Using a Wheelchair in Zion’s National Park

One of my biggest concerns while planning our trip to Zion’s National Park was the shuttle. Because there is so much traffic in the park Zion’s provides a shuttle service for all travelers going to the popular hiking areas.

I thought I would need to park Sam’s van at the visitor’s center or possibly outside the gate if that parking lot was full.

The plan was to put Sam into the Motus and wait for the shuttle. Take Sam out of the Motus, our Viking friend Dave would grab Sam’s seat cushion from the Motus and set it in the bus, then Sam would sit him next to Dave who would keep him from falling over.

I would fold and load the Motus into the crowded shuttle.

Dave suggested we ask the ranger at the gate if it was possible to drive to the trailhead. We found out all we needed to do was stop by the information desk at the visitor’s center and explain the situation.

After paying at the gate we headed to the visitors center and told the ranger our situation. He took down our information, wrote the code to the gate on a piece of paper, and sent us on our way.

Sam’s adventure van was the only private vehicle in The Temple of Sinawava parking area.

Hiking The Narrows in an All-Terrain Wheelchair

We knew that hiking The Narrows in Zion’s National Park was possible with the Extreme Motus all-terrain wheelchair because of pictures sent in by our customers.

Now, let’s talk about these trails.

The Riverside Walk, often called the “Gateway to the Narrows,” is a paved trail that’s not only wheelchair accessible but also offers breathtaking views of the Virgin River and the towering canyon walls.

Picture this:

You’re weaving through a canyon, the sound of flowing water by your side, and nature’s grandeur all around – everything you can access with your feet or wheeled chair.

The water level in the Narrows can change depending on the weather and time of year you are hiking, which can add to the challenge of this wheelchair-accessible trail.

In this picture, the water looks very blue and clear.

When we were hiking the water was brown because of sediment being washed down the canyon by higher waters.

I actually preferred the areas of the river with higher waters. The large Wheeleez tires would begin to bob along over the rocks rather than bounce over everything.

It was easier to push and more comfortable for Sam.

Hiking in a slot canyon like the Narrows always has an element of danger.

Flash floods from rain storms many miles away can hit the slot canyon while you’re hiking on what looks like a sunny day.

All adventures have an element of danger and we try our best to explore safely. Many of the commenters on this video disagree.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/189719704100389

I am happy to admit that my perception of danger is different than the next guys.

But I was confused by comments like, “Where are your life jackets!?”

While we were walking in water slightly deeper than our ankles.

The Floating All-Terrain Wheelchair

The Extreme Motus all-terrain wheelchair does float but it’s also top-heavy and will flip over if you let go of it in deep water.

There was one section of the hike where the water was up to my chest, which made the wheelchair-friendly part of this trip a bit debatable.

This was the only section of the hike that made my spider sense tingle. If I slipped on a rock in the river Sam would flip over.

Before moving through this deep section, I asked a few other hikers if they could help. The Narrows is a very heavily trafficked trail and there was no shortage of willing helpers around.

I explained the situation and told them to steady the chair from the sides. Together we made it safely through.

People love to help Sam on these adventures and I always feel that helping makes their trip more memorable and it’s a great way to make friends.

One thing I noticed while editing the video was how many other travelers would stop and stare as we went by.

I was too busy enjoying the hike to notice this in the moment but it was fun to see so many people checking out our band of misfits in the background of the video.

On our next adventure, we need a flag that reads,

“It’s okay to ask about our all-terrain wheelchair.”

And, yes, we do highly recommend bringing in your wheelchairs best suited for these uneven surfaces. The outdoors welcome everyone, whether you’re on your feet or wheels!

Exploring Zion’s National Park

As you can see from our pictures and videos, we enjoyed our adventure at Zion National Park.

If you’ve got a craving for breathtaking landscapes, a love for going on a scenic drive, and a taste for adventure, too, let me tell you, Zion’s National Park in Utah is calling your name!

First off, let’s talk about those towering red cliffs in this national park. They aren’t just photogenic (though believe me, your Instagram is gonna love ’em); they carry stories from ages past.

