The West Point Inn is nestled on the slopes of Mt. Tamalpais in Mill Valley, California, not far from Muir Woods and Stinson Beach. It’s a historical property that has been catering to tourists for decades. Getting here is the biggest challenge. For people who do not have limited physical mobility, visitors must either hike to bike to lodge, and since it’s on top of a peak, it’s a definitely a commitment. Wheelchair travelers and those with limited mobility, overnight guests are permitted to used the one dirt service road to get to the property.
Cabins
A few cabins are available for overnight guests, and two of these cabins have been modified for more accessibility. The first to be made available at the West Point Inn is #8 the Toby Cabin, which is located off the lodge’s outside patio. This cabin has a partial southern view, one double bed and a private accessible toilet and sink. If needing to shower, guests are advised to use the roll-in shower at the patio bathroom just off the lodge, and up a small ramp from Cabin #8.
In 2017, #14 the Emig Cabin was added because of money kindly donated by a trust to make Mt. Tam more wheelchair accessible. In addition to a double bed, there’s also a single bed that folds down from the wall for a caregiver or extra guest. The double bed has been created with clearance Hoyer lift, but guests must provide their own. What makes this cabin unique and ADA is that there is also a private roll-in shower with hand-held shower nozzle and mounted bench. Also, in this space is a roll-up sink and toilet with grab-bars. Temperatures on Mt. Tamalpais are often chilly, so a heated system has been included in cabin #14, but there’s no cooling system or fan. Power outlets are also in this cabin.
Reservations: Call 415-388-9955 or email reservations@westpointinn.com for assistance.
Guest Info and Tips
- In-and-Out Privileges: Guests are advised to stay at the property during the staying for safety reasons. A code must be obtained to access the road. One designated, wheelchair accessible parking spot is located right outside the lodge and Cabin #14. When parking, park facing the road to ensure a quick get-a-away in case of an emergency or fire. This is a rule enforced by park rangers.
- Food and Water: Tap water is offered at the lodge, but you may want to bring your own along with anything else that you may want to eat or drink.
- Bedding: Pillows and comforters are provided, but guests are required to bring their own pillow cases, sheets and towels. If not some can be rented for an additional cost.
- Hot Weather: Bring a fan during warmer months. The location is just above the fog-line so it’s doesn’t get cooled down.
- Door Lock: Numbered key-code.
- Seating Areas: A table inside and outside has been raised to accommodate people using wheelchairs. Please get help from the innkeeper if the table needs to be moved to another location.
- Kitchen: The layout is open with space to move around when the kitchen is not in use. During the dinner hour, the kitchen gets crowded, so consider doing any food prep during off-hours. A low shelf with selected kitchen items has been designated for people who cannot reach the higher shelves. If you cannot reach any of the community kitchen items, like cooking oils and seasonings, please notify the innkeeper.
- Lodge Bathrooms: A toilet on the patio and inside the dining hall have been modified for more access. The bathroom on the patio has roll-in shower, though at the time of my visit, it was being used as storage. The innkeeper can move this if needed.