Exploring river destinations that cater to wheelchair users combines the tranquility of nature with the assurance of accessibility. The United States offers a variety of such spots, ranging from luxurious resorts to serene state parks. Here’s a curated list of wheelchair-accessible river getaways:
1. Snake River Lodge & Spa – Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Located at the base of the Teton Mountains, Snake River Lodge & Spa is a luxury retreat with stunning views and year-round outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy scenic river walks, wildlife viewing, and access to adaptive outdoor adventures. The lodge offers rooms with king, queen, or double beds, and some include sleeper sofas. Accessible rooms are available, but guests should confirm roll-in showers and grab bars before booking. The resort has both indoor and outdoor pools, though travelers should check for pool lift availability directly with the property.
Nearby, Teton Adaptive offers adaptive cycling, paddling, skiing, and yoga, while Jackson Hole Mountain Resort provides adaptive mountain biking and climbing experiences. However, the mountainous terrain in the area may require additional adaptive equipment or assistance.
2. Wilderness at the Smokies – Sevierville, Tennessee
The Wilderness at the Smokies is family-friendly resort located near the Little Pigeon River. The property features multiple indoor and outdoor waterparks, making it an exciting destination for travelers of all ages. Accessible accommodations include king suites with sleeper sofas, double queen rooms, and executive suites with full kitchens. Bathrooms are equipped with roll-in showers or bathtubs with grab bars, portable shower seats, higher toilets with grab bars, and lowered sinks.
While the resort is designed for accessibility, pool lift availability should be confirmed before booking. Adaptive recreation options in the area include Adaptive Adventures, which provides cycling, kayaking, and climbing experiences. However, guests may need to travel to nearby locations for a wider variety of adaptive activities.
3. Hot Springs Resort & Spa – Hot Springs, North Carolina
Located along the French Broad River, the Hot Springs Resort & Spa is known for its naturally heated mineral springs, making it an ideal relaxation-focused getaway. The resort offers various accommodations, though travelers should call ahead to confirm accessibility details, including roll-in showers and grab bars. The main attraction—the mineral hot springs—includes private soaking tubs, but guests should verify if accessible tubs with transfer assistance are available.
For those interested in outdoor recreation, the Nantahala Outdoor Center offers adaptive whitewater rafting and paddling experiences. However, travelers may need accessible transportation to reach these activities.
4. Ohiopyle State Park – Pennsylvania
Ohiopyle State Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise, featuring breathtaking waterfalls, scenic trails, and the Youghiogheny River, which is popular for rafting and kayaking. While the park does not have a traditional resort, it does offer accessible cabin and camping accommodations. Some trails and viewing areas are wheelchair-friendly, though travelers should confirm availability before visiting.
The Pennsylvania Center for Adapted Sports provides adaptive kayaking and cycling programs, enhancing the experience for wheelchair users. However, certain areas of the park may have rugged terrain that requires adaptive equipment or assistance.
5. River Terrace Inn – Napa Valley, California
The River Terrace Inn is an elegant riverside retreat offering an accessible and tranquil experience along the Napa River. Guests will find mobility-accessible rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered closet rods, ensuring a comfortable stay. The hotel’s outdoor spaces, including its riverside dining areas, are fully accessible, with step-free access to lounge spaces and pathways.
The surrounding Napa Valley area offers accessible wine tours and scenic outdoor experiences, though some wineries and nature trails may require additional planning to ensure full accessibility.
6. Rio Bella Resort – Rio Frio, Texas
Located on the banks of the Frio River, Rio Bella Resort offers stunning views and accessible accommodations. The “Pecos” cabin is fully wheelchair-accessible, featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Guests can enjoy riverside relaxation, fishing, and kayaking, all within an inclusive environment.
7. The Broadmoor – Colorado Springs, Colorado
A luxury resort set near Cheyenne Lake, The Broadmoor provides a five-star experience with wheelchair-friendly amenities. The resort offers ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, lowered amenities, and a fully accessible paved pathway around the lake for scenic exploration.
8. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area – Georgia
Preserving a 48-mile stretch of the Chattahoochee River, this national recreation area offers accessible outdoor experiences. The Cochran Shoals unit in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area features a 3-mile wheelchair-friendly fitness trail, perfect for bird and wildlife watching. Fishing areas and scenic viewpoints are also accessible, making this a great option for nature lovers.
9. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort – Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Famous for its therapeutic hot springs, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort ensures accessibility for all guests. A hydraulic lift is available for entry into the main pool, and a ramp provides access to the Therapy Pool, making it one of the most accessible hot springs in the country.
10. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island – Florida
This Ritz-Carlton oceanfront retreat along Florida’s Atlantic coast features wheelchair-friendly rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars. Pool lifts are available for all swimming areas, and beach wheelchairs can be requested, allowing guests to enjoy the sandy shores with ease.
