to hop off, the same accessible bus will return to your stop two hours later, so be sure and check with the driver and plan accordingly.
Visit the Historic District
A visit to the historic district — including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the Benjamin Franklin Museum — is a must-do on any accessible Philadelphia itinerary. And the good news is, it’s a stop on the Big Bus tour. There’s so much to see in the area, that you might want to set aside two days to see it all at a leisurely pace.
And while you’re in the historic district be sure and use your CityPASS ticket to visit the National Constitution Center (constitutioncenter.org). Located across Arch Street from the Independence Visitor Center, the National Constitution Center is the first and only institution established by Congress to disseminate information about the United States Constitution on a non-partisan basis. And although that sounds like a mouthful, it’s a world away from eighth grade civics.
There is level access to the front entrance through the courtyard on Arch Street, with barrier-free access throughout the galleries. The interactive exhibits depict the effects that milestone events have had on our freedom. From slavery, the New Deal and prohibition, to Watergate, women’s rights and even the Americans with Disabilities Act, it’s a very thought provoking collection. .
Hit the Big House
The Eastern State Penitentiary (easternstate.org), which is also a Big Bus stop is definitely worth a visit. There’s level access over to the entrance, with curb-cuts and wide sidewalks along the way. There are steps down into the ticket office, but they can be easily bypassed (just ask one of the guards). Most of the pathways along the tour route are level, and although a few cells are not accessible, you can certainly get a good look at them from the corridors. They’ve done a pretty good job of making this aging facility doable for wheelchair-users.
Make sure and pick up the audio tour (included with admission) as it’s narrated by former guards and prisoners and it paints an accurate picture of prison life. Opened in 1830, the Eastern State Penitentiary was designed to strike fear into the prisoners, and to isolate them so they could reflect on their crimes. They spent 23 hours a day in their cells, and when they did leave they had to wear a black hood so they wouldn’t see anyone else. Talking to anyone — prisoners or guards — was strictly forbidden. Indeed it was a solitary life and the tour reflects that fact.
Franklin Institute
After the somber prison atmosphere, hop back on the Big Bus and get off at the more relaxed Franklin Institute (fi.edu/en). Although steps grace the front entrance of this Philly favorite, there’s an accessible entrance just to the right. Known as an innovator in hands-on interactive exhibits, the Franklin Institute has a large collection of science-based touchable attractions that explore everything from sports to space. And it’s a great place for wheelchair-users, as there’s barrier-free access through the galleries, with elevator access to all floors.
Admission to the planetarium is also included with the CityPASS ticket. There is level access to the planetarium, with wheelchair and companion seating in front. Unlike most planetariums, the seats don’t tip back a lot, and most of the show is easy to see from a wheelchair or a standard chair.
There are also a number of demonstrations throughout the museum during the day, so make sure and check your program. And although there are a lot of kids at this attraction, it’s also a fun place for adults.
Cross the Delaware
Last but certainly not least, plan to visit the Adventure Aquarium (www.adventureaquarium.com), located across the Delaware River on your Philadelphia visit. If you’re riding the Big Bus, get off at Penn’s Landing and catch the RiverLink Ferry (www.riverlinkferry.com) to cross the river. There is level access to the ferry, and plenty of room for wheelchairs on the main deck, with lots of companion seating nearby. Access to the upper deck is only by stairs, but the view from below is just as nice. It’s almost like a mini river cruise, as you get views of the waterfront, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, the Battleship New Jersey and the Philadelphia skyline on the way to Camden.
Over on the other side, there’s level access access to the Adventure Aquarium, accessible restrooms inside, and elevator access to the second floor. Additionally, all of the galleries have ramp access, wheelchair-height exhibits and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair.
Must-sees include Hippo Haven, which houses Nile hippos Button and Genny, and a stop at the Touch-A-Shark exhibit to get up close and personal with epaulet sharks and bamboo sharks. And don’t miss the the Plexiglas tunnel that offers a 360-degree view of the shark exhibit. Last, but not least, check out Penguin Park, where you’ll see the incredibly cute Black-footed African Penguins.
All in all, it’s a great accessible place to spend the day. Take your time to enjoy it all, before you head back to Philadelphia on the return ferry.
If your travels take you to the Volunteer State, then check out the loaner all terrain wheelchairs in Tennessee state parks. The list is growing, but currently over 30 state parks offer these loaner wheelchairs. They are available to both adults and children, and they can be operated independently or with caregiver assistance. And each park has a list of specific trails you can try out in their loaner all terrain wheelchairs. The wheelchairs are available at these Tennessee state parks.
