11 Accessible Outdoor Adventure Ideas

If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have roots instead of feet.

Rachel Wolchin

Everyone deserves to have an adventure if they want one. Say it louder for the people in the back. When looking for inspiration for this week’s post I was perusing the big, wide world of Google. I’m not sure what sparked my interest, but I was curious about adventure travel and how many places were accessible for differently abled people. There are shockingly few articles about adventure destinations that are also accessible. So, I wanted to fill that void a little bit.

All of these adventures look incredible to me and you can bet your last dollar that I want to experience them all. However, they’re made even better by the fact that EV-ER-Y-ONE can too. Enjoy!

Hot Air Ballooning in Catalonia, Spain

Venture out of Barcelona for a day trip to Garrotxa Volcanic Zone National Park for an incredible experience. Vol de Coloms is one of several tour companies that will take you floating over dormant volcanoes, searching for views of the Mediterranean Sea, and enjoying a fun day in the skies. This company also provides remote-controlled seats for wheelchair users so anyone can have a safe experience.

Skiing in Park City, Utah

Maybe winter is more your season. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier, there’s a slope for you on Park City Mountain. They have an adaptive ski program with adaptive equipment and certified instructors to make hitting the slopes more accessible. There are several different types of skis available as they try to cater to every ability.

Rainforest/Waterfall Exploring in IguazĂș Falls, Brazil/Argentina

Nestled on the border between Brazil and Argentina is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world. What’s better than that? How about exploring the lush rainforest around it? What’s even better? There are trails for everyone. Wheelchair friendly trails and electric carts are available to ensure the paths are accessible for every nature lover.

Bike Tours in New Mexico, USA

New Mexico is one of the most gorgeous places on the planet AND they have tons of film & TV tours. The Albuquerque-based company Routes Rentals offer inclusive tours for almost every ability. They have tricycles, tandem bikes, electric bikes, recumbent bikes and more to offer their services to as many people as possible.

Camel Riding in Merzouga, Morocco

It’s easy to adjust a bike, but a camel? C’mon Emma. Yep, it’s possible except the harness will be adjusted, not the camel. The trip to Merzouga is a 9-hour drive from Marrakech, but it’s worth it to explore the dunes of Erg Chebbi. Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants offer camel rides in the desert for those with limited mobility with an adaptive camel saddle, backrest, and headrest.

Sailing in Wisconsin, USA

Adaptive sailing is gaining in popularity around the world, but (from what I can tell) Sheboygan, Wisconsin is one of the best places. A non-profit organization called Sailing Education Association of Sheboygan ensures boats are fitted with adaptive solutions including wheelchair lifts, custom-designed boats, and they even have options available for hands-free steering.

Kayaking in New Zealand

New Zealand is the ultimate destination for people who want to get outdoors and forget about all their worries. Lake Wanaka is not your normal lake, oh no. It’s a massive body of water surrounded by mountains. Basically, it’s the epitome of gorgeous. Paddle Wanaka aims to have everyone out on their lake kayaking or paddling. Every person gets an assessment to see which modifications will allow them to be safe out on the water and guided tours are available as well.

Hiking the Austrian Alps

Hiking the Alps doesn’t seem like an accessible thing to do, but oh what a wonderful world we live in. Don’t worry accessible trails aren’t relegated to the least interesting part of the country. In fact, the trails are located in one of the most popular regions, Tyrol. There are several trails that are accessible by wheelchair and there are plenty of bars and restaurants along the way so you can stop for a breather or a snack.

Zip Lining in Costa Rica

Zip lining through the canopies of the Costa Rican rainforest is one of the most popular adventures to have while in the country and now it’s accessible to all. Il Viaggo Travel will have you zipping past a volcano and over the treetops for a one-of-a-kind view of Arenal Volcano National Park’s landscape.

photo from arbordayfarm.com

Treetop Exploring in Nebraska, USA

Want to spend a day exploring like a squirrel? Arbor Day Farm is home to a treetop village straight out of your dreams. There are 3 acres of bridges and lookouts to make you feel like you’re immersed in a treetop world. To get to the top you’ll cross a wheelchair friendly suspension bridge to the main viewing platform. From there you’re free to explore all over the place!

African Safari in Botswana

Is there a more iconic adventure than a safari in Africa? The answer is no. In Botswana you can explore the desert, grasslands, forests, and so many more awe-inspiring places based on your interests. Endeavor Safaris set a goal for themselves to have options for every level of mobility. They even have tours all over the continent so you can explore far and wide.

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