Waterfalls Directory
Trip Planning

Accessible Waterfalls

Everyone deserves to experience the magic of waterfalls. Here's how to find and plan visits to accessible waterfall destinations.

Waterfalls have historically been challenging destinations for people with mobility limitations—many are reached only by rugged trails with steep terrain. But increasingly, parks and forests are creating accessible viewing areas, paved paths, and facilities that open these natural wonders to everyone.

Whether you use a wheelchair, have limited mobility, or are planning a trip with elderly family members or young children in strollers, this guide will help you find waterfalls you can enjoy.

Understanding Accessibility Levels

"Accessible" means different things at different locations. Here's what to look for:

Fully Accessible

  • ADA-compliant paved path to viewing area
  • Accessible parking with designated spaces
  • Accessible restrooms nearby
  • Viewing platform or area at wheelchair height

Partially Accessible

  • Paved path but may have some grade
  • Viewpoint visible from parking area
  • May require assistance in places
  • Some facilities accessible

Easy Access

  • Very short, relatively flat walk
  • Not fully ADA compliant but manageable
  • May have uneven surfaces
  • Good for limited mobility but not wheelchairs

What to Research Before You Go

Accessibility information online is often vague or outdated. Here's how to get accurate details:

Questions to Ask

  • Path surface: Is it paved, boardwalk, gravel, or natural? How wide?
  • Grade/slope: What's the steepest section? Is it ADA-compliant (max 5% running slope)?
  • Distance: How far from accessible parking to the viewing area?
  • Obstacles: Are there steps, curbs, or roots that block wheelchair access?
  • Viewing area: Can you see the falls from wheelchair height? Are there railings that block views?
  • Restrooms: Are accessible restrooms available? How far from the waterfall?
  • Current conditions: Is the accessible route currently passable? (Construction, seasonal closures, etc.)

Where to Find Information

  • Park websites: Most have accessibility pages, though detail varies.
  • Call the park: Rangers can give current, specific information.
  • AllTrails accessibility filter: Shows wheelchair-friendly trails.
  • WheelchairTravel.org: Reviews from wheelchair users themselves.
  • Google Maps reviews: Search for "accessible" or "wheelchair" in reviews.
  • YouTube: Video walkthroughs show actual conditions better than descriptions.

Trust But Verify

Accessibility claims aren't always accurate. A path marked "accessible" might have a section that's too steep or rough. Whenever possible, call ahead and ask specific questions, or look for recent reviews from people who actually use wheelchairs.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Considerations

  • Arrive early: Accessible parking spaces fill up fast at popular waterfalls.
  • Weekdays are easier: Fewer crowds mean less congestion on paths and at viewpoints.
  • Check weather: Rain can make paved paths slippery. Hot days may make outdoor mobility more difficult.
  • Avoid peak season: Crowded conditions can make accessible routes harder to navigate.

What to Bring

  • Backup mobility aid: If you use a power chair, consider bringing a manual backup.
  • All-terrain attachments: Devices like FreeWheel can help navigate uneven sections.
  • Sun and rain protection: Viewpoints may not have shade or shelter.
  • Binoculars: If the accessible viewpoint is distant, binoculars help you see details.
  • Portable seat: For companions who may need to rest.

Accessibility Features to Look For

The best accessible waterfall destinations have thoughtful design:

Ideal Features

  • Level viewing platforms at wheelchair-appropriate height with open sightlines
  • Paved paths wide enough for wheelchairs to pass (minimum 36", ideally 60"+)
  • Rest areas with benches along longer routes
  • Accessible parking close to trailhead with adequate space for van lifts
  • Curb cuts and smooth transitions at all junctions
  • Audio description or tactile displays at some locations

Notable Accessible Waterfalls by Region

These waterfalls are known for good accessibility (always verify current conditions):

Pacific Northwest

  • Multnomah Falls (OR): Paved path to lower viewpoint, accessible restrooms
  • Snoqualmie Falls (WA): Accessible upper viewpoint with paved path
  • Silver Falls State Park (OR): South Falls viewpoint accessible

Southeast

  • Anna Ruby Falls (GA): Paved accessible trail to viewing platform
  • Amicalola Falls (GA): Drive-up accessible reflection pool viewpoint
  • Looking Glass Falls (NC): Roadside viewpoint, short accessible area

Northeast

  • Niagara Falls (NY): Extensive accessible facilities and viewpoints
  • Bushkill Falls (PA): Main falls viewable from accessible area
  • Buttermilk Falls SP (NY): Accessible viewing from parking area

Western States

  • Lower Yosemite Falls (CA): Accessible paved loop trail
  • Brandywine Falls (BC): Accessible viewing platform
  • Shoshone Falls (ID): Accessible viewpoints at overlook

Conditions Change

Accessibility can be affected by construction, weather damage, or policy changes. Always verify current accessibility by calling the park directly before planning your trip around a specific waterfall.

Roadside and Drive-Up Waterfalls

Some of the most accessible waterfalls require no walking at all. These "roadside" falls can be viewed from or very near your vehicle:

What to Look For

  • Pullouts with views: Some waterfalls are visible directly from roadside parking areas.
  • Scenic overlooks: Paved overlooks designed for drive-up viewing.
  • Very short walks: Falls within sight of parking, just feet from your car.

These are excellent options for days when getting out of the vehicle isn't practical, or for adding waterfall stops to a road trip without requiring a hike.

Traveling with Mobility Equipment

Power Wheelchairs and Scooters

  • Check weight limits on any trails or boardwalks
  • Verify path width—some "accessible" trails are too narrow for larger power chairs
  • Battery range matters—know the distance and bring a charger if available
  • Wet conditions affect traction and battery performance

Manual Wheelchairs

  • Paved paths may still have grades that require assistance
  • Consider all-terrain attachments for gravel or uneven sections
  • Cushioned grips and gloves help on longer pushes

Walkers and Canes

  • Look for "easy" trails with minimal obstacles
  • Uneven surfaces are common—rubber tips provide better grip than standard
  • Rest benches along the route are valuable

Resources for Accessible Travel

  • WheelchairTravel.org: Detailed accessibility reviews by wheelchair users
  • AbleThrive: Travel guides for people with disabilities
  • National Park Service Accessibility: Each park has an accessibility page
  • AccessibleGO: Accessible hotel and destination booking
  • State park accessibility guides: Most state park systems publish accessibility information

Advocating for Better Access

If you find a waterfall with poor accessibility, your feedback matters:

  • Contact the park service with specific suggestions
  • Leave reviews noting accessibility issues (and successes)
  • Support organizations advocating for trail accessibility
  • Participate in public comment periods for park planning

Every comment helps parks prioritize accessibility improvements. The more visitors ask for accessible features, the more likely they are to be funded and built.

Find Accessible Waterfalls

Browse our directory to find waterfalls with wheelchair access and paved trails. Look for the accessibility badges on listings.

Wheelchair Accessible Falls Paved Trail Waterfalls