West Tennessee
Chickasaw State Park
Fort Pillow State Historic Park
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
Natchez Trace State Park
Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park
Paris Landing State Park
Pickwick Landing State Park
Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park
Reelfoot Lake State Park
T.O. Fuller State Park
Middle Tennessee
Bledsoe Creek State Park
Cedars of Lebanon State Park
Cumberland Mountain State Park
Cummins Falls State Park
David Crockett State Park
Fall Creek Falls State Park
Henry Horton State Park
Long Hunter State Park
Radnor Lake State Park
Alvin C. York State Historic Park
Tims Ford State Park
East Tennessee
Booker T. Washington State Park
Cove Lake State Park
Cumberland Trail State Park
Harrison Bay State Park
Indian Mountain State Park
Panther Creek State Park
Red Clay State Historic Park
Roan Mountain State Park
Rocky Fork State Park
Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park
Warriors’ Path State Park
Reservations for the all terrain track chairs are available at stateoftennessee.formstack.com/forms/all_terrain_wheelchair_request. Alternatively, you can call the parks directly with your reservation request. This method is preferred when the anticipated visit is less than three days away. And although reservations are preferred, the all terrain wheelchairs are available on a walk-up basis, if they are not already reserved.
Located at 7,100 feet along Southern Oregon’s Cascade Crest, Crater Lake was created over 7,700 years ago after a massive eruption of Mount Mazama. The resulting caldera filled with melted snow and rainwater, and subsequently the 1943-foot-deep lake took on a deep blue — if not somewhat ethereal — hue. Add in the surrounding cliffs that are nearly 2,000-feet high, two picturesque islands, and an old growth forest, and you have all the ingredients for a scenic national park experience. And although the lake itself isn’t wheelchair-accessible, there are many other areas in Crater Lake National Park (www.nps.gov/crla) that wheelchair-users and slow walkers can enjoy.
The Rim Drive
View from the Phantom Ship Overlook
A good way to enjoy Crater Lake National Park is to take the 31-mile Rim Drive that circles the caldera. For the best windshield views take the drive in a counterclockwise direction starting on West Rim Drive. There are a number of overlooks and pullouts along the drive, but the windshield views are also spectacular.
Be sure and stop at Watchman Overlook, which offers an excellent view of Wizard Island. There’s accessible parking near the accessible vault toilet, with curb-cut access to a sidewalk over to the lower overlook. The upper overlook is only accessible by stairs or a steep path, but don’t fret if you can’t make it to the top, as you’ll catch some of the best views from the road. Cloudcap Overlook and Phantom Ship Overlook also offer some great windshield views of the lake. And don’t miss Vidae Falls on the last section of East Rim Drive, as this 100-foot waterfall can be easily seen from the pullout.
If you’d like to leave the driving to someone else, Crater Lake Trolley (craterlaketrolley.net) offers an accessible tour which travels along Rim Drive and stops at five to seven viewpoints. This two-hour tour departs from Rim Village, and the lift-equipped trolley has space for one wheelchair. At least 24-hours advance notice is required for wheelchair accessibility (541-882-1896). It should be noted that wheelchairs must be no wider than 28-inches and have a combined weight limit of no more than 400 pounds.
Explore the Forest
The Godfrey Glen Trail
Although the lake is the crown jewel of the park, the surrounding forest also offers some impressive vistas. To that end, one of the most accessible trails in the park– the Godfrey Glen Trail — is located near the south park entrance, on Munson Valley Road between Mazama Village and Park Headquarters.
This hard-packed dirt trail passes through an old growth hemlock and fir forest; and although there are some ruts and roots along the way, most are easy to dodge. The biggest obstacle along this 1.1-mile loop is the steep grade at the halfway point. Best bet it to travel in a clockwise direction, and double back when it gets too steep. Even if you can’t complete the whole trail, you’ll still get some nice canyon views along the way.
Pinnacles Road Trails
View from the First Overlook on the Pinnacles Trail
Although the Rim Drive is a must-do on any Crater Lake National Park visit, save some time to hop off-the-beaten-path and explore two accessible trails off of Pinnacles Road. Located on the south side of the lake, this seven-mile road begins near Phantom Ship Overlook, and runs out to Pinnacles Overlook, near the southeastern border of the park. The road and the overlook are named for the spire-like pumice formations that dot this river valley. Accessible parking is located next to the Pinnacles Trail, which offers a closer look at these unusual formations, that were created when hot volcanic gases shot up through the ash.
