There are thousands of books out there that can tell you about the great trails throughout the United States. They describe the trail and rate it's difficulty. But, more often than not the difficulty ratings are useless to the wheelchair hiker.

Here you will find trails and paths that we have actually experienced. We will rate them for you. Our rating system is far from scientific, but you will have a realistic view of what lays ahead. You and you alone are responsible for your own safety. If you feel uncomfortable about any given trail DON'T DO IT. Everyone has different abilities so use your best judgement. Most of these trails are easy, but some will be very difficult and possibly dangerous for the wheelchair user. If you are new to wheelchair adventuring, stick to the easy trails until YOU feel you are ready for something more difficult. ALWAYS hike with a friend and/or relative and stick together.

Another thing you need to know before you go is your rights. Technically, in wilderness areas you can not take a mechanical and/or motorized vehicle. Some people in the past have understood that to mean wheelchairs. Not to worry, this was resolved over 20 years ago. The Americans with Disabilities Act define our access rights and the Wildness Access Decision Tool defined what constitutes an adaptive device. Essentially, if you have a disability as defined by the ADA you can use any adaptive device as long as that device can be driven inside. So, any mechanical or electric wheelchair can, by law, go into wilderness areas. You can not use an adaptive device that uses a gas engine.

Don't forget if you have a permanent disability you are eligible for Access Pass. The pass is free. You and everyone in your vehicle gets free admission to all the National Parks. Check out the USGS page for other benefits.

If you have a favorite trail, please let us know and we will add it to our list.