New Grand Canyon Guide for Handicapped Travelers

Even though the Grand Canyon National Park was developed before passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, visitors with handicaps can still enjoy many of the trails, sights, and Grand Canyon tours this natural wonder offers.

In her book “Barrier-Free Travel: The Grand Canyon for Wheelers and Slow walkers,” travel writer Candy Harrington emphasizes accessible trails (including the famous Bright Angel Trail), sites and lodging choices on both rims of the canyon; includes access details about the Grand Canyon Railway; and offers hard-to-find access information about Grand Canyon West.

Although that book is geared towards travelers with disabilities, parents with stroller-bound kids may also appreciate the information on easy-to-maneuver walking paths and stair-free entrances.

The writer does a fantastic job describing and photographing accessible rooms at various park hotels. Ms. Harrington points out the the Kachina Lodge is the only property in the park with an elevator.

The guide also provides directions to accessible walkways and restrooms at several popular park overlooks, as well as a list of narrated bus tours equipped for wheelchairs.

The author shares information about the little-known 19.5 -mile driving route to the bottom of the canyon, which is perfect for those who want to reach the bottom of the Grand Canyon but can’t navigate the trail down to Phantom Ranch from the South Rim. This route can be reached by traveling through land owned by the Hualapai Tribe.

For those interested, the Hualapai Lodge offers a package deal which includes overnight lodging, a picnic lunch, and a driving permit.