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  • Rialto Beach Trail | Disabled Hikers

    I'm a The northern Olympic coast is miles of protected wilderness, and much of it is difficult to access without long hikes. Rialto Beach, a part of Olympic National Park, is one of the more accessible, and popular, coastal areas. While many of the beaches feature huge driftwood logs and towering sea stacks, Rialto is unique in the number and size of the logs. The beach also offers a view of James Island, known as A-Ka-Lat to the Quileute. Rialto Beach Trail The Rundown Spoon Rating: 2 Distance: 2 miles Elevation Change: 250 ft. Typical Surface: paved Typical Width: unlisted Nearest Town: La Push, WA. Cell Phone Reception: Spotty Amenities: Accessible toilet, ramp in the summer, seating area Why go? I'm a The northern Olympic coast is miles of protected wilderness, and much of it is difficult to access without long hikes. Rialto Beach , a part of Olympic National Park, is one of the more accessible, and popular, coastal areas. While many of the beaches feature huge driftwood logs and towering sea stacks, Rialto is unique in the number and size of the logs. The beach also offers a view of James Island, known as A-Ka-Lat to the Quileute. Keep an eye out for the pair(s) of Bald Eagles, particularly around sunset. The Hike Rialto Beach is not a trail exactly. The coast here offers a two mile walk to Hole-in-the-Wall, a rock arch with numerous tide pools and scenic views along the way. It is a part of the much longer Olympic Wilderness Coast trail. A rocky beach at high tide. There is a line of evergreen trees on the right side of the frame and many large logs on the sloping beach. The forested coastline curves to the left forming a cove. Waves are washing up on the shore, and there are two people standing on a log in midframe. PC: Syren Nagakyrie Rialto Beach is not a trail exactly. The coast here offers a two mile walk to Hole-in-the-Wall, a rock arch with numerous tide pools and scenic views along the way. It is a part of the much longer Olympic Wilderness Coast trail. To access the beach, you can follow a paved trail from the parking area past the accessible vault toilets to a sandy area, or go directly to either side of dumpsters to walk up a slightly sloping cobblestone bank. In the summertime the Park Service may install a wheelchair accessible ramp to an overlook. There are also places where you can walk on sand or compact stones to reach an area to sit on a log and watch the sea, without going out onto the beach. There are picnic tables but these do not provide very good views. Since driftwood and rocks shift often, you may have to walk around a little bit to find a good place for a view or to access the beach. Huge logs are scattered around and form walls in many places closer to the tree line, which can be a barrier to accessing the beach. If you stay up in the forested area and walk much further than the picnic area, the logs and trees become closer together and difficult to cross without climbing, jumping, or stepping over them; there is not a clearly defined trail. The beach at Rialto is primarily deep, loose cobblestone, with some places of small-stone sand. The sand beach area is wider at low tide. The footing can be unsteady and you can expect to occasionally sink or shift as you walk. It is mostly level, though there may be some places where you will need to cross an embankment of stones. From the parking area, it is a one mile walk to Ellen Creek. In the rainy months, Ellen Creek swells to rushing size; in the summer it is a trickling flow. To cross the creek you either have to walk across it, which is easiest at low tide but you will still get your feet wet, or go higher up the beach and cross on a log. Sometimes the creek is such a trickle that it runs below the sand and there is no crossing. From Ellen Creek it is one mile to Hole-in-the-Wall. At low tide you can walk around the arch and explore tide pools. It is rocky and can be slick. There is an overland trail here as well which provides an overlook, but I have not been on that section yet. At high tide it can be very difficult to walk along the beach. There are many places where the tide and the logs can trap you, and the only way around is to climb over or along the logs. The waves here are very sneaky and will frequently wash higher on the beach than you might expect. But there are many places where you can still watch the waves from a safe distance – which I highly recommend. The shape of the coastline at Rialto produces some powerful and dramatic waves. You can check the tides here . Leashed pets are allowed to Ellen Creek. As in all otherwise off-limit areas, service animals are allowed on the entire beach. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: None. This is a fee-free area of Olympic National Park and the Quileute Indian Reservation. Getting There: From Highway 101 just north of Forks, turn west (the only turn) onto Highway 110 / La Push Road. There is a sign for Mora/La Push, and a sign for the Ki’tla Center. This highway is a smooth, paved, two lane highway at 50mph with a few gentle curves. You will drive through recently timbered forest, and then denser forest until you reach a 35 mph speed zone and small corner store and RV resort. Turn right here onto Highway 110 spur / Mora Rd. This is also a paved two lane road. As you approach the Olympic National Park boundary, the speed drops to 35 and then 25 mph. Here the road becomes a little narrower; it is still paved two lane, but there are no shoulders and it becomes a bit curvier as it follows the curve of the Quillayute River. There are a few pull outs. As the ocean comes into view, you will reach the Rialto Beach parking area. Turn right into the paved parking lot; this lot has a van accessible spot and accessible bathrooms. The left parking lot is gravel and frequently has obstacles in the way, but it does offer an easy view above the beach. Nearby Alternatives: For ocean views accessible by car, try La Push (guide to follow soon). Land Acknowledgement: Rialto Beach is on traditional Quileute Nation land.

  • Sample Trail Guide | Disabled Hikers

    Trail Name Overview Spoon Rating: Type: Distance: Starting Elevation: Elevation Gain: Average Grade: Max Grade: Max cross-slope: Typical width: Typical surface: Season/Schedule: Water availability: Sun exposure: Amenities: Pet friendly: Cell phone reception: Special notes: Nearest town: Land manager: Pass/entry fee: Date assessed: Why go? I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. The Hike INTRODUCTION I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Image Description: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. MIDDLE I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Image Description: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Image Description: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Image Description: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. END I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Getting There: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Nearby Alternatives: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Land Acknowledgement: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Trail Map Image Description: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

