Accessible Outdoor Adventures
One-Day Trip
The Minnesota DNR and local businesses in Lake County believe that all people, regardless of disability, should have access to and enjoy the beauty of nature. This itinerary will highlight accessible places to stay and visit from the North Shore to Fall Lake Township near the BWCAW.
What To Bring:
- Water
- Backpack
- Bug spray
- Sunblock
- Warm clothing
- Snacks
- Bait and fishing rods
Minnesota State Trails and Accessibility
State trails make an excellent option for some people with physical disabilities, as most trail surfaces consist of paved asphalt and range from 8 to 12 feet wide.
However, steeper slopes may exist on portions of trails. For example, some state bicycle trails, such as the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, can feature steeper slopes.
All state trails permit Electric wheelchairs.
Explore North Shore State Parks
Gooseberry Falls State Park: 2 hours
Stop at the visitor center
Be sure to stop at the Joseph N. Alexander Visitor Center, where you can gather park information, view interpretive displays, watch a park video, browse and shop the Nature Store, and more! Don’t miss the Gateway Plaza for outdoor interpretive signs on area resources and history.
experience the falls
A paved, wheelchair-accessible mile-long hiking trail begins at the visitor center. It leads to the main falls area, where you can listen to the thunderous roar of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls of the Gooseberry River as it plummets through a rocky gorge.
Visit Split Rock Lighthouse
Start at the Visitor Center: One Hour
Learn about the history of Split Rock Lighthouse, embark on a self-guided tour, and discover unique gifts and souvenirs to take home.
View the Split Rock Lighthouse Film
“The Story of Split Rock Lighthouse” denotes the history and scenic beauty of this popular northern Minnesota tourist destination, as well as the dramatic storms and shipwrecks that occurred on Lake Superior.
Explore Exhibits
Learn about the significance of Lake Superior shipping and the famous shipwrecks that prompted the lighthouse construction. Also, discover artifacts and interesting historical facts about the lighthouse and the North Shore.
Additional Visitor Center Features:
- Check out the monthly rotating “Photography at the Rock” photography show displayed in the lobby of the visitor center.
- Visit the museum store and bring home a souvenir, such as maritime decor, artwork, souvenirs, apparel, and many locally-crafted items.
Take a Stroll: One Hour
A short, quarter-mile paved trail in the picnic area follows the shoreline of Lake Superior.
Additionally, you can access the Gitchi-Gami State Trail from Split Rock Lighthouse State park, where you can immerse yourself in the woods and take in views of Lake Superior. Please use caution as there are some steeper slopes along this paved trail.
Go Fishing on Lake Superior: Two Hours
Iona’s Beach Scientific & Natural Area (SNA)
For the last stop of the day, head south from Split Rock Lighthouse for about four miles, and you’ll reach Twin Points Water Access adjacent to Iona’s Beach SNA. This Lake Superior public access point features a paved parking lot and provides an accessible 150-foot crib dock with some launch ramp protection.
Where to Stay
Top Pick: Veterans on the Lake Resort
Veterans on the Lake Resort provides the finest vacations for veterans, the disabled public, and their families and friends. Through their excellent support staff and the beautiful scenery of Ely, you will quickly redefine the meaning of relaxation. They aim to provide the highest quality vacations providing exceptional service and great amenities at affordable rates. Consider staying for multiple days at this beautiful resort!
For more information and reservations, visit VeteransOnTheLakeResort.org.
You can find nearly 40 lodging establishments in Lake County that are wheelchair-accessible. Visit LovinLakeCounty.com to learn more.