Accessible Travel in Alaska

Alaska is accessible for all. Whether you are interested in a guided tour package or independent adventures to experience Alaska's vast natural beauty and rich culture, there are a wide variety of year-round vacation experiences that are accessible for visitors in wheelchairs and those with limited mobility. If you opt for cruise travel, shore excursions at popular ports of call have sightseeing options that include lift-assisted motorcoaches or rail cars. Try a helicopter ride above a glacier or watch whales from a wheelchair-accessible boat. For people with sensitivity to noise and light, some cruise companies offer sensory-friendly options, menu alternatives, and private activities.

Service animals are welcome in all public facilities, and national parks have brochures available in braille and large print for visually impaired visitors (call ahead to ensure availability). At most national parks, American Sign Language interpretations are available upon request with advanced notice for ranger presentations. In Denali National Park & Preserve, a popular visitor destination, tour buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts. Be advised that not all national park trails meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

Adaptive gear for skiing and other recreational activities is available through organizations such as Southcentral Alaska’s Challenge Alaska and Southeast Alaska Independent Living. Many public and private campgrounds offer accessible campsites, and individual tour providers may offer adaptive gear for activities such as kayaking and fishing upon request.

Accessible Travel Trip Ideas

• Multi-day Cruises
• Train trips on the Alaska Railroad and White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
• Motorcoach tours
• Whale watching, glacier viewing, and river day cruises
• Flightseeing tours
• Denali National Park bus tours
• Chena Hot Springs
• Fishing charters specifically designed for accessibility
• Museums, cultural centers, and wildlife conservation centers
• Accessible trails in national parks and public lands

Accessible Travel Resources

• Alaska Department of Fish and Game wildlife viewing areas with wheelchair accessible facilities
• ADA Facilities in Alaska State Parks
• Challenge Alaska, offering adaptive sports and therapeutic recreation in Southcentral Alaska
• SAIL (Southeast Alaska Independent Living), offering adaptive recreation opportunities in Southeast Alaska
• Travel Juneau Accessible Tourism
• Visit Anchorage Accessibility Page
• NCOA Mobility-Friendly Travel Guide