The Pinnacles Trail passes by several overlooks that offer good views of the formations. The hard-packed dirt trail is covered in crushed rock, and although it’s not entirely level, the undulations are doable for most wheelchair-users. Even if you can’t manage the whole half-mile hike to the park boundary, at least take the level 250-foot walk out to the first overlook. You won’t be disappointed.
The Plaikni Falls Trail, which is located near the beginning of Pinnacles Road is also worth a stop. Accessible parking is located near this trail that winds through an old growth forest to the base of the falls. That said, the last quarter-mile is extremely steep, and probably not doable for most wheelchair-users and slow walkers. On the other hand, the stroll through the forest is fairly level, and there are numerous wheelchair turn-outs and benches located along the way.
And although Pinnacles Road makes a nice outing, be forewarned that there are no accessible toilets at either trailhead. Best bet is to plan ahead and make a rest stop at White Bark Pine Picnic Area or the Crater Peak Trail Picnic Area before hitting the trails.
Rim Village
Sunrise on the Back Terrace at Crater Lake Lodge
Last, but certainly not least, save some time to enjoy the rim view on foot on the accessible section of the Rim Village Promenade. This level trail runs alongside the rim from the Rim Village Café and Gift Shop to the back terrace of Crater Lake Lodge. Accessible parking is located near the gift shop, with paved access to the trail behind the gift shop. When you get to the rim, make a right and continue along .3-miles until you hit the lodge.
Interpretive plaques are located along the way, and it’s the perfect spot for a selfie or two, as the views are grand. The trail is mostly paved, and undulating, with a slight change in elevation just past Kiser Studio. Still, most manual wheelchair-users can manage the grade with a little assistance. Alternatively, there’s ramp access down to the trail from the back terrace at Crater Lake Lodge. Either way, the views at both ends of the trail are equally impressive. Alternatively, if you don’t feel like hiking, then just sit and enjoy the lake view from the terrace. And, if you’d like to spend the night at the lodge, they do have a wheelchair-accessible room. (emerginghorizons.com/spend-the-night-at-wheelchair-accessible-crater-lake-lodge/). So pack your bags, and head to Crater Lake – it’s a great accessible destination.
The powers that be just announced that Yosemite entrance reservations will not be required for the popular national park 2026. What does this mean? Well although visitors won’t have to buy a special entrance reservation permit for a specific time to gain entrance to the park, there will still be a few restrictions.
2026 Yosemite Entrance Plan
Although you will be able to pass through the entrance gate to Yosemite National Park without any additional documentation in 2026, the park will “will continue to utilize strong traffic management strategies to support visitor safety, access, and resource protection.” More specifically, “If Yosemite Valley reaches capacity, vehicles will be redirected to other areas of the park, including Wawona, the Mariposa Grove, Tuolumne Meadows, and Glacier Point Road.”
So what does that mean? Even though you will be able to get in the gate, you may not be able to access Yosemite Valley (where the bulk of the favorite attractions are) if there’s too much traffic. And with Yosemite Valley being a favorite destination, this could be a daily occurrence.
So, the best advice to visitors is to get an alpine (early) start if you are planning to visit Yosemite Valley. To be honest, that’s the best plan of action anyway, as the afternoon crowds tend to detract from the Yosemite experience. And if you want a real time update on parking , text YOSEMITE to 333111. Additionally, for information about wheelchair-accessible things to do in Yosemite, visit Accessible Yosemite.
And although it hasn’t been officially announced, it’s assumed that folks with campground and lodging reservations will be allowed access to their accommodations.
So, get there early, park your car and take the wheelchair-accessible Yosemite shuttle to enjoy Yosemite Valley.
Historical Peninsula and Modern Skyline of Istanbul
Based in Istanbul, Accessible Turkey (accessibleturkey.org) offers a wide range of tourism services for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. They have a large selection of four-to-seven day guided tours to Antalya and Istanbul, which include lodging at wheelchair-accessible hotels, transportation in adapted vans and attraction admissions. Accessible day tours are also available in Antalya, Istanbul and Alana. Additionally, Accessible Turkey can custom tailor tours to fit specific interests and abilities, and arrange for independent stays in accessible hotels in Istanbul and Antalya. And if you’d like to do something more active, the agency can arrange for accessible dolphin swims, paragliding, rafting and SCUBA experiences. Accessible Turkey can also arrange for attendant care, accessible airport transfers, and medical equipment rental. For more information, visit their website or e-mail info@accessibleturkey.org.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
If you’re planning to visit some Washington State Parks in 2026, and you want to save a few bucks, then plan your visit for one of the fee-free days. Normally a Discover Pass is required in order to enter Washington State Parks, but on these 2026 dates you don’t need a pass and you don’t need to pay an entry fee.