  • Bogachiel River Trail Guide | Disabled Hikers

    If you want solitude and an easier backcountry experience, the Bogachiel Rainforest is it. Located near Forks, WA the trail brings you directly into the wilderness and has little elevation change overall. But that does not mean it is easy. The elevation changes are steep and up and down, there are several water crossings in the rainy season, and the trail is very muddy. This guide offers trail stats and detailed information for the Bogachiel River Rainforest trail to the Ira Springs Wetland loop Bogachiel River Rainforest Trail The Rundown Spoon Rating: 5 Distance: 3.8 mi. loop; 3.6 mi. out and back Elevation Change: 210 ft. Typical Surface: Very soft – mud/earth. Areas of fresh composite gravel Typical Width: 2 ft Nearest Town: Forks, WA. Cell Phone Reception: Limited at trailhead, none on trail. Amenities: Open to dogs on leash Why go? If you want solitude and an easier backcountry experience, the Bogachiel Rainforest is it. Located near Forks, WA the trail brings you directly into the wilderness and has little elevation change overall. But that does not mean it is easy. The elevation changes are steep and up and down, there are several water crossings in the rainy season, and the trail is very muddy. Washington Trails crews have been doing extensive work clearing and rerouting the trail, and there are still improvements to be made; the river frequently washed out the trail, so now it bypasses the river and travels entirely through the rainforest. The Bogachiel is definitely a hidden gem. This guide offers trail stats and detailed information for the Bogachiel River Rainforest trail to the Ira Springs Wetland loop. The Hike The trail begins to the far-right side of the parking area next to a new forest service trail sign. The trail starts on a generally steep descent for the first 0.25 miles, beginning at about 430 feet elevation and losing about 115 feet. From the trailhead, immediately descend about 20 feet on loose gravel, curves to the left, and continues mostly level for about 100 feet before coming to another descent of about 15 feet. The trail rolls slightly, curves to the right and then comes to a turnpike (a raised section filled in with gravel over a generally wet area) – this entire section was recently improved by WTA. There is a step of about 4 inches at the end. Loose gravel continues as the trail descends more steeply on 3 uneven steps built into the trail with large rocks, with steep declines between. Past these steps, continue onto natural surface trail with areas of rocks and mud. As you follow the ridge, you can start to hear water flowing below. Come to a rocky area and slight step, continuing on very gradual descent, before descending more steeply over rocks and a muddy area. At 0.3 mile and 315 feet elevation you have now reached the river valley floor and the first creek. The trail curves to the right to the log crossing. Pass between two big trees over a slight hill and take a moment to appreciate the big Western Red Cedar as you approach the log bridge. Note: this creek is the easiest year-round access for water on the trail; if you had planned for water this is it, since the river is no longer accessible Log foot bridge over the creek. The log bridge begins with a wooden plank ramp covered with chicken wire for traction. This foot bridge is literally a log – a tree that stretches across the creek and has been somewhat leveled out on the top. It is very narrow with a hand rail on the left side, a couple of tree branches sticking out to maneuver around and some uneven footing. It ends in 3 steps on the opposite side. The next 1.5 miles of the trail is generally narrow, muddy, and mostly level. Just past the creek, you come to a fork for the Ira Springs Wetland loop– continue straight. You are now entering the fringes of a rainforest ecosystem, with mossy trees and sword fern groundcover. Continue for a few hundred feet to a sign for an overgrown fork heading right to the Homestead Loop. Continue left for the River Trail. From here the park boundary is approximately 1.8 miles. The trail continues generally narrow, level, and muddy. This area can be very buggy, so carry protection and be ready to just get through it as quickly as you can. At approximately 0.5 miles from the trailhead, come to Hurley Creek, with two options for the water crossing – on the right you can cross directly on rocks, to the left is a small log over the creek. Water levels were low, so I crossed on the creek. Just past the creek, the trail goes up a slight rocky hill for about 15 feet, then continues narrow and slightly muddy. At 0.8 miles come to the first deeply muddy area, this one about 20 feet long with rocks in trail. At 0.9 miles come to another fork; on the left is the beginning of the reroute built by WTA. You can continue straight for a short distance to the only view of the river at a small overlook. There is no easy place to get down to the river from here. After taking a moment to appreciate the Bogachiel River, return to the new trail. For the next 1.0 mile, you are basically going to be hiking in soft ground and mud through the rainforest. It is a beautiful area that was previously not easily accessible, and visiting in the dry season definitely makes it easier, but prepare for muddy boots and pants. The trail is generally level, gaining only about 20 feet with a few short ups-and-downs. The trail rolls slightly and curves right, before coming to a deeply rutted muddy area. A few hundred yards later roots cross the trail, rising 2-3 inches above the surface. You then come to a slight hill about 10 feet in distance with rough steps cut in to the natural surface. The trail continues slightly rolling, curves left, and rises another hill of about 5 feet; here you get a glimpse of the river through trees. Continue approximately 100 feet to a slight incline. At 1.3 miles come to a new footbridge over a creek. Take one step onto a ramp, one step onto the bridge, and two steps down. Trail becomes narrow and very muddy for about 100 feet, then dries out briefly and curves to the left to another muddy area with dryer shoulder, before coming to an area of deep mud and ruts for about 100 feet. The trail then becomes a narrow footpath through ferns encroaching on the trail before opening up again slightly into a beautiful area of the rainforest with tall Sitka Spruce, Hemlocks, and Vine Maples. An example of the generally muddy trail conditions. Narrow muddy trail through the rainforest, slight incline. Trail follows the hillside with western red cedar and hemlock surrounding. Trail curves left between several beautiful Sitka Spruce to a slight incline. It then curves right around a large tree then left up a slight incline of about 15 feet in distance, then curves right at the top of the hill. It continues slightly muddy and comes to an area of lots of rocks and roots in trail before entering a long area of deep mud. At 1.5 miles come to two hills. Start on a steep descent of 10 feet with rough steps cut into mud, then descend into mud and up another 10-foot-long hill. Trail rolls steeply again and comes to another 10-foot incline before leveling out as it approaches the river river. There is more beautiful old growth here, with roots crossing the trail. There is a small downed log over the trail, but can be walked around. The trail continues slightly muddy and rolls, with views of the river and mountains to the right, as you travel along a hillside above the river delta. Trail levels out and splits around tree. Curve to the right, then left and right again. Come to a muddy dip in the trail with an ephemeral (seasonal) stream. At 1.7 miles cross between old downed logs; this is a convenient place to stop and rest on one of the log rounds scattered by the trail. The trail then meets the end of the reroute and connects with the original trail. This well-established trail continues mostly level and dry but narrow and brushy. It curves to the left up a slight incline between tall trees and you can hear river – it continues to curve left and right a couple of times and then comes to the intersection with the Ira Springs Wetland Loop trail and the National Park Boundary. The park boundary is to the right; the trail ends at Kahkwa Creek. From this trail, there is a fork to the left that goes up and downhill steeply and a path straight ahead which is slightly steep and ends directly at the creek with a steep drop off. If you can hop down this might be a good place to get water. To continue on into the national park you must ford the creek. Back at the main trail, continue straight for the Ira Springs Wetland Loop trail. This trail is well established, but it is where all of the up and down in elevation change happens, and there are many creek crossings and loose boardwalks. If you had an easier time with the muddy Bogachiel river trail, you could choose to return the way you came. It is a beautiful trail, and there are lots of berries along the way – which also means be aware for bears, I saw one cub on my hike. The Ira Springs Wetland trail gains about 50 feet in the first 0.5 mile. It begins on a narrow well established corridor with 3-4 inch tree roots across the surface. Almost