The Dakotas offer a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming communities that make them an appealing destination for all travelers, including those using wheelchairs. From the majestic Badlands to vibrant cityscapes, North and South Dakota provide accessible experiences that ensure everyone can enjoy the region’s unique offerings. Additionally, both states offer various adaptive recreation programs that cater to individuals with disabilities, making outdoor adventures more accessible.
South Dakota
A trip to South Dakota wouldn’t be complete without visiting the iconic Mount Rushmore. The Avenue of Flags, Grand View Terrace, and the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center are fully accessible. Accessible parking is available, and the park provides wheelchairs free of charge at the visitor center.
The dramatic landscapes of the Badlands are a must-see. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is fully accessible. The park offers accessible boardwalk trails, such as the Window Trail and the Door Trail, which provide spectacular views of the rugged terrain.
This expansive park offers diverse wildlife and scenic drives.The Peter Norbeck Visitor Center and many scenic overlooks are accessible. The park also offers accessible cabins and campsites, as well as trails like the Badger Clark Historic Trail.
4. Sioux Falls
The largest city in South Dakota, Sioux Falls is known for its beautiful parks and cultural attractions. Falls Park, with its stunning waterfalls, is highly accessible, featuring smooth pathways and an accessible visitor center. The SculptureWalk downtown offers an accessible outdoor art exhibit.
An ongoing tribute to Native American heritage, the Crazy Horse Memorial is both a historical and cultural landmark. The visitor complex is wheelchair accessible, and shuttle buses to the base of the mountain are equipped to handle wheelchairs.
The SculptureWalk in Sioux Falls is an exciting, year-round exhibit that showcases sculptures from artists around the world. It features dozens of sculptures displayed along the sidewalks of downtown Sioux Falls, making it a vibrant and ever-changing outdoor art gallery. The sidewalks where the sculptures are displayed are wheelchair-friendly, with smooth, wide paths and curb cuts at intersections. The sculptures are placed at intervals along the sidewalks, allowing for easy viewing without obstacles. Plaques with information about each sculpture and the artist are placed at a readable height, ensuring that all visitors can learn about the artworks.
7. Adaptive Recreation Programs in South Dakota
- South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks: Offers adaptive hunting and fishing programs with accessible equipment and facilities. Many state parks, including Custer State Park and Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, have accessible trails, fishing piers, and campsites.
- Great Bear Ski Valley (Sioux Falls): Provides adaptive skiing and snowboarding programs with trained instructors and adaptive equipment.
- South Dakota Adaptive Sports (SDAS): Offers various adaptive sports opportunities, including wheelchair basketball and hand cycling.
- Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation: Features a range of adaptive recreation programs, such as swimming, yoga, and summer camps tailored for individuals with disabilities.
North Dakota
Named after the conservationist president, this park offers rugged scenery and wildlife. The South Unit Visitor Center is fully accessible. The park offers accessible campsites and scenic drives, such as the Painted Canyon Overlook, which is wheelchair-friendly. The park’s South Unit also features accessible trails.
2. Fargo
Fargo, the largest city in North Dakota, combines modern amenities with Midwestern charm. The Fargo Air Museum and the Plains Art Museum are fully accessible. The Red River Zoo offers accessible paths and facilities. The city’s downtown area has accessible sidewalks and entrances to many shops and restaurants.
3. Bismarck
The state capital is rich in history and culture. The North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum is fully accessible and offers exhibits that are easy to navigate. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park has accessible trails and an accessible visitor center.
4. Grand Forks
A vibrant college town with plenty to offer. The University of North Dakota campus is highly accessible. The Ralph Engelstad Arena, home to the UND hockey team, is fully accessible. The Greenway, a large park along the Red River, features accessible trails and picnic areas.
Straddling the border between North Dakota and Canada, this garden symbolizes peace and friendship. The garden features accessible pathways, and both the conservatory and the interpretive center are fully accessible. There are accessible restrooms and parking areas as well.
6. Adaptive Recreation Programs in North Dakota
- North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department: Ensures that state parks and recreational areas are accessible to all visitors. Some parks, like Fort Stevenson State Park, offer adaptive equipment rentals, including beach wheelchairs, and many parks have accessible trails and facilities.
- Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute (Fargo): Offers adaptive skiing and snowboarding programs, along with other adaptive sports and recreational activities.
- NDAD Adaptive Recreation: North Dakota Association for the Disabled (NDAD) provides resources and organizes events for adaptive sports, such as wheelchair basketball and adaptive cycling.
- Bismarck Parks and Recreation District: Offers adaptive recreation programs, including accessible swimming lessons, adaptive fitness classes, and inclusive playground.
North and South Dakota are committed to providing accessible and inclusive recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities. From adaptive skiing and cycling to accessible state parks and recreational programs, there are numerous ways for wheelchair users to enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities these states have to offer. With proper planning and the availability of adaptive equipment and facilities, a trip to the Dakotas can be both enjoyable and fulfilling for everyone. Enjoy your journey!
