Zion Lodge Boasts Wheelchair Accessible Cabin with a View
As the only in-park lodging option Zion Lodge (www.zionlodge.com) is a popular choice for visitors to Zion National Park. This historic property was originally constructed in the 1920s, but it was destroyed by a fire in 1966. Although it was quickly rebuilt, the new design lacked the historic appeal that visitors had come to appreciate, so it was rebuilt once again to resemble the original structure. And not only does the property offer a nicely accessible — and secluded — cabin; but you just can’t beat the location as it’s literally surrounded by Zion Canyon.
Wheelchair-Accessible Cabin at Zion Lodge
Interestingly enough the cabin section of the fire survived the 1966 fire, so you’ll be staying in a piece of Zion history. That said, accessible cabin 529 also includes modern wheelchair access features.
Although personal vehicles are prohibited on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, confirmed Zion Lodge guests receive a permit to drive to the hotel and an access code to park there. From the accessible parking space, there’s level access to the main lodge, and barrier-free access to the front desk, bookstore and accessible restrooms.
Cabin 529 is located a short walk away from the main lodge, but that’s a good thing, as it’s nicely isolated from the hustle and bustle of the main lodge. Accessible parking is available directly in front of the cabin, with ramp access up to the front porch. Access features include wide doorways, a level threshold and good pathway access. The rustic cabin is furnished with a 27-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, a desk with a chair, and two side chairs. And just to set the ambiance, the original coal-powered fireplace has been converted to propane.
The bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench, grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated), and the bathroom also includes a roll-under sink and a portable shower bench. Best of all, there’s no television in the cabin, so you can just sit back and enjoy the sounds of Mother Nature.
Additionally, the cabin is located at the far end of the parking lot, so it doesn’t face any other cabins. It’s the perfect spot to sit back and enjoy the splendor of Zion Canyon from your own front porch.
Zion Lodge Perks
Of course a comfortable accessible cabin with a great view is only one of the perks of staying at Zion Lodge. First of all, Zion Lodge is home to the two in-park restaurants. The Red Rock Grill is just a short elevator ride away from the main lobby and the front desk. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner; the menu features some standard breakfast favorites in the morning, salads and light entrees at lunch, and a variety of steak, seafood and vegetarian offerings for dinner.
The more casual Castle Dome Café, which is closed during the winter months, is located to the left of the gift shop, just off the main lobby. There’s level access to the snack bar, which offers coffee and pastries in the morning, and burgers, hot dogs, fries and other snack items throughout the rest of the day. Accessible seating is available in the adjacent patio, and as an added bonus this café also a beer cart in the afternoon.
Another perk of staying at Zion Lodge is the scenery. Not only can you enjoy Zion Canyon from your own cabin, but it’s not unusual to spot wild turkeys and deer on the front lawn of the main lodge. Get up early and stake out a place on the patio, and enjoy a little wildlife viewing with your morning coffee.
And finally, the Xanterra folks make it easy to find and book the accessible cabin. Just pick a date and select “show ADA rooms”. Then select your room and book it online. It’s that easy — no phone calls or special requests are required.
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