immediately, you come to an old, uneven boardwalk over the trail as it follows a creek. In a couple hundred feet pass narrowly between to two large Sitka Spruce and a Hemlock. Cross another old boardwalk with a slight step up, pass between more trees, and cross another boardwalk. There is a nice view overlooking a creek here, but the bank is eroding; it also provides a bypass around a very steep section of trail, but be very careful along the bank and only take it if you really need to. Then pass between trees again and step over a large root. Trail continues mostly level before coming to another old unstable boardwalk. Trail curves right and then climbs somewhat steeply for a distance of 50 feet with a gap in trail for seasonal water flow. It climbs more steeply with a couple of steps to another large gap in trail with log barricade on one side and steep, eroding bank on other side; there is a muddy area at the end of climb. Trail rolls a few times with roots breaking the surface, curves to the left and continues to climb. It then narrows with roots crossing the trail and a steep drop off on the right. Continue to curve left and right as the trail rolls slightly. Come to a fairly steep incline about 15 feet long, and then the trail continues to roll. The forest is newer here, with narrow trees along the hillside. Come to another old boardwalk with uneven and unstable boards and four steps. Next take two tall steps over tree roots. Continue uphill to another old boardwalk; cross boardwalk and come immediately to a creek with a boardwalk over. However, water flows over boardwalk, so it may be slick. Trail starts to roll downhill, crosses roots and continues to roll and curve around trees. Descend to a small creek, and rise on a slight incline to a dense hemlock forest. Take six steep steps to two small boardwalks over a creek, one step down, and pass between a small blow down already cut from trail. Cross a small stream to a muddy area before continuing to another short descent on logs placed into trail and a small boardwalk. Make a slightly steep descent around a tree about 15 feet long. Trail starts to level out, with roots breaking the surface. It is a bit slick and narrow as it curves to the right with a steep drop off. At 2.5 miles come to a foot bridge. Step down over a root on the other side of the bridge and cross another foot bridge. Trail curves to the left, slightly steep and muddy for about 20 feet. There is a small gap in trail for water with a step up on the other side, rocky, then another small gap. Come to boardwalk with 3 steep steps up and ends on a wet, rocky area. Trail curves right over roots to another uneven but mostly stable boardwalk with two steps. This is a beautiful wetland area with tall Sitka Spruce and cedar. Trail narrows with lots of roots and continues to curve and roll. Come to a tall Sitka Spruce right ahead, as the trail curves to the right around the tree with lots of roots in the path, some 6-10 inches high. You are roughly following the hillside, and can see top of hill above to right, wetland descending below. Trail descends somewhat steeply over roots for about 10 feet. Come to more trees in trail with tall roots to step over onto a muddy area. The trail narrows with a drop off on the left. Descend steeply about 50 feet, and start to roll downhill with sounds of a creek. Curve right and left on a brushy trail, and cross rocks on some steps up. At 2.7 miles, come to a creek with no footbridge. You can cross on rocks, but even with a low flow it was a little troublesome. There is a steep narrow step down to the creek and a steep and muddy step up. Trail continues with natural surface, curves around slight incline and then heads uphill for a distance of about 100 feet then back down passing narrowly around a tree with roots in the trail. Curve right again to another creek with no footbridge; it is a narrow gap with rocks to step across, fairly easy with low water flow. The trail generally continues to roll up and down on a narrow width with roots and mud as it follows the hillside, generally descending. Curve to the left going downhill then right before leveling; it then rolls and becomes narrow and uneven with several roots across to step over. Come to one very steep two foot step down from tree roots. Trail continues rocky and muddy, generally rolling but descending. Descend steeply to another small stream crossing about two feet across. It is immediately level on the other side of the stream then climbs steeply about 10 feet before continuing to roll up and down. Take three steep 1-2 foot steps over tree roots to a very muddy area on a descent of 40 feet. The trail continues to roll; you are back on the hillside overlooking wetland to the left with tall grasses and trees and sounds of a creek. The forest rises above on the right with views to the top of the ridge. Come to some steep steps over roots – careful of your footing, they are narrow and uneven. Come to another muddy area and then take two steps up onto an old boardwalk, step off onto muddy area and then another boardwalk. Trail narrows and gets brushy, descends steeply on a hill to another level boardwalk over a creek. Trail continues to skirt hillside with beautiful old growth red cedar and hemlock. Trail descends steeply for about 15 feet, continuing to generally descend back down to valley floor. The path becomes narrow and rocky with some brush encroaching and rather unstable footing. Step over a log and come to another boardwalk. Step down over roots onto another boardwalk. Off that boardwalk cross mud, step up onto another boardwalk as the trail gradually ascends slightly. Come to another boardwalk, ascend steeply on a narrow rocky trail for about 100 feet. Come to another incline with a 3 foot step up over roots, curve to the right then left with a small dry stream and take a two foot step down. The trail continues to roll and curve with steep drop of on left, following the hillside with wetland below. There are lots of flowers and grass, and unstable footing on rocks and tree roots in the trail. At approximately 3.1 miles, a vine maple curves over the trail, then a large old growth red cedar and a small footbridge with railings on both sides. The sky line is open to your left but you are still traveling in shaded forest with hillside up to right. Cross a small stream then climb steeply up a hill for about 60 feet, pass between trees over roots, take a two foot step up, then step down over roots. (I was pretty exhausted by this point, but its only another 0.4 miles before the trail gets easier again) The trail becomes wet, narrow, and brushy, and continues to roll with obstacles in trail. Take another step across roots and then step up over roots, entering deeper into a shaded forest with vine maples over trail. Come to a slight muddy hill and a small stream. Take several quick rolls before leveling out slightly. Travel a decline for about 50 feet to a muddy area as the trail narrows. Level out and come to several big red cedars; you are almost level with the wetlands. Take a boardwalk over a wet area with a down tree on left, step over a large root. Come to two log rounds placed into trail and cross another boardwalk to a slight incline. You are now moving away from wetland and back into the forest. Trail continues to roll then comes to many more slightly unsteady log rounds in trail with roots in between. Pass between a few large Sitka Spruce; the forest is once again a mix of big leaf maple, alder, sitka spruce, and ferns. At 3.5 miles, cross a couple of muddy areas then reconnect with the river trail. Turn right and return the way you came in, this time ascending 115 feet in 0.25 miles. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: Interagency All Access Pass or Northwest Forest Pass Getting There: There are references to the road to the Bogachiel River Trail being closed, but this isn’t exactly true; the original road is closed, but there is a bypass on a gravel road. To access the trailhead, turn onto Undi Rd across from Bogachiel State Park, approximately 5 miles south of Forks. Continue on a two-lane paved road until you come to a barrier and a gravel road on the left. This gravel road is regularly maintained but can have deep potholes and washboarding, so prepare to travel slowly. There is one steep hill with a beautiful view out to the mountains. The road begins to narrow with some pullouts, then narrows to a steep, potholed single lane for about 0.5 mile to the trailhead. I travel it easily in a Prius, though very slowly while dodging potholes and maintaining traction. Nearby Alternatives: Elk Creek Conservation area in Forks has many features of a rainforest, received little traffic, and is rated as three spoons. Land Acknowledgement: The area along what is now known as the Bogachiel River is the traditional lands of the Quileute. The land was ceded in the Treaty of Olympia, while the Quileute maintain rights to their traditional hunting, fishing, and foraging lands. Trail Map Elevation profile, beginning at 466 feet, descending to low point at 315 feet. 3.8 mile distance, 210 feet elevation, 2:57:59 moving. Topographic map of the Bogachiel River Trail to Ira Spring Wetland Loop, with the trail marked in red.

