Thousand Islands National Park, nestled along the St. Lawrence River in Ontario, is a lesser-known Canadian treasure that offers serene landscapes, water-based adventures, and accessible facilities for wheelchair travelers. From smooth, wheelchair-friendly trails to adaptive kayaking and accessible camping options, this park provides an inclusive outdoor experience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous day trip, Thousand Islands National Park has something for everyone.
Why Visit Thousand Islands National Park?
Thousand Islands National Park provides an exceptional balance of accessible outdoor activities and serene natural beauty. The combination of wheelchair-friendly trails, adaptive kayaking, accessible boat tours, and camping options ensures that visitors with mobility challenges can enjoy everything the park has to offer. Its proximity to other attractions and charming towns makes it an ideal destination for a day trip or an extended stay.
Accessible Trails
- Mallorytown Landing Visitor Centre Trail (0.3 miles or 0.5 km): The trail winds through lush greenery and offers scenic views of the St. Lawrence River. Interpretive signs along the way provide insights into the park’s ecology and history. The trail is smooth, paved, and well-maintained, making it wheelchair-accessible.
Water-Based Accessibility
- Adaptive Kayaking and Canoeing: Nearby outfitters in Gananoque and Rockport offer adaptive kayaks equipped with stabilizers and adjustable seating. These allow wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges to safely explore the waters around the islands.
- Accessible Boat Tours: Cruise companies in the area provide wheelchair-friendly boats, with ramps, accessible seating, and restrooms. These tours offer breathtaking views of the park’s many islands, wildlife, and landmarks such as Boldt Castle.
Accessible Camping and Picnicking
- oTENTiks at Mallorytown Landing: These tent-cabin hybrids are wheelchair-accessible with step-free entry, wide doors, and accessible washrooms nearby. They provide a comfortable and inclusive way to enjoy the outdoors. Heating and lighting make them a cozy option for all seasons.
- Picnic Areas: Accessible picnic tables are located near the visitor center and along the waterfront, connected by paved paths. These spots are perfect for enjoying the views while sharing a meal.
Wildlife Viewing
- Accessible Lookouts: Wheelchair-accessible platforms at key spots along the St. Lawrence River provide stunning views of the islands and opportunities to spot herons, turtles, osprey, and other local wildlife.
- Birdwatching Paths: Paved trails near the visitor center are great for birdwatching and are equipped with benches for resting and informational plaques.
Ranger Programs and Events
- Interactive Programs: Wheelchair-accessible ranger talks and guided walks provide fascinating insights into the park’s ecology, history, and local wildlife.
- Adaptive Fishing Clinics: Occasionally, the park collaborates with local organizations to offer fishing clinics with adaptive gear for visitors with mobility challenges.
Accessible Places to Stay Near Thousand Islands National Park
Finding accessible accommodations near Thousand Islands National Park is key to making your visit comfortable and stress-free. The surrounding area, including Gananoque and Rockport, offers a variety of wheelchair-friendly hotels, inns, and camping options. Here are some top choices:
- The Gananoque Inn & Spa – Gananoque, Ontario: Wheelchair-accessible rooms with wide doorways, step-free entry, and accessible bathrooms equipped with grab bars and roll-in showers. Located on the waterfront, this charming inn offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and is just minutes away from boat tours. On-site dining and spa services make it a relaxing choice for travelers.
- Holiday Inn Express 1000 Islands – Gananoque, Ontario: ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, accessible parking, and elevators. This modern hotel offers complimentary breakfast, a heated indoor pool with a lift, and proximity to local attractions, including the Thousand Islands Parkway and Gananoque’s waterfront.
- Comfort Inn & Suites Thousand Islands Harbour District – Gananoque, Ontario: Ground-floor accessible rooms with grab bars in the bathrooms, step-free entry, and accessible common areas. This centrally located hotel is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and waterfront paths, making it an ideal base for exploring Gananoque and the surrounding area.
- Glen House Resort – Lansdowne, Ontario: Select rooms with step-free entry, grab bars, and spacious layouts for ease of navigation. Call ahead to confirm specific accessibility details. Situated right on the river, this resort features an accessible restaurant, heated pools, and outdoor activities like fishing and birdwatching.
- 1000 Islands Ivy Lea KOA – Ivy Lea, Ontario: Accessible cabins with step-free entry, accessible washrooms, and paved pathways throughout the campground. Located close to the park, this campground offers a rustic but comfortable option for wheelchair users. The site includes a heated pool, accessible picnic areas, and fire pits.
- Capt. Thomson’s Resort – Alexandria Bay, New York (for U.S.-based travelers): Wheelchair-accessible rooms with step-free access, grab bars, and spacious layouts. Situated on the U.S. side of the St. Lawrence River, this resort provides easy access to Boldt Castle and Thousand Islands boat tours, many of which are wheelchair-friendly.
Scenic Drives and Nearby Attractions
- Thousand Islands Parkway: A 24-mile scenic drive with wheelchair-accessible viewpoints and picnic stops along the St. Lawrence River. These spots are perfect for soaking in the stunning views of the islands and waterways.
- Gananoque: Known as the “Gateway to the Thousand Islands,” Gananoque offers accessible restaurants, shops, and waterfront pathways for a pleasant outing.
