Trails in National Parks That Are Truly Accessible

As a wheelchair user, discovering accessible outdoor spaces fills me with joy and freedom. There's nothing quite like navigating open landscapes and inhaling the earthy aromas of trees, flowers, and grass while the wind dances through my hair. However, rocky paths with roots, fallen branches, and debris can hinder my ability to enjoy the trail in my powered wheelchair, potentially ruining my outdoor experience.

When trails are designed with inclusivity in mind, I become my happiest self. My love for the great outdoors began when my family took me to Great Smoky Mountains National Park at the age of six. I fondly recall that trip, watching bears and admiring waterfalls, and even enjoying a picnic in the park. Back then, my mom could easily carry me wherever I wanted to go, regardless of accessibility. Now, in my 30s and using a powered wheelchair full-time, I must research accessibility before visiting a national park. Thankfully, most park websites provide some information on accessibility, but I also depend on platforms like AllTrails. Once at the park, I find it helpful to visit the visitor center to ask about accessible trails; park rangers have always been friendly and incredibly helpful in guiding me to suitable options.

Each trail listed below is accessible for everyone, regardless of mobility devices, featuring smooth paths and stunning scenery. Let’s dive in so you can start enjoying outdoor adventures right away.

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

Yosemite National Park, California

Situated in Yosemite National Park in California, the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail is one of my top accessible trails. This fully paved, one-mile loop leads you right to the base of one of North America’s tallest waterfalls, and I can assure you, it’s truly breathtaking! The pathway is generally flat and wide, though there are a few steep sections that add up to a total elevation gain of 50 feet. I navigated it easily in my powered wheelchair, and I also spotted several manual wheelchair users on the trail. On a hot day, you’ll appreciate the refreshing mist from the waterfall, which you can feel from the viewing area at the end of the trail. There are spots to sit and rest at the base of the falls as well.

Jesup Path and Hemlock Loop

Acadia National Park, Maine

I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Acadia National Park in Maine—not just for its stunning scenery. I was delighted to find that the majority of the 45 miles of carriage roads are wheelchair accessible, thanks to their smooth surfaces that are easy to navigate. These roads are 16 feet wide and constructed from hard-packed gravel, allowing my powered wheelchair to roll along effortlessly. Additionally, I explored the Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop, which meanders through the woods and marshes for about 1.5 miles round trip, featuring raised wooden boardwalks and compacted gravel sections.

Limberlost Trail

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The Limberlost Trail is a scenic mile-long loop winding through the forests of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. Constructed from crushed greenstone, it includes a bridge and boardwalk, making it easily accessible. Along this trail, you'll discover numerous resting spots, with around 20 benches and areas where wheelchair users can pause and relax. If you're fortunate, you might catch a glimpse of some wildlife; during my visit, I spotted several deer darting across the path.

Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can appreciate stunning views while driving through areas like Cades Cove and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. However, the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail offers a chance to connect with the park’s beauty on foot. This accessible half-mile path is flat and paved, winding along the river, allowing you to enjoy the soothing sounds of the flowing water. Along the route, you’ll find multiple benches and paved spots for relaxation.

Trail of the Cedars

Glacier National Park, Montana

The Trail of the Cedars stretches for about half a mile, starting and finishing along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, the 50-mile scenic route that showcases Glacier National Park’s beauty. The trail features a paved surface with some boardwalk sections, ensuring a smooth and accessible experience. Towering red cedars—some reaching heights of over 80 feet and aged more than 500 years—populate this area, often referred to as the “land of the giants.” Be sure to take a moment to admire Avalanche Gorge and Avalanche Creek, which flow through the trail.

Additional resources for accessible trails

Emerging Horizons

Candy Harrington has authored numerous blog posts and books focused on accessibility within national parks, providing in-depth information on trails, accommodations, and more.

National Park Capable

Amanda Powell documents her accessible adventures in national parks as a person with cerebral palsy and organizes accessible group hikes in various parks.

Disabled Hikers

This completely disabled-led organization is dedicated to providing extensive accessibility information about outdoor areas. Their website features trail guides for various routes across multiple states, and they are continually updating with new details.