Imagine walking through the accessible trail where ancient civilizations once roamed, all while soaking in views that look like Mother Nature’s masterpiece.

But it’s not just about the views from below. The park offers hikes like the iconic Angels Landing, where those who dare can climb up and feel on top of the world.

And if you’re more into serene strolls, the Emerald Pools will be right up your alley – shimmering waters set against a backdrop of lush vegetation and rugged rocks.

Zion’s National Park is also equipped with campgrounds such as the South Campground, Watchman Campground, and Lava Point Campground. South Campground is partially closed and would need reservations ahead of time, but Watchman Campground is open the whole year.

Still, it is advisable to make a reservation at least 6 months before your trip. As for Lava Point Campground, it is on the Kolob Terrace Road and is an estimated 1-hour drive from Zion Canyon. It’s closed during winter.

More details here.

Oh, and did I mention the Narrows? It’s where you wade through cool waters while being sandwiched between towering canyon walls. It’s a national park experience that feels straight out of an adventure novel!

Beyond hiking, Zion’s National Park symphony of sounds is something else. Listen to the rustling leaves, the chirping of birds, the gentle flow of the Virgin River, and if you’re lucky, the distant call of bighorn sheep.

There are also other interest points like the Zion Human History Museum and you can go on a Zion Canyon scenic drive.

So, if you’re up for a mix of thrill, relaxation, and some good old nature appreciation, pack those hiking boots, and let Zion’s National Park show you a slice of Earth’s magic. Trust me, it’s an adventure you won’t forget anytime soon!

In our case, we also packed Sam’s all-terrain wheelchair, which proves that Zion is indeed wheelchair accessible when you have the right piece of adaptive equipment. 

More about Zion’s National Park

Even those who just want to pass by can enjoy themselves. There is a scenic byway that runs for 54 miles, which is Hwy 9 from I-15 to Mt. Carmel Junction. The travel time is about 1.5 hours and this is great for a Zion Canyon scenic drive.

Coming from the west, hop on the byway where Hwy 9 meets Interstate 15, roughly 9 miles from St. George. On the eastern side, the Byway concludes at Hwy 89, right at Mt Carmel Junction.

Hwy 9 is your main gateway to Zion’s National Park. This road takes you by the park’s visitor center, museum, and a string of iconic Zion sights.

Looking to explore Zion Canyon?

This highway is your access point (though remember, during peak tourist times, only shuttles are allowed).

Don’t miss the park’s impressive mile-long tunnel! After driving through the picturesque Checkerboard Mesa region, your scenic ride will wrap up at Hwy 89, right by Mt Carmel Junction.

Then there is Kolob Canyons, which is a section of Zion National Park located near Cedar City in Utah, separate from the main part of the park.

This area showcases the red rock canyons and high peaks of the Kolob Canyons section of the park, offering visitors a more secluded experience compared to the main Zion Canyon.

The Kolob Canyons Picnic Area provides travelers with a place to relax and enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty of the area.

Equipped with picnic tables and facilities, it’s a great spot to take a break during your exploration of the canyons. Whether you’re looking for a starting point before you embark on a trail or a peaceful spot to relax after a day of hiking, the Kolob Canyons Picnic Area offers a serene environment against the backdrop of the park’s magnificent red cliffs.

Travelers planning to visit, remember to check for any park alerts or closures, as maintenance or weather conditions might occasionally affect accessibility, the quality of several campsites, and the maneuverability of mobility devices.

Final Notes

Zion’s National Park is indeed wheelchair accessible. Of course, we are talking about the chair that’s all-terrain capable like the Motus.

But yeah whether at the campsites, at the paved areas, or a canyon junction – plenty of fun can be enjoyed.

We enjoyed our hike in this park and the freedom and peace that nature brings.

The main roads and shuttle buses are wheelchair-friendly! The shuttles are equipped with access ramps, and the drivers are always super helpful.

In a nutshell, Zion’s National Park rolls out the natural red carpet (or should we say ‘red rock’ carpet?) for everyone.

So, if you want to access a mix of adventure and relaxation, with the freedom to move and explore, Zion is waiting with open arms.

Let’s get that trip planned!