Seven Top Wheelchair Accessible Natural Attractions in Michigan
ADA and handicap accessibility in West Michigan is thriving as more and more attractions are adapted.
West Michigan has made a lot of changes to state parks and other natural areas to be inclusive for any and all visitors. Not only have nonprofit organizations helped with donations but the different promotions and fundraising done by the parks themselves has helped build up the many different solutions to make the beautiful west side more accessible.
By prioritizing safety and accessibility, state parks along the coast of Lake Michigan have paved trails, built ramps to the water, and acquired track chairs and beach chairs to better the availability of Michigan’s fine beaches and forests.
Support for even more accessible adaptations is growing on this side of the state as fundraising, promotions, and more receive more attention.
Holland State Park – 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424
With a walkway down to the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan, Holland State Park offers a wonderful getaway that is accessible to all. One of the top wheelchair accessible parks in west Michigan, the park also offers a beach wheelchair that was donated in 2018 by non-profit organization Lori’s Voice.
You’ll also find an accessibile play structure for kids, as well as accessible picnic tables and sitting areas, so you can gaze at beautiful Lake Michigan, too. Be sure to use our complete Guide to Holland Michigan for more information on things to see and places to stay, too.
William Field Memorial Hart – Montague Trail State Park
A 22-mile-long paved trail is perfect for a long hike through the countryside. With different outlooks for picnicking and scenic enjoyment, this dismantled railroad became a recreational trail that travels from Hart to Montague.
Passing many treasures of the Great Lake State, including the world’s largest working weathervane, this is a great way to spend a day or two outdoors.
Grand Haven State Park – 1001 S Harbor Dr, Grand Haven MI 49417
Similar to that of Holland State Park, it’s northern waterfront neighbor also offers a walkway down the canal and a beach wheelchair for a full day of beach fun. Grand Haven State Park also has numerous walking trails that are accessible to everyone for a little outdoor adventure.
The Grand Haven boardwalk is Wheelchair accessible, too. It stretches from Lake Michigan all teh ay to downtown Grand Haven, and follows the picturesque Grand River.
Muskegon State Park – 3560 Memorial Dr, North Muskegon, MI 48445
Muskegon State Park offers the option of renting electronic track chairs to help assist in conquering a sandy beach or a wooded trail. This wheelchair accessible park in west Michigan is a beautiful spot to explore.
At no cost, these track chairs are available to help explore different areas of the park, including wandering in up to eight inches of water.
Silver Lake State Park – 9679 W State Park Rd, Mears, MI 49436
While currently in the process of fundraising for a new track chair for the park, Silver Lake State Park does offer two beach wheelchairs for borrowing at the lighthouse parking lot and the campground office. Both the campground and beach allow for wheelchair access. Trails are also accessible in certain areas of the park.
The Silver Lake area is one of the top tourist destinations in Michigan, and with good reason. You’ll find some of the prettiest Lake MIchigan beach in the area, surrounded by rolling sand dunes.
Hoffmaster State Park – 6585 Lake Harbor Rd, Norton Shores, MI 49441
Whether you’re visiting the beach for the day to soak in the sun or spending a rustic night at the beautiful campground, Hoffmaster State Park has opportunities for accessibility all throughout the park. Paved trails allow for wheelchair access in limited regions.
P.J. Hoffmaster is recognized for its stunning natural beauty and nature interpretation centers, that are wheelchair accessible too. These centers provide an opportunity for a deeper appreciation for the natural area.
Duck Lake State Park – 4733 N Scenic Dr, Whitehall, MI 49461
With a half mile of paved trail and a close parking area, Duck Lake State Park accommodates accessible routes to the waterfront and picnic areas for the perfect day in West Michigan.
Accessible boat docks and piers are available as well as viewing areas and scenic outlooks.
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About the Author-
Content Writer Anna is currently a fourth-year student at Grand Valley State University studying Writing and Psychology. She has been writing for years and hopes to continue writing for many years as a creative outlet and potential career. Currently, she is working on finishing her Bachelor of Arts degree and figuring out what career field she wants to enter after graduation in the spring of 2023.