No matter who you are, everyone deserves to travel. Travel opens us up to new, exciting experiences and cultures all over the world. Colorado is one of those exciting places within the US, and despite the physicality of its most popular activities, this state is accessible to all. There are many ways people with disabilities can enjoy the adventures of Colorado, including the three examples listed below.
- Reserve a Wheelchair for Special Terrain
When we first think of Colorado, we imagine the rocky mountainsides populated by ambitious hikers. Many of these mountains are within state and national parks that welcome visitors of all abilities, including those in wheelchairs. Before you worry that a hike will damage your wheelchair, think again. Staunton State Park offers five all-terrain vehicles that are available for reservation and has multiple accessible trails. Check the reservation calendar on their website to help you plan your trip.
Great Sand Dunes National Park also offers accessible wheelchair reservations. You can reserve a special sand wheelchair to explore this breathtaking park during your visit to Colorado. However, there is only one accessible bathroom within the park. So, once you’re in the dunes, make sure to plan accordingly.
- Try Tandem Skydiving
If you want to do something more thrilling than a park visit, Colorado still has plenty to offer. Skydiving is a popular activity and a great way to appreciate all the views of this beautiful state. Mile-Hi Skydiving Center and other skydiving businesses around the state provide tandem skydiving opportunities that are ideal for beginners and those with disabilities. Check with your doctor to ensure this is a safe activity for you to participate in. Once you get the green light, get ready to enjoy a rush of adrenaline like no other. If someone is coming with you who has already skydived, jumping without a tandem is also an option provided by most skydiving companies.
- Ski at an Accessible Resort
Skiing in Colorado is a great bucket list idea, especially when planning a mother-daughter trip. Skiing in this incredible state is also an accessible bucket-list activity that adventurous souls can consider. The Breckenridge Ski Resort in Vail prides itself on inclusivity, focusing on making women and people with disabilities comfortable on the slopes. This is one of the best ski resorts to travel to in Colorado because it has slopes available for people of all skiing levels. Hiking, snowboarding, and general resort activities such as fine dining are also available.
People with disabilities can enjoy Colorado from all angles in multiple ways, including the three we listed above. Whether you’re looking for an accessible glide through beautiful parks, a thrilling flight through the air, or a safe place to try winter sports, Colorado has something for everyone. The state is most accessible from June to October, though that does depend on projected snowfall. We recommend scheduling your trip during these warmer months. Contact any potential travel destinations to ask about accessibility options, as these are not the only three ways to see this beautiful state.
