There’s no shortage of beautiful outdoor areas in California. And although it’s not possible to extensively explore the rugged backcountry in a standard wheelchair, there are plenty of hikes in the Golden State that are appropriate for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. With that in in mind, here are some of my favorite wheelchair-accessible California trails.

Muir Woods

The accessible Redwood Creek Trail at Muir Woods tops my list of wheelchair-accessible California trails. This two-mile trail winds through the giant redwood forest; and although it’s a pleasant hike any time of the year, it’s especially refreshing on a hot summer day. Plan ahead though, as advance reservations are required due to limited on-site parking. Take a Wheelchair-Accessible Stroll Through California’s Muir Woods

Lower Yosemite Fall

This level paved half-mile trek through the forest includes a short boardwalk section over a muddy stretch. It terminates at the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, where you can feel the water spray on your face. May is the optimum time to view Yosemite Falls at its peak flow. A Wheelchair Accessible Yosemite Falls Hike

Mariposa Grove

Another Yosemite must-see is Mariposa Grove, which offers two accessible trails. The shorter Big Trees Loop is a .3-mile boardwalk with benches to sit and enjoy the forest. The longer Grizzly Giant Loop is a 2/3-mile round-trip hike past the towering Grizzly Giant to the famous California Tunnel Tree. Explore Yosemite’s Wheelchair Accessible Mariposa Grove

MacKerricher Haul Road

Next on my list of of wheelchair-accessible California trails is MacKerricher Haul Road Trail over in Fort Bragg. A 1.25 section of this former rail route boasts some nice coastal views, including a panoramic overlook of Glass Beach. You can do the whole trail or just a short section — your choice. Northern California Rail Trail Offers Sweeping Ocean Views

San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Located along Highway 37 between Vallejo and Novato, the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of accessible trails. From the bayside trail at Cullinan Ranch to a trio of accessible trails at Sears Point, there’s a trail to suit just about everyone at this birding hotspot. San Pablo Bay Refuge Offers a Bevy of Wheelchair-Accessible Trails

Sue-meg State Park

Formerly known as Patrick’s Point, Sue-meg State Park features a number of accessible trails, some of which offer impressive coastal views. You can try one of the shorter trails, or link them all together for a 2.25-mile hike through this scenic park. Sue-meg State Park Offers Wheelchair-Accessible Trails and Sweeping Coastal Views

Los Osos Trails

Local on the Central California Coast, Los Osos boasts two accessible trails with picturesque ocean views. The 2.38-mile Bluff Trail hugs the coastline and includes an accessible picnic table, while the shorter .4-mile trail through Sweet Springs Nature Preserve offers a nice view of Morro Rock. Wheelchair-Accessible Los Osos Trails Offer Contrasting Ocean Views

Mc Arthur Burney Falls State Park

You don’t have to roll far to take in the namesake falls at this Northern California park, but if you want more of a challenge there are longer accessible trails. And after you finish your day of hiking, spend the night in an accessible camping cabin in the park. Take a Hike and Spend the Night at Burney Falls

Calaveras Big Trees

Calaveras Big Trees State Park features wheelchair-accessible trails through two groves of Giant Sequoias. And if you’d like to spend the night there’s also a wheelchair-accessible cabin with a roll-in shower in the park. Wheelchair-Accessible Sequoias at Calaveras Big Trees

Neary Lagoon

This 14-acre marsh is located in Santa Cruz, and it features a one-mile dirt and boardwalk loop through the lagoon. Take your binoculars as it’s an excellent birding site. Visit Santa Cruz’s Neary Lagoon for a Wheelchair-Accessible Nature Stroll

Pomo Bluffs

This short Fort Bragg trail overlooks scenic Noyo Bay, and offers several viewpoints,. as well as a few benches to sit and enjoy it all. It’s also a nice spot for a seaside picnic. Pomo Bluffs Offers Wheelchair-Accessible Ocean Views

Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail

Also located in Fort Bragg, the longer Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail features five miles of pleasant ocean views. And the entire length of this eight-foot wide asphalt multi-use trail is wheelchair-accessible. Fort Bragg Trail Offers Excellent Wheelchair Access

Tiburon Rail Trail

Located across the bay from San Francisco, this wide level cement pathway winds through the greenbelt that borders the water, with plenty of benches to stop for a break along the way. Tiburon — A Hidden Gem Across San Francisco Bay

Castle Crags

Last but not least on my list of wheelchair-accessible California trails is the appropriately named Vista Point Trail at Castle Crags State Park. The quarter-mile trail winds through an oak and cedar forest and offers a stunning view of Mt. Shasta at the end. Castle Crags State Park — More Accessible Than it Sounds

[book_promo name=”cart”]