  • Media and News | Disabled Hikers

    Disabled Hikers has been featured in a number of national and local publications. Read the latest news and view our brand assets and press release for features. Media and News As Featured In Latest News and Media How one disabled hiker is clearing a path for others [Syren] Nagakyrie spoke to USA TODAY about ongoing challenges with accessibility ahead of the book's release. Read the full article ‘I Wanted That Self-Reliance Back’: Disabled Hikers Forge a New Path Outdoor enthusiasts with disabilities are pushing to encounter nature on their own terms, with [a variety of creative approaches] Read the full article A New Adventure Guide for People with Disabilities The founder of the organization Disabled Hikers is making the outdoor industry more accessible Read the full article How the Founder of Disabled Hikers Is Advocating for Accessibility in the Outdoors Nature continued to be a source of connection, comfort, and belonging, and I was determined to learn ways to be outdoors that worked for my body. Read the full article Subscribe to Our Newsletter Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for submitting!

  • Rock Shelter and Newhalem Creek | Disabled Hikers

    Rock Shelter and Newhalem Creek The Rundown Spoon Rating: 2 Distance: 0.5 mile to the Rock Shelter, 1.0 mile to Newhalem Creek overlook, out and back Elevation Change: 125 ft. Typical Surface: Compacted gravel, boardwalk Typical Width: 4 ft Nearest Town: Hoodsport, WA. Cell Phone Reception: Unknown Amenities: Benches, Accessible restrooms and water at campground or visitor center The Hike The trees in this area are marked with burn scars from a wildfire, and the forest is alive with new green growth. The trail begins level on slightly loose compact gravel. A sign on the right provides information about the site. Continue straight past the sign and take a series of 5-8% inclines with level areas every 20-30 feet. The trail curves left and continues at three feet wide and slightly brushy along the edges. You are rising up the hill, and there is a slight drop off on the left but it’s blocked by large logs. Continue on 5-8% inclines with level areas. The section of trail with a slight drop off. Note the slightly loose gravel and grade. The trail passes to the left of and slightly underneath a large boulder – you may need to duck a little if you are tall. Continue on a steady incline of 8-10% for approximately 50 feet, then the trail switchbacks right. There is a low bench on the left. Continue on a 3-5% incline. At 0.2 mile you come to a fork. On the left, a footpath leads to a peaceful overlook of Newhalem Creek, detailed below. Go right on the gravel trail to the rock shelter. The trail continues generally level through old cedar and fir trees with burn scars, then comes to an 8% incline for about 10 feet. It levels out again and curves left with incredible views of the surrounding mountains. At 0.3 mile you reach a wooden boardwalk above Newhalem Creek. A sign on the left reminds you that this is a protected site and entering the rock shelter is prohibited. There is a 0.5 inch rise onto the deck, which has level, even boards and is supported by rustic log poles. The boardwalk continues for about 100 feet and ends at a circular overlook. The rock shelter is on the left. Interpretive signs invite you to picture the scene from hundreds of years ago. The signs include quotes from Upper Skagit Tribal members and information about the spiritual significance of this area. The viewing deck. Newhalem Creek cascades below. The footpath to Newhalem Creek. Where the trail passes a large boulder. Note the drop off and the grade. “The Upper Skagit Tribe plays an integral role in preserving these sites which hold physical and spiritual connections to their ancient heritage. Many Upper Skagits continue their traditions as fishers, hunters and gatherers. They keep their culture alive through the teachings and counsel of Tribal Elders whose wisdom has passed to the spirits of the ancestors who walk this ground around you.” [quoted from an interpretive sign]. Enjoy the experience of this incredible place, but please be mindful. To reach the contemplative spot along Newhalem Creek falls, backtrack and go right on the footpath that was mentioned previously. The trail is about two feet wide and natural surface with a few small rocks and roots. You are surrounded by new growth and burn-scarred trees. Rise and fall on 5% grades a few times, then curve sharply right as you approach the creek. The trail descends and curves left, then continues to descend on 10-20% grades for about 20 feet. It levels out and gets a little rocky, then rolls a few times as you reach the cliff above the creek with incredible views of a waterfall. You can pick your way along a rough trail, but it is rocky and steep in sections, and there’s a sharp drop off. This is a great place to rest and contemplate this beautiful place for a while before turning around and heading back to the trailhead. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: None Getting There: From the North Cascades National Park visitor center in Newhalem, drive through Newhalem Campground Loop C. Continue straight for about 0.3 mile on the gravel service road. Cross the bridge and then there’s a couple of pull outs on the left. The trail begins at a sign on the right. Nearby Alternatives: Coming Soon Land Acknowledgement: This is the homeland of the Upper Skagit people, who still maintain a life of sustenance and relationship with this land. This area was once called Duwaylib, which means goat snare. This site, rich in healing spirit, is offered by the Upper Skagit people and the National Park Service as a place for your visit and your trust. (from interpretive signage along the trail)

