Looking for a treasure trove of accessible recreation locations that cater to individuals of all abilities? Look no further Washington County, New York, whose many options allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world. From wheelchair-accessible trails to adaptive boating programs, our county offers a myriad of ways for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.
Let’s explore some of Washington County’s most unique adventures for those with disabilities:
Forests, Fields & Fishing: Disability-Friendly Locations in the Area
Accessible Birding and Wildlife Watching Locations
If you love birding, you’re in luck! Many of Washington County’s best birdwatching sites are wheel-chair friendly.
Alfred Z. Solomon Viewing Area – Fort Edward, NY – Overlooking one of the most famous grasslands in North America, this viewing site features plenty of parking as well as a paved building for viewing birds in the shade. Learn more about the birds you might find on the Grassland Bird Trust website. And, visit the nearby Washington County Grasslands Wildlife Management Area to enjoy more breathtaking views of owls, raptors, songbirds and more.
East Bay Wildlife Management Area – Whitehall, NY – Enjoy incredible views from this viewing platform overlooking a grassland in northern Washington County. The wheelchair-friendly 0.1-mile path leading from the designated accessible parking lot provides great views of both wooded wetlands and upland forest, as well as all the critters that dwell within.
Carters Pond Wildlife Management Area – Visitors with wheelchairs can enjoy a half-mile nature trail at Carters Pond, ending in an elevated viewing platform overlooking the pond. As a thriving Wildlife Management Area and Bird Conservation Area, it’s become a popular spot with animal enthusiasts of all abilities. Or, enjoy a shorter trail down a board walk to another beautiful deck overlooking the pond!
Carver Falls Gorge and Waterfalls – Whitehall, NY – Get a unique view of a waterfall-turned-dam at the Carver Falls Gorge! While the overlook is ADA accessible, there are also several short and easy trails for those with slightly more mobility.
Empire State Trail/Champlain Canalway Trail – Fort Edward to Fort Ann, NY- This 12-mile section of the Empire State Trail is comfortable for hikers and cyclists of all abilities, intertwining views of historic farmland, small towns and waterways. Plus, most of the hand boat ramps along the canal are accessible by design!
Glens Falls Feeder Canal Towpath Trail – Stretching from Mullen Park in Fort Edward up to Glens Falls, this fully-paved 9-mile trail overlooks some of the area’s most scenic landscapes, both historical and natural. The Five Combined Locks park is a popular spot to park and explore.
Handicapped-Accessible Spots for Equestrians
Lake George Horse Trails at Lake George Wild Forest – Fort Ann, NY – Ride in the forest with your horse on the Lake George Horse Trails! Equestrians who require a leg-up can use the equestrian mountain platforms at Dacy Clearing and Upper Hogtown Road. Then, feel free to explore the following trails maintained for riding: Erebus, Fishbrook, Lake Shore, Longway, Red Rock Bay, Ridge, Shelving Rock, and Shortway.
Nipper Knolls Equine Center – Granville, NY – For younger riders who need a more specialized experience, you have several local options! Nipper Knolls has helped many children and veterans with special needs experience the joy of horseback riding. The center is run by a board-certified Hippotherapy Clinical Specialist who is also a PATH International certified riding instructor. By appointment only.
A Dapple A Day Equine Center – Kingsbury, NY – Another PATH Therapeutic Horseback center, A Dapple a Day provides lessons in riding to people with emotional, social, cognitive, and physical disabilities in the area. The center offers many programs, including lessons in natural horsemanship and therapeutic riding/adaptive riding lessons. Therapeutic riding requires prior clearance from a medical professional to participate.
Disability-Friendly Recreational Boating and Fishing Destinations
Lake Champlain South Bay Fishing Pier – Whitehall, NY – If you’re looking for a universally designed classic fishing pier, you’ll love South Bay Pier! With benches, parking, and a covered area at the end of the pier, anglers of all abilities will have a great time. This highly-populated area of the lake includes sport species like northern pike or largemouth bass, as well as catfish and large gar.
Cossayuna Lake & Boat Launch Site –Â Argyle, NY – The perfect-sized lake for a day on the water, Cossayuna‘s hard surface ramp is popular with many kayakers and canoers. With a parking lot for 30 cars and trailers, this accessible spot is a great launch point to catch fish ranging from tiger muskellunge to rock bass!
Fort Ann Landing Kayak Launch Docks –Â Fort Ann, NY – This floating dock is the best place to launch onto the Champlain Canal in Fort Ann! Additionally, it features wheelchair access to the launch, parking for 20 cars, picnic tables and a pavilion. And nearby, you’ll enjoy several shops & restaurants!
Accessible Picnicking Locations
Bob and Betty Cummings Memorial Park – Putnam Station, NY – Enjoy a picnic at this peaceful park featuring a scenic view of Lake Champlain! Guests have their pick of picnic tables and grills beneath the pavilion. Plus, this park is a popular spot to see many species of birds. Maintained bathrooms available seasonally.
The Hudson Crossing Park – Between the Hudson & Champlain Canal – While not all of the Hudson Crossing Park is paved, guests with disabilities are able to enjoy several scenic areas a short distance from the parking lot. Their Picnic Pavilion is fully accessible, and features restrooms and tables perfect for picnicking.
Other Handicapped Accessible Locations Across Washington County, New York
Of course, there are many more great local locations welcoming to those of limited abilities. After all, our beautiful scenery and range of businesses provide the perfect setting for visitors of all kinds to enjoy the countryside.
Check out these additional accessible locations to build into your trip:
Washington County Fairgrounds – Greenwich, NY – Discover your next adventure held at our local Fairgrounds, including Antique Fairs, the Homesteading Festival, the County Fair and the Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival. Much of the historic property has been renovated to be wheelchair-friendly, including entrances, aisles, the buildings, restrooms and grandstand. Additionally, guests will enjoy designated parking. Learn more about accessibility at the Fairgrounds.
Slate Valley Museum – Granville, NY – Learn about this area’s world-famous history of slate quarrying in this unique local museum, open from mid-May until winter. Plus, it’s fully accessible for people with disabilities!
Country Peddler Shoppe – Greenwich, NY – Within this charming shopping plaza you’ll find the popular Greenwich Village Cafe & Bakery, the women’s clothing boutique Just Because, and the charming Country Peddler Shoppe. While the upstairs Christmas Attic is not handicapped-accessible, ramps allow those with wheelchairs or limited mobility to access the shops below.
Hubbard Hall – Cambridge, NY – Each public space in the historic Hubbard Hall is wheelchair-friendly. For the easiest access to the elevator and main building, park in the designated spots behind the Hall. Then, learn more about the various accommodations in place to help the community enjoy performances, classes and more through Hubbard Hall!
Rogers Island Visitors Center – Fort Edward, NY – Dive into local history at the fully-accessible Rogers Island Visitors Center! This neat museum brings history to life through an in-depth archaeological exhibit, built on the site of one of the Revolutionary War’s largest military camps. Come visit to learn more about native history, the creation of Roger’s Rangers and much, much more.
Looking for more ways to enjoy Washington County?
With its stunning natural beauty, accessible recreation destinations and inclusive approach, Washington County, NY welcomes visitors of all abilities to explore and appreciate the wonders of the great outdoors. It’s a place where everyone can experience the joy and freedom of being in nature, regardless of their physical limitations. So bring your family & enjoy the fun!
No matter your interest or ability level, you’ll find many more great options awaiting you across the county. Explore our museums, live music scene, craft beverages and more. And finally, check out our range of neat local events or discover great places to stay. Looking for a great idea? Moose Hillock Camping Resort offers many accommodations for campers with disabilities.
