Wheelchair Accessibility Calgary
If you’re looking for wheelchair accessible locations to explore while visiting Calgary and the surrounding area, this list should be of some help. While I was looking for places to visit while a family member was in town, it shocked me how many places claimed online to be accessible though upon reaching out to them, it became apparent that they fell short on what was advertised. My suggestion is if you find somewhere online, always call ahead to double check!
Calgary Wheelchair Accessibile Spots
Heritage Park is a great way to get outside and enjoy Calgary. This beautiful spot provides a massive walking path that runs along the Glenmore Reservoir allowing you to enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains and little forrest spots. Along with the walking path, the Heritage area itself has made an amazing effort in 2023 to ensure their facility was accessible. Their accommodations include:
Bus transportation from the village to the parking lot
Streetcar form further parking lots to gate
Accessible railcar - this allows you to experience the iconic steam train
Pathway improvement along Prospect Ridge
Clear signage indicating where accessible areas are
Carburn Park is truly one of my most visited spots in Calgary. I try and go at least once a day to walk the paths along the river and ponds while I enjoy the wildlife. Having the option to share this spot with my mom was so special for me. There is accessible parking near the entrance way, followed by a ramped area that takes you right onto the pathway. You are able to take the pathway around two ponds, and the river; stopping at little benches along the way to admire the wildlife around (there are so many birds, ducks, deer, coyotes and even porcupines!) There are also gazebo areas that are available to rent if you’re interested in hosting a little barbecue!
Banff Wheelchair Accessible Spots
Cave and Basin National Historic Site is such a nice spot to explore with family and friends. Upon arrival you give them a call or slip into the information centre at the bottom parking lot, you will than be directed to the accessibility parking up top near the entrance (there are about 7 spots and it is first come first serve). Once you’re parked and ready to head inside there is a ramp heading right to the front door to the customer service desk where you pay your entry fee ( if you have a Canada Parks Pass make sure you bring it as it allows you free entry). Once inside everything is accessible to check out as there are large pathways and ramps where needed. The only trouble we faced were the bathrooms due to garbage can placement mounted to the wall, although by now I hope they have changed it as we did make the suggestion to do so. This place really is a step back in time, super fun for those of all ages to learn about the history of Canada.
Panorama, BC Wheelchair Accessible
This little ski town has so much to offer in all forms. From kid friendly, to wheelchair accessible this town has it all.
The Panorama Village Gondola offers a fantastic opportunity to observe the area from an elevated perspective. It not only provides stunning aerial views but also transports you up the mountain to a hub bustling with restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The staff has the capability to pause the lift, affix a ramp at the base for wheelchair access, at the summit, halt the lift to enable smooth disembarkation onto a level platform. This revelation was truly remarkable, enhancing the individual's capacity to fully immerse in the area's offerings.
Howling Wolf Mini-Golf is such a fun family activity to do while on vacation and thankfully this place is wheelchair accessible! Although the building to receive the clubs and score card are not accessible, the whole 18 holes are. There is tons of room for a chair to wheel around the course which makes it super easy to play every hole.
Along the river runs a beautiful pathway allowing you to watch the river flow, see the grounds and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Although this pathway does not do a full wrap around, it does run from the gondola to the main road, so you will just have to back track to get back to your accommodation.
Accommodations are hit and miss so make sure you’re calling ahead to ensure that the house you’re booking can properly accommodate.
Radium, BC Wheelchair Accessible
Radium Hot Springs stands out as an incredible accessible destination. They provide specialized 'aqua chairs' designed for complete water submersion. Upon arrival, once you transition to your aqua chair (resembling a basic wheelchair), you take the elevator down to the lower level. At the lower level, you'll find lockers for your belongings and an accessible changing room with a shower. The pool can be accessed via a ramp equipped with handles and a textured bottom, facilitating independent or assisted entry into the water. Having the opportunity to watch a loved one experience a sensation of weightlessness for the first time since being bound to a chair was such an incredible experience and I am so grateful that Radium Springs offers this accommodation.
I am constantly keeping an eye out for accessible spots for others to visit so I will be continuing to update this as I find new spots, so make sure you check back in again! :)