  • Webster's Woods Port Angeles Fine Arts | Disabled Hikers

    An accessible trail guide for the Websters Woods Sculpture Park at the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center for people with disabilities. Webster's Woods at the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center The Rundown Spoon Rating: Distance: 2 spoons, partially wheelchair hikeable 0.4 mile loop Elevation Change: 25 ft. Typical Surface: loose gravel on packed dirt Typical Width: Nearest Town: 4 ft Port Angeles, WA Cell Phone Reception: Good Amenities: accessible restrooms (during open hours) accessible parking, picnic tables Max Grade: 12% *on the recommended route. For reference, an ADA ramp is 2-5% Why go? Webster's Woods features public art throughout a 5 acre forested park near downtown Port Angeles. Over 100 sculptures, poetry , and more create a unique experience. Port Angeles Fine Arts Center hosts multiple festivals in the Woods throughout the year, including the popular Light Art Experience with lighted sculptures over the winter holidays. There are several trails that wander through the woods; one loop is generally wheelchair accessible with some caution due to steep grades and loose gravel. During the winter lights, barriers on the trail prevent wheelchair access. The Hike The trails throughout the Woods generally have a single layer of loose, 3/4 inch gravel on top of a firm packed surface, with some soft or muddy spots and steep sections. Read on for more details, but note that w heelchair users may have difficulty. For the most wheelchair accessible starting point, I recommend parking at the Port Angeles Community Players theatre . This large paved lot has two designated accessible parking spots. The spots aren't wide enough to be fully ADA compliant, and neither of them have a van access aisle, but the parking spot on the right is usable with an open area next to it. Check the schedule for performance times to make sure parking is available. If you do not need wheelchair accessibility, you can park at the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center lot or along Lauridsen Blvd. Image Description: Two parking spots with ADA signs in front of the Port Angeles Community Playhouse. From the Community Playhouse, head to the northwest corner of the parking lot, by the overflow parking. Follow the gravel path leading into the woods. The trail starts flat and 4 feet wide with some loose gravel. You immediately come to a metal sign pointing to the sculpture park. The trail then declines at 8% for about 30 feet, and you reach a T-intersection. The Arts Center parking lot is straight ahead -- that trail has a 10% grade for 50 feet. Go right into the Woods. After a few feet, you come to a 8-10% incline for 15 feet, then the trail levels out briefly. Pass next to some large western redcedar and big leaf maple, then take a slight decline. You'll cross a section with boulders on the right side that protect a drop off, with the sculpture "Pillow Stones" below. The trail is 5-6 feet wide here. Continue on a slightly rolling incline with logs bordering both sides of the trail. At about 0.1 mile you reach the meadow. At the time of this writing, there are three wooden benches on the left. The trail forks here - continue straight ahead on the main loop, circling the meadow. Two picnic tables sit out in the meadow; one can be reached by crossing bumpy grass on a slight hill, the other is down a steep hill. You immediately come to 10-12% incline for 15 feet, passing between large Douglas firs. A dirt footpath on the left cuts across the woods; continue straight on the wide gravel trail. There are more boulders on the right, protecting a drop-off as you curve right above the meadow on an 8-10% incline. During the winter lights exhibit, there is a large rubber protection bump across electrical cords on the other side of the meadow as the trail inclines. This "speed bump" style protector is too high and steep for most wheel-users. It is approximately 5 inches high and 8 inches wide, with a 1 inch threshold and a very steep slope on either side. People using walkers or rollators would need to actively lift their mobility aid over the bump, most wheelchair users would not be able to cross it, and people walking will need to take care not to trip, especially in the dark. Continuing on the wide gravel trail, take a 2-5% incline for a few feet and pass a very large big leaf maple. You then take a 10-12% incline with a 2% cross-slope for about 30 feet. Come to another rubber bumper guard for an extension cord. This one has a 1/2 inch threshold and is about 4 inches high with a less steep slope, but would still be difficult for most wheel-users, and may not be secure. Image Description: Section of gravel trail with rocks and then logs protecting a drop-off and "Pillow Stones" on the right. Image Description: Wide gravel trail as it inclines above the meadow, with boulders protecting the drop off. Image Description: The second rubber bump protector over electrical cords, with the meadow below. Continue on a 5% incline for a few feet, and then reach a fork in the trail. The gravel trail on the left travels beneath a stainless steel sculpture of the Pi symbol, and then narrows to less than 32 inches and takes several rolling grades before coming out to the other side of the loop at a sculpture called "A Seat in the Trees." Go straight ahead at the fork. The trail continues generally flat and 4 feet wide with some loose gravel. You then curve left and get a beautiful view across downtown Port Angeles and Ediz Hook to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The trail takes some slight rolling grades as you continue overlooking the water. At 0.2 mile, the trail curves left again and there a drop-off on the right protected by large boulders. The trail is 6-8 feet wide here, then narrows back to 4-5 feet wide. You'll pass another trail fork on the right, where the trail that went beneath the Pi sculpture comes back out. The trail then takes some long, steep grades. Take a 10-12% incline for 30 feet, pass between a big leaf maple on the left and a Douglas fir on the right, then decline at 10% for about 20 feet, and take another 10-12% incline for about 30 feet, decreasing to 10% for less than 100 feet as you approach the gallery. As you leave the forest and pass along the wide of the gallery building, there is a wooden bench on the left if you want to take a break . From here, you can either follow the sidewalk around the building and visit the gallery, or continue straight ahead on the gravel trail to finish the hike. The gravel trail takes a slightly rolling 10-12% decline for about 25 feet and then connects with the road that goes up to the gallery. Follow the road down for less than 100 feet, watching out for one cracked, raised section from a root in the surface. Go left and continue through the arts center parking lot to the gravel trail on the other side. Take a 10% decline for 50 feet, then continue straight past the initial intersection into the woods to return to the parking lot at the playhouse. Image description: A wide gravel trail curves along a hillside. Downtown Port Angeles and the Strait are in the background. Image description: A gravel trail continues level through the woods. Another trail forks on the left to a sculpture. Image description: The Arts center parking lot with the gravel trail into the woods straight ahead. A metal sign on the left gives info about the woods and gallery. Image description: The "accessible" parking spot at the gallery entrance. It does not meet ADA guidelines, but provides direct access to the gallery. The Gallery There is one designated accessible parking spot at the gallery, but it does not meet ADA guidelines. There is a van access aisle, the surface is rough and cracked, and there is a shed and planters that may make access difficult. People frequently park there to un/load, so it may not be available. But it is the only direct access to the gallery. Follow a sidewalk around the courtyard to the gallery door. The door has a lever handle on it, but is unlocked during open hours so that you only have to pull on the door, which is light. Navigating a wheelchair through the entrance may be difficult. Inside the gallery, go right down a hall to reach two single user restrooms. Both have grab bars and generally meet ADA guidelines, though the one at the end of the hall is the largest. To reach the art exhibits, go right from the front door and then left through a 42 inch wide entryway. There are two midsize rooms with exhibits, and generally at least 36 inches of clearance to navigate the space. Note that the direct route from the gallery to the trails is very steep at 14-16%, so I recommend following the sidewalk around the outer edge of the building to the gravel trail described above if you are on foot and can't do steep grades. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: None. Entrance to the gallery is on a pay-what-you-will basis. Getting There: For the Community Playhouse, use 1235 E. Lauridsen Blvd., Port Angeles. Head south on Race St from Front St, and turn left on Lauridsen Blvd. Continue past the elementary school, and turn left before Liberty St. Clallam Transit Route 20 stops on Lauridsen across from the arts center and playhouse. Open Hours: The Woods are open 7 days a week from dawn to dusk, except during the Light Arts Experience when it is open to 8pm. The Gallery is open Thursday - Sunday, 11am to 5pm. Most Recent Visit: November 2025 Trail Map Click the image to access a PDF.

