Yosemite National Park is a place of beauty, history, and outdoor physical activity. The preservation of this world renowned park is due to John Muir and President Roosevelt. On a hike here in Yosemite John Muir convinced President Roosevelt to protect Yosemite's natural exquisiteness from ever being developed along with over 200 other areas in the United States. In 2009 it was estimated that 3.9 million people came to bask in one of nature's greatest geological creations, the most popular time being June-September.

Lower Yosemite Fall is very accessible for someone exploring in a wheelchair. The paved trail to the fall is about 0.5 miles and is flat most of the way. Near the final lookout point there is a slight incline at a 15 degree angle. The journey to Yosemite Fall is beautiful as one wanders past the stream created by the fall and trees. The path maneuvers one over rivers (below middle photo) and large boulders (below left photo). The best time to visit the fall is in the spring after the melted winter snow brings roaring life back into it. Before heading to the fall there is wheelchair accessible restroom to the right of the trail if needed.

The Wawona Tunnel Overlook is one of the best views accessible to the wheelchair traveler, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Valley. There is handicapped parking and a cemented lookout platform to capture a timeless photo and see from a birds eye view how the forces of natures created such a grand spectacle.

Bridaveil Fall has a paved walkway to the base of it. It is only flat for a small part of the way and then the pathway begins to incline. At first it is gradual (below left photo) but right before you are in front of Bridaveil Fall there is a steep turn (below middle photo). For those using a power chair or have exceptionally strong arms the walk is doable alone. For everyone else a push is likely to be needed as well as guidance back down the trail. Also when one gets close to the falls be prepared for a wet surface and wheels skidding, so take it real slow.

All over the valley floor of Yosemite are accessible walkways with amazing views of the natural landmarks. One can easily spend days exploring the trails showcasing the natural beauty of Yosemite. There are the occasional handicapped parking spots but it is likely not needed as the roads have parking all along side it, usually with lots of space to get in and out of the car. If one does not want to travel by car then there are other options to get around Yosemite, like the Shuttle Buses. The bus stops (above right photo) can be found all over the valley floor. Also the Valley Floor Trams offer a free tour and is accessible if arranged in advanced. Read more about getting around Yosemite on page 9 of the Accessibility Guide.

The Ahwahnee is a historic hotel that opened in 1928 and is located on the Yosemite Valley floor surrounded by Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and Glacier Point. This luxury hotel has housed a number of presidents, royalty, and celebrities since its opening. Even if you are not a guest of the hotel, a wheelchair traveler can enjoy dining at the Ahwahnee. On the ground floor there is a cafe for casual dining (above left photo) and around the corner is the main dining room for a more fine dining experience (above right photo). The Ahwahnee is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. For an accessible restroom, one must take the elevator up to the 2nd floor where there is one large enough for any chair. The Ahwahnee has 5 wheelchair accessible rooms with roll-in showers.

Other places to get food can be found at the Yosemite Village. The Village Store has a groceries and toiletries as well as a vast selection of souvenirs. Right next to the Village Store is a grill cafe. When vacationing in Yosemite there are a number of overnight options. There are a couple of campsites within Lower, Upper, and North Pines that are accessible, some include raised tent pads and all have accessible fire rings and picnic tables. Besides the Ahwahnee (as detailed above), other wheelchair friendly lodging suggestions are Curry Village and Yosemite Lodge (above middle photo). Both accommodations have roll-in showers and must be requested, so explain the importance to getting it. The Yosemite Lodge has 4 rooms with such access and Curry Village offers a couple of different setups. Read more about overnight wheelchair access on page 7 &8 of the Accessibility Guide.