Serpent Mound, located in Adams County, Ohio, is the largest surviving effigy mound in the world, believed to have been constructed by ancient Native American cultures. Spanning over 1,300 feet in length, this ancient earthwork is shaped like an uncoiling serpent and has been a subject of archaeological interest and cultural importance for centuries. The park surrounding Serpent Mound offers a peaceful, educational experience, and efforts have been made to provide wheelchair access to the main viewpoints and interpretive areas.
Paved Pathways and Viewing Platform
- Main Viewing Platform: One of the key features for visitors is the observation platform, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the Serpent Mound. The platform is wheelchair accessible, with ramps leading to the elevated structure. This allows visitors using wheelchairs to get a clear view of the full length of the effigy, which is not easily visible from ground level.
- Paved Pathways: A well-maintained paved path circles the mound, allowing wheelchair users to explore the site without difficulty. The path is level and smooth, providing easy access to key points around the mound. Signage along the trail offers educational information about the history and significance of the site.
- Accessible Benches: Along the paved path, there are benches for resting, with some space near the benches left open for wheelchair access.
Visitor Center
The Visitor Center is fully accessible, featuring ramps, wide doors, and exhibits placed at heights suitable for wheelchair users. Inside, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that cover the history, geology, and cultural significance of Serpent Mound. The visitor center also includes a gift shop and educational displays.
- Accessible Restrooms: Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available in the visitor center. These restrooms are equipped with wide doors, grab bars, and ample space for maneuvering.
- Interactive Displays: Some of the educational displays and interpretive signage in the visitor center are interactive and positioned at heights that make them accessible for visitors using wheelchairs.
Parking
Designated accessible parking spots are located near the entrance to the Serpent Mound trail and the visitor center. These spots are close to the paved pathways and offer direct access to the mound and facilities.
Barriers
- Uneven Terrain Beyond the Paved Paths: While the paved pathways provide access around the mound, some parts of the site feature grassy areas or uneven terrain that may be challenging for wheelchair users. These areas include the edges of the park and some sections near the mound’s tail and head, where the ground may be slightly uneven or sloped.
- Access to the Rest of the Park: Although the primary path around the Serpent Mound is accessible, some natural areas within the park, including wooded trails and picnic areas, may have gravel or uneven surfaces. These trails are less suitable for wheelchair access due to the terrain.