  • Hoh Forest Riverwalk | Disabled Hikers

    There is a new trail in the Hoh Rainforest. The Hoh Rainforest River Walk is located across from the Hard Rain Cafe. Parking is available at the cafe or at the Nikolai shipwreck memorial just past the cafe. The trailhead begins at the road; there is a porta potty and maps available, and the trail system is well marked. Hoh Rainforst Riverwalk The Rundown Spoon Rating: 2 Distance: 2 miles Elevation Change: 40 ft. Typical Surface: soft silt Typical Width: 4 ft Nearest Town: Forks, WA. Cell Phone Reception: Spotty Amenities: coming soon Why go? There is a new trail in the Hoh Rainforest. The Hoh Rainforest River Walk is located across from the Hard Rain Cafe. Parking is available at the cafe or at the Nikolai shipwreck memorial just past the cafe. The trailhead begins at the road; there is a porta potty and maps available, and the trail system is well marked. The Hike Paper map of the hoh river trail. The entire trail is 2 miles if you take the Frog Bog trail to the river, walk along the gravel bar, and return on the Big Spruce Trail. When you enter the clearing where the trail forks, take the right trail – there is a small sign that says Frog Bog trail. Keep right when it meets back up with the other trails, you will come to a couple of steps cut into the earth, and a small bridge over a creek. Continue through the forest until you come to another small bridge over a creek; keep right after crossing and follow the red and black blazes to the river. You’ll come out on a gravel bar. Take in the view of Mount Olympus if it is clear, enjoy the blue waters of the Hoh, and then continue left along the gravel bar. If you can’t go back out on the bar, you can still get a nice view of the river and then turn back. The trail picks up again towards the end of the bar, and goes up a slight incline – look again for the red and black blazes. The trail loops back to the bridge, just be sure to follow the blazes. When you cross the second bridge you’ll come to another clearing with a fork in the trail – it can be a bit confusing here, but there are signs. Follow the Big Spruce trail, marked by a yellow diamond with a spruce tree. Continue through a forest of old Sitka Spruce, and you’ll come back out at the first clearing and the trailhead. The tread is soft silt; there are many places of standing water and mud but they are fairly easily bypassed – only one required balancing on some sticks to cross. There is no elevation change but there are some unlevel areas in the trail and a couple of bridges. Pick up one of the many walking sticks at the trailhead. You can take a >1 mile loop through the forest, which avoids the bridges and most of the trouble spots, but you won’t see the river. Make the loop by taking the frog bog trail, go towards the left when you get to the other trail, and follow the yellow diamonds for the Big Spruce trail. I met the fellow who built this lovely trail on my way in today. It is so nice to have another dog friendly trail in the area, and another access point for the river. Next time I’m bringing a picnic. Rated 2 spoons difficulty but be aware of rain and river levels; the trail could get considerably wetter. Image Description: A tree is marked with a yellow diamond. The trail is lined with ferns and trees. A dog waits impatiently again. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Getting There: Coming Soon Nearby Alternatives: Marymere Falls Trail Land Acknowledgement: Ancestral lands of the Hoh tribe

  • Storytelling Project | Disabled Hikers

    If you are a disabled hiker, we'd like to hear from you. Share your story with us and help us challenge the narrative around who can enjoy the outdoors. Storytelling Project Share Your Story Share Your Story Have a story to share related to disability, chronic illness, hiking, nature, or the outdoors? We want to hear from you. Apply Support the Project We have exhausted our funding for this project! Help us continue providing a platform for impactful stories by making a donation today! Donate Read the Stories of Disabled Hikers Belonging is Everywhere | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Amber shares their experiences of finding belonging in nature and being criminalized for camping. Amber Katzira Sep 11, 2025 5 min read Disability Representation and Outdoor Access in the Bay Area with Judy Smith | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Syren Nagakyrie interviews Judy Smith about the past, present, and future of outdoor accessibility and disability representation in the Bay Area. Syren Nagakyrie Aug 19, 2025 12 min read From Peak to Pause: A Chronic Illness Journey | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project From vibrant health to chronic illness. One woman's fight for accessible nature amidst EDS, POTS, & more. Ari R. Jul 30, 2024 5 min read Enjoying the Silence: How the Outdoors Help Me Cope with Noise Pollution | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project For neurodivergent urban dwellers, the remote wilderness provides much-needed relief from noise pollution in large cities. Desiree Lopez Jun 19, 2024 7 min read Landscape through a Lens of Disability | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Sarah Capdeville explores what it means to be disabled in a disabled landscape. Is there a right way to be wild or a right kind of body? Sarah Capdeville May 28, 2024 6 min read Finding Solace in Nature: Navigating Anxiety, ADHD, and Grief Through Hiking and Art | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Navigating anxiety, ADHD, and grief through nature. Explore the healing power of hiking and art in this personal journey of solace and home. Meg Max Apr 25, 2024 4 min read Black Swan, Preserved | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Chrys Lyn Furrer shares their experience of considering disability in the landscape and how our bodies and the land changes. Chyrs Lyn Furrer Oct 20, 2023 4 min read Losing My Ability | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Shelagh shares her experiences of losing her ability, medical fatphobia, and active living as a fat Black woman. Shelagh Brown May 11, 2023 7 min read Building an Equitable Existence to Thrive: I Can. I Must. I Will. written by Crystal Gail Welcome As an advocate for a better planet led by love and compassion, we can equip ourselves with a powerful... Crystal Gail Welcome Nov 21, 2022 4 min read Join our newsletter to receive updates about the project Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for joining!

