Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Leading in Accessible Outdoor Experiences
Tactile outdoor wayfinding map along the Grant Tree Trail in Kings Canyon National Park
Photo by Brian Petersen (originally published at www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/accessibilityplanning.htm)
The experiences available on public lands are for everyone. This is why the National Park Service (NPS) believes in providing accessible opportunities for people with disabilities. From accessible trails for wheelchair users to accessible exhibits with features for people who are blind, to audio material that is captioned for those with hearing disabilities, NPS units across the country are working to ensure all visitors can have a meaningful national park experience. One of the best tools that people with disabilities can use in planning their visit to a national park is the park’s website. The website will help individuals choose experiences that match both the individuals interests and abilities. Some great examples can be found at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, where sites such as the Hazelwood Nature Loop, provide opportunity for wheelchair users to experience park trails and interactive exhibits. Some of the parks key accessibility features include:
Hospital Rock Picnic Area features wayside exhibits with audible and tactile components for the blind.
Kings Canyon Visitors Center features an open captioned video series.
Hazelwood Nature loop within the Giant Forest features the wheelchair accessible Big Tree Trail.
In addition to accessible experiences, the park provides accessible opportunities for visitors in the Cedar Grove, Mineral King and several other areas within the park. To learn more about accessible at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, visit the park’s accessibility page.
