The High Sierra is a special place. With towering peaks that seem to touch the sky. Roaring rivers filled with snowmelt and serene forests. It’s a place of unparalleled beauty and wonder. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience its magnificence. Thankfully, many of our communities are taking steps to make it more accessible for individuals with special needs to visit from wheelchair getaways to the very 1st certified autism destination.
Truckee Provides Trails For Everybody!
As part of the Sustainable Truckee initiative, Visit Truckee-Tahoe has embarked on an awareness campaign called Trails for EveryBODY™. While many hiking and biking trails may not be wheelchair or adaptive bike-friendly, this initiative has supported trail development of two cutting-edge dirt trails in Truckee designed to accommodate ALL users: the Compass Skills Loop and Ridgeline Nature Trail. These trails complement Truckee’s extensive network of paved trails, over 26 miles of scenic paths in the mountain town.
Mammoth Goes Giant On Access
Mammoth Lakes is internationally renowned for its thrilling skiing, heart-pounding mountain biking, and untouched wilderness. The community is committed to ensuring that this “Adventureland” is accessible to everyone, regardless of size, shape, or physical abilities. A good example of this is Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra. It’s a dedicated volunteer-driven non-profit organization, passionate about enabling children and adults with disabilities to enjoy adventures outside year-round. For additional information about this incredible organization and various ways to savor Mammoth Lakes, be sure to explore the Accessible Activities in Mammoth Lakes page.
Cast Away In Bishop
It’s been scientifically proven that fishing is therapeutic. It offers a way to escape distractions and live in the moment. The town of Bishop recognizes the importance of making outdoor adventures, including fishing, accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. Many of the lakes and rivers have specially designed piers ensuring that wheelchair users can enjoy these beautiful locations. This is true in places such as the Millpond Recreation Area and Convict Lake. For a comprehensive list of wheelchair-accessible places and activities in the Eastern Sierra, check out “Wheelchair accessible places to go and things to do in the Eastern Sierra.”
First Certified Autism Destination
While experiencing new things during travel is one of life’s sweet pleasures, it can be challenging for both children and adults with autism. Recognizing this, Visalia in the Southern Sierra has taken a pioneering step by becoming the first certified Autism Destination. As part of California’s Autism-friendly road trip, Visalia has collaborated with local partners to craft an itinerary through their Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. This inclusive journey offers a range of adventures, whether it’s a serene hike among Giant Sequoias or a fun day at Sequoia Springs in Visalia Adventure Park. For valuable tips to plan your next vacation, be sure to visit their Social Stories Page.
Author: Alex Silgalis
Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
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