Thursday, Jan. 1 – New Year’s Day and First Day Hikes
Monday, Jan. 19 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Monday, March 9 – Billy Frank Jr.’s Birthday
Thursday, March 19 – State Parks 113th Birthday
Wednesday, April 22 – Earth Day
Saturday – Sunday, June 6-7 – Free Fishing Weekend
Friday, June 19 – Juneteenth
Sunday, Aug. 9 – Smokey Bear’s Birthday
Saturday, Sept. 26 – National Public Lands Day
Saturday, Oct. 10 – World Mental Health Day
Wednesday, Nov. 11 – Veterans Day
Washington has a lot to offer state-park wise, and here are some of our favorites. And we’ve really been impressed with their wheelchair access too.
If you’d like to visit a Washington State Park at other times during the year, and you happened to have a disability, then you can get a free Washington State Disability Pass. This pass can be used in place of a Discover Pass. Pass holders get the following benefits at Washington state lands.
Free parking and entrance to all state parks (no Discover Pass needed)
The form is pretty simple to fill out, but you do need to submit a few things with it.
Proof of Residency
This can be your drivers license or a Washington state ID card, but it must list your Washington address. You must be a Washington resident for at least three consecutive months in order to apply.
Proof of Disability
A copy of an accessible parking placard (not expired) is acceptable for proof of disability. If you don’t have that, then an eligibility letter for state or federal disability benefits will suffice.
There’s no charge to apply for the pass, and it’s good for either one or five years. So get yours today, and start exploring the accessible Washington national parks.
The Grand Canyon is definitely a must-see on the life bucket list. Most people arrive at this popular national park by car, as there’s not exactly an international airport on the rim. That said, there’s an alternative way to get to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon – ride the rails on the Grand Canyon Railway (www.thetrain.com)). And not only is this journey scenic, it’s also wheelchair-accessible. So check out this fun excursion on your next Arizona visit.
The Historic Williams Depot
This scenic rail excursion begins at the Williams Depot; and despite the historic nature of the building, there’s good wheelchair access to all areas. The Fray Marcos Hotel — which opened to the public in 1908 — once occupied the left portion of the depot. Today most vestiges of this 43-room Harvey House are gone;, however there are some vintage photos in the former lobby which is located next to the gift shop.
And while you’re at the depot, there’s also a little entertainment before boarding the train. The local marshal and the nefarious Cataract Creek Gang stage a wild west shootout before the train departs. There is level access to the show area, and wheelchair-accessible seating is available in front of the bleachers or at nearby tables. Then after the shootout, everyone heads over to the train.
Cataract Creek Gang at the Grand Canyon Railway
Access Aboard the Railway
Boarding the Grand Canyon Rail
The excellent access at the Grand Canyon Railway continues with pre-boarding, when wheelchair-users and slow walkers are boarded before the rest of the passengers. Access is good on this historic train; and train buffs are wowed by the vintage train cars which are pulled by diesel locomotives. There are six classes of service, with Pullman, Coach and First Class being the most accessible.
The Harriman-Style Pullman cars have bench seats that flip so families can sit together and windows that open; while the Budd coach cars have front facing bench seats and air conditioning. The first-class cars have comfortable reclining seats, large windows and air conditioning. All of these cars can be accessed by a portable lift, and they all have wheelchair tie-downs and nearby companion seats. Accessible restrooms with grab bars, wide doorways and ample pathways are also located in these cars
And of course, if you just can’t make up your mind about which class to book, you can always mix classes; and take one class going up and another on the return trip.
The Trip and Beyond
Hopi House on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon
The journey to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon takes about two hours, and you just can’t beat the passing scenery. As an added bonus, roving musicians entertain passengers with western songs along the way. And on-board attendants are always available to field questions and suggest activities for the stop on the South Rim.
Once the train arrives, passengers can explore the South Rim on the the wheelchair-accessible Grand Canyon shuttle. The return train departs for Williams about three hours later; however if you’d like to spend more time on the South Rim you can extend your visit for a night or two. The railway also offers South Rim hotel packages with wheelchair-accessible rooms. And if you’d like to spend the night in Williams after the train returns, they also have wheelchair-accessible rooms at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel.
No matter which package you choose, you’ll have a great time on this scenic railway. Not only is the scenery second-to-none, but the railway employees are extremely accommodating. It’s a great wheelchair-accessible way to experience the Grand Canyon.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon 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.