  • Events | Disabled Hikers

    Events Donate Now Upcoming Events & Group Hikes Our group hikes are for people who are disabled, chronically ill, neurodivergent, or otherwise have personal lived experience of disability and your friends, family, and caregivers. It is not a space for non-disabled people to learn. If you are not disabled and are interested in how to create access and inclusion in the outdoors, please contact us to set up a separate meeting. Upcoming Events No events at the moment Disabled Hikers Group Hike: Reinhardt Redwoods Regional Park, September 2026 Sat, Sep 19 Share Details Disabled Hikers Gathering: Lower Macleay Park, Portland (July) Sat, Jul 18 Share Details Disabled Hikers Gathering: Lower Macleay Park, Portland (June) Sat, Jun 27 Share Details Author Talk: Contra Costa County Library Thu, Apr 02 Share Details Disabled Hikers Group Hike: Powell Butte Sat, Mar 21 Share Details Load More Past Events Frequently asked questions Who can attend the group hikes? Our group hikes are open to the disability community only. This includes people who have any type of disability or chronic illness, are neurodivergent, deaf, blind, or otherwise face access barriers to the outdoors due to lived experience of disability. We define these terms in the broadest way possible – if you are asking yourself if that includes you, then it does! Feel free to contact us if you aren’t sure. Family members, friends, and caregivers are also welcome to join you. We occasionally offer group hikes open to all or collaborate with other organizations to bring together the wider community. We note these group hikes in the title and descriptions Who can’t attend group hikes? Unless otherwise noted, we do not allow non-disabled people to attend the group hikes (unless they are accompanying a disabled friend or family member). We typically do not allow journalists, researchers, photographers, etc. to attend the hikes. Exceptions are occasionally made but must be arranged far in advance so that we can get consent from all group members. Our group hikes are not a space for non-disabled people to learn about disability and accessibility in the outdoors. If you would like to learn more about disability access in the outdoors, contact us for information about consultations and field experiences. Why do you only allow disability community to attend group hikes? Disabled Hikers is an entirely Disabled-led organization. Our events are affinity spaces. They are an opportunity for disabled people to meet and build community in a safe(r) space, without worrying about non-disabled people taking control or dominating the experience. While we recognize the importance of community inclusion, we also know that there are very few opportunities for people with disabilities to come together in spaces that we define. The goal for our events is to break through the isolation so many of us experience and build community by us, for us. Why do you require masks? We require high quality face masks (KN-95 or better) at all of our events to keep each other safe. There are many immunocompromised and otherwise high risk people in our community. But even if you are not immunocompromised, respiratory illnesses can have long-lasting effects on health and well being. You can read more about our mask policy here. Will you accommodate my disability at a group hike? The short answer is – yes! Our events are access-centered and collaborative, and we will work with you to make it as accessible as possible. We design the group hikes to be as accessible as possible to as many people as possible, but we acknowledge that barriers in the outdoor environment may still prevent access. We ask for your access needs/accommodations at registration and will get in touch for more information as needed. Some examples of what we may be able to provide include: translators and interpreters, assistance with walking, transportation/carpools, collapsible camp chairs, hiking gear. We do not currently own adaptive equipment like all terrain wheelchairs but may be able to work with other organizations to provide access to one. Do you have any other rules or guidelines for the group hikes? We have a few just to ensure a safe and welcoming environment. They include: 1. Do not offer anyone advice or assistance without asking first 2. Hike as a group and do not leave anyone behind 3. Please ask for what you need when you need it 4. We do not tolerate hate of any kind 5. If someone or something makes you uncomfortable, please talk to the hike leader Where do you lead group hikes? Our home region is the west coast, including Washington, Oregon, and northern California. We occasionally lead group hikes in other areas as funding and travel allows. We are working towards building our capacity for group hikes in other areas. If you would like to help fund more group hikes, you can support our work by making a donation. How do you make the group hikes a safe(r), inclusive experience? We are an entirely Disabled-led organization, with a multiply marginalized majority. As an organization rooted in disability justice, we are explicitly anti-racist and queer affirming. We are a cross-disability and access-centered organization. We recognize the power of cross-movement solidarity and work to dismantle ableism, settler-colonialism, racism, and all other forms of oppression in the outdoors. Our focus is on building power within the disability community and creating a Disabled-led movement in the outdoors. Can you lead a group hike in my area? We love leading group hikes in other areas! However, they require a significant commitment of time and resources, and we are a small organization. The best way to help us come to your area is to host a fundraiser and help us organize the event. Get in touch if you’d like to discuss! Can I bring my dog to the group hike? Service dogs are always welcome. Service animals are trained to perform one or more tasks in support of a person's disability. Pets are strongly discouraged, even on pet friendly trails, to reduce the likelihood of accessibility conflicts or issues between service dogs and pets. We ask if you are bringing a service dog at registration only for planning purposes, and to let attendees know who may have an accessibility conflict (allergies, fear, etc.). If you absolutely must bring a pet with you, please contact us or leave a note in the registration box and we will follow up. I absolutely loved getting to hang out with other disabled people in nature. We were able to talk about lives, no holds barred, and everything felt accepted and normal. No pretending for the comfort of others, we could just be ourselves. Christine, Portland, OR

  • Deschutes Falls Park Guide | Disabled Hikers

    The 155-acre park re-opened to the public in September 2017 and offers up close, breathtaking views of the Deschutes River as it flows, cascades, and falls through the canyon created by the river’s powerful force. The tallest waterfall is 27 feet, plunging into a 70-foot gorge. There are many small waterfalls along the river with perfect viewing and sunbathing spots on the rocks. Dogs are allowed on-leash. Deschutes Falls Park is within the territories of the Puget Sound Salish and Yakama people Deschutes Falls The Rundown Spoon Rating: 4 Distance: 0.25 miles Elevation Change: varies Typical Surface: Natural; past the first lookout it is steep, muddy, and unevel Typical Width: 4 ft Nearest Town: Olympia, WA. Cell Phone Reception: None. You will lose signal a few miles before you reach the park. Amenities: There is a caretaker onsite full time. Why go? Deschutes Falls Park is a gem of the area with a long history for the indigenous people and local community. The 155-acre park re-opened to the public in September 2017 and offers up close, breathtaking views of the Deschutes River as it flows, cascades, and falls through the canyon created by the river’s powerful force. The tallest waterfall is 27 feet, plunging into a 70-foot gorge. There are many small waterfalls along the river with perfect viewing and sunbathing spots on the rocks. Dogs are allowed on-leash. Deschutes Falls Park is within the territories of the Puget Sound Salish and Yakama people. The Hike From the large gravel parking area, head down the wide gravel path. The first 50 feet of the descent is slightly steep, and then it becomes more level. There are a couple of benches along the way. The trail is accessible for a sturdy wheelchair, but the gravel is not compacted yet. You’ll start the .25 mile hike in a beautiful prairie and then move into the forest. Here you will come to a clearing with three forked paths and a bench. If you do not feel comfortable going further, this is a nice place to sit and listen to the river. The right fork will take you to a steep, mulched then muddy path to the viewpoint below Deschutes Falls. This may be the easiest viewpoint of the big falls to access. There is four-foot fencing along the river and I used it to help me get down the path. There is less mud here than the other viewing area, and in the summer it may dry out. Still, when I visited following a relatively dry week, I had to step along the very edge of the fence and across some branches laid in mud that reached the top of my soles. The rectangular photo captures the scene at an angle. Aqua blue water flows between a moss covered rock wall on one side and rounded rocks on the other. There is a small waterfall in the background. The middle fork brings you to a viewpoint overlooking the top of the big falls, below a smaller fall that tumbles behind a tree reaching across the canyon. You will walk down a mulched path to a small, level bridge that crosses the creek that is the main source of so much mud. The creek seems to be seasonal, but I am not convinced that it will dry up in the summer enough to allow all of the mud to dry out. Combined with the many feet that walk through here, I would anticipate the area to be muddy and slick throughout the year. Since the park is new, I am hoping the county will do some additional work to mitigate the problem and make it more accessible. You can safely check out the mud situation from the bridge to decide whether to go on. To reach the main viewpoint, head to the right down a steep, muddy slope and across slick rocks where the creek flows through. At my visit, the mud at the viewpoint was as deep as the top of my soles, to over my feet in some places. I almost did not manage to make it down to the viewpoint even though I was feeling pretty good that day. Using my hiking poles, I managed to get sturdy enough footing. While the view was indeed stunning, I’m not sure I would risk it again without help. The fork to the left from the clearing will take you to a level trail through the forest to additional viewing areas along the river. From this trail, the first path on the right will take you the other side of the middle viewpoint. The slightly steep mulched trail bypasses the bridge and the worst of the mud. It is an easier route down to the river and top of the cascading falls. There will be a short, steep footpath that you can take down to the river, but it is possible to get a partial view of the falls from here. A muddy trail descends a slope to a fenced in viewpoint. The canyon wall is in the background, covered in green ferns and moss. A muddy trail to an overlook with fencing. Continuing along the main trail, you will pass through second growth forest of Western Redcedar and Douglas Fir and end up back at the river. To reach the viewpoints you have to walk down one of a couple of steep slopes. It was muddy when I visited but it looks like this area could dry out. Walk out onto the rocks that form the river gorge ; they were dry and smooth but watch your footing because there is no fencing in this section. Here are some perfect spots to sit by the river and watch the beautiful aqua waters flow by, green moss and trees contrasting the rock of the canyon. There are some nice swimming holes if you are able to do that, but please be cautious as the falls are just a few hundred yards down river. In the summer the huge Big Leaf Maples will provide some shade, as will the towering cliff rising from the opposite side of the river. There is a lovely view of the surrounding hills. The park basically ends here, so once you’re ready just head back the way you came. A mulched path forks in a clearing beneath trees. There is a bench, and a caution sign that reads “safety is your responsibility. the natural terrain of this area can be dangerous. Obey all signs and remain in designated areas. A moss lined canyon frames a cascading waterfall. An old tree stretches across the canyon, only the stump and roots remain. Finding the Trailhead Pass/Entry Fee: N/A Getting There: Google Maps directions were surprisingly good; from Olympia, it is approximately one hour. Most of the trip will be on paved two lane county roads with some gentle curves. There are some incredible views of Tahoma/Mount Rainier. Once you get to Bald Hill Road, it is 15 miles to the park. A couple of miles before you reach the park you will enter timber land. The road will become narrower and curvier, and you will reach a fork with a sign that points you to the park and a dead end sign. This is a bit confusing – do not turn right, just keep heading straight towards the dead end. You’ll reach the parking area on the right in about a mile. Nearby Alternatives: I recommend stopping at the Monarch Sculpture Park near Tenino on this trip. Read my guide about the park here . Land Acknowledgement: Deschutes Falls Park is within the territories of the Puget Sound Salish and Yakama people

