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The new way Zion visitors can explore rugged trails
A new lending program helps travelers with disabilities explore more of Zion’s iconic landscapes and hiking trails.
Eve Chen
There’s nothing like exploring the great outdoors, but it’s not always easy or possible for travelers with disabilities. But one of America’s most popular parks, Zion, has just expanded its accessibility.
“We’re excited to announce the launch of a new all-terrain wheelchair lending program designed to expand trail access for visitors with disabilities, mobility challenges, or injuries,” the Utah park recently posted on Instagram.
More than a quarter of U.S. adults have some kind of disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Here’s what visitors should know about the program and others across the National Park System.
Wheelchair rental at Zion National Park
Zion’s new Extreme Motus all-terrain wheelchair is available free of charge, through the support of the park’s nonprofit partner, the Zion Forever Project.
The wheelchair is available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Reservations are not available, and only single-day rental is allowed.
Prospective users should note that an assistant is required to push the wheelchair, and both the user and assistant must fill out a waiver and undergo training before checking the wheelchair out. Proof of identification and insurance is also required from either the user or assistant.
It’s also worth noting that the wheelchair is too big for Zion’s shuttle buses, so users will be given an accessibility pass to park along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during shuttle season.
Where the wheelchair may be used
- Cable Mountain Trail via Stave Spring
- Chinle Trail
- Coalpits Wash Trail
- Deer Trap Trail via Stave Spring
- East Rim Trail
- Grotto Trail
- Hop Valley Trail
- Lower Emerald Pools Trail
- Middle Emerald Pools Trail
- Observation Point Trail via East Mesa
- Pa’rus Trail
- Riverside Walk Trail
- Taylor Creek Trail
- Weeping Rock Trail
- West Rim Trail
- Wildcat Trail to Hop Valley
Where the wheelchair can’t be used
- Angels Landing
- Canyon Overlook
- Upper Emerald Pools
- Zion Narrows
- Connection between Lower Emerald Pools and Middle Emerald Pools
- Connection between Kayenta Trail and Middle Emerald Pools Trail
Additionally, Zion’s website notes, “You may wish to have additional assistants on trails like Weeping Rock, West Rim, Middle Emerald Pools, and the Watchman due to the steepness and/or rugged nature of those trails.”
Mobility devices at other national parks
The National Park Service has prioritized making parks accessible for visitors of all abilities.
Nearly 30 National Park Service units loan out beach wheelchairs, all-terrain wheelchairs or other mobility devices. They are listed by state on the Park Service’s website.
Other types of accommodations vary by park, with details on each park’s website.
Additionally, free park entry is available for Americans with permanent disabilities.
Zion entry typically costs between $20 to $35 for U.S. residents. Non-residents over 15 must pay an additional $100 per person fee.
Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/travel/