  • Member Page | Disabled Hikers

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  • Blog | Disabled Hikers

    Disabled Hikers Blog All Posts Hiking Resources Accessibility Community Voices Syren Nagakyrie 2 hours ago 2 min Hiking Resources The Disabled Hiker's Guide to Northern California The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Northern California provides detailed accessibility information for scenic drives and accessible trails. Syren Nagakyrie Mar 18, 2020 2 min Hiking Resources The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Western WA and OR The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Western Washington and Oregon: Outdoor Adventures Accessible by Car, Wheelchair, and Foot, published by... A.M. Rossi Jul 30 5 min Community Voices From Peak to Pause: A Chronic Illness Journey | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project From vibrant health to chronic illness. One woman's fight for accessible nature amidst EDS, POTS, & more. Desiree Lopez Jun 19 7 min Community Voices Enjoying the Silence: How the Outdoors Help Me Cope with Noise Pollution | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project For neurodivergent urban dwellers, the remote wilderness provides much-needed relief from noise pollution in large cities. Sarah Capdeville May 28 6 min Community Voices Landscape through a Lens of Disability | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Sarah Capdeville explores what it means to be disabled in a disabled landscape. Is there a right way to be wild or a right kind of body? Meg Max Apr 25 4 min Community Voices Finding Solace in Nature: Navigating Anxiety, ADHD, and Grief Through Hiking and Art | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Navigating anxiety, ADHD, and grief through nature. Explore the healing power of hiking and art in this personal journey of solace and home. Syren Nagakyrie Jan 6 13 min Community Voices A Crip Struggle for Ecojustice | Naomi Ortiz and Syren Nagakyrie in Discussion Naomi Ortiz and Syren Nagakyrie discuss Naomi's books, self care, relationship with place, and climate change. Chyrs Lyn Furrer Oct 20, 2023 4 min Community Voices Black Swan, Preserved | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Chrys Lyn Furrer shares their experience of considering disability in the landscape and how our bodies and the land changes. Syren Nagakyrie Sep 5, 2023 1 min Hiking Resources A Disabled Hiker's Guide to the San Juan Islands This free guide for disabled hikers covers 25 trails across the San Juan Islands. Shelagh Brown May 11, 2023 7 min Community Voices Losing My Ability | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project Shelagh shares her experiences of losing her ability, medical fatphobia, and active living as a fat Black woman. Syren Nagakyrie Mar 30, 2023 1 min Hiking Resources A Disabled Hiker's Guide to the Redwoods This free PDF guide provides accessibility overviews for eleven redwood parks and four giant sequoia parks in California. Syren Nagakyrie... Syren Nagakyrie Mar 12, 2023 7 min Hiking Resources Accessible Outdoors Near Boise: Three Trip Ideas for Disabled Travelers | Disabled HIkers Storytelling Project I partnered with Visit Idaho to create several accessible hiking guides for the Boise area. I had a wonderful trip to the region, and was... Syren Nagakyrie Jan 18, 2023 3 min Accessibility How to Find Accessible Trail Information Useful tips for finding information about trail accessibility. Crystal Gail Welcome Nov 21, 2022 4 min Community Voices Building an Equitable Existence to Thrive: I Can. I Must. I Will. written by Crystal Gail Welcome As an advocate for a better planet led by love and compassion, we can equip ourselves with a powerful... Ionah Scully, Cree-Métis and Irish—Michel First Nation Jun 9, 2022 7 min Community Voices Never Alone: Hiking the Adirondack High Peaks as an Indigenous Two Spirit | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project written by Ionah Scully, Cree-Métis and Irish—Michel First Nation Content Note: contains mentions of sexual assault, domestic violence,... Syren Nagakyrie Apr 28, 2022 3 min Accessibility Eco-Crip Theory: A Compilation of Resources Resources about eco-crip theory and other ecological and place-based resources that center Disabled experiences. Syren Nagakyrie Jan 18, 2022 6 min Hiking Resources Trail Surface Types: Pros and Cons for Accessibility Please do not share, reproduce, or cite without the above credit and a link back to this website. If you find this resource useful,... Syren Nagakyrie Aug 20, 2020 4 min Accessibility Social Media Tips for the Social Justice Creator Many content creators feel pressure to constantly produce new content. This pressure is artificially enforced by the nature of social... Aprili Jul 15, 2020 3 min Community Voices Bust down Tumblina: Humoring my Climbs and Tumbles thru humble Tanzania | Disabled Hikers Storytelling Project written by Aprili Content Notes: climbing, physical injury, neurodivergence, psychological disability, brief reference to drinking At 21,... Syren Nagakyrie Jul 6, 2020 7 min Accessibility How to Make Your Outdoor Content Accessible for People with Disabilities [Featured image description: Text on a photo. Centered text in strong font: Create Accessible Outdoor Content. Text below in a light blue...

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