Ulster County has positioned itself as a destination in accessible tourism, embracing the concept of “Wild Access” to offer adaptive adventures for individuals with disabilities.
The Ulster County Fair in New Paltz showcases the county’s commitment to inclusivity. This annual event features livestock races, carnival rides, and arts and crafts, with accessibility features such as blacktopped paths for easier wheelchair navigation. Sensory-safe hours allow visitors to enjoy rides without lights or music, and a Safe Sensory Space booth provides headphones for adults and children.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also find accessible camping options across the county. Kenneth L. Wilson Campground in Mount Tremper features an ADA-compliant trail and fishing platform, providing a gateway to the wilderness for visitors of all abilities. Nearby, the Catskills Visitor Center offers wheelchair-accessible trails, while the Shandaken Wild Forest includes wheelchair-accessible campsites, fishing platforms, and portable toilets.
For those seeking adaptive hiking experiences, Mohonk Preserve lends an all-terrain hiking wheelchair and adapts certain programs with American Sign Language interpretation. The Ashokan Rail Trail, with its 12-foot-wide, finely crushed stone surface, is ADA-compliant, including accessible parking areas and portable restrooms.
Ulster County also offers adaptive recreation opportunities beyond hiking and camping. At SOAR Experiences in Ellenville, a nonprofit organization, visitors can engage in adaptive outdoor recreation activities tailored for people with disabilities. Additionally, Belleayre Mountain features adaptive skiing lessons designed for individuals with cognitive, physical, or emotional disabilities.
Therapeutic horseback riding is available at Frog Hollow Farm through the Horses for a Change program, while the Forsyth Nature Center provides opportunities to connect with animals in an inclusive setting. For thrill-seekers, Skydive the Ranch offers skydiving adventures for people with physical disabilities.
Visitors can explore Ulster County’s rich history at accessible landmarks such as the Senate House State Historic Site, where the lower level is wheelchair-accessible. Historic Huguenot Street provides inclusive tours of its National Historic Landmark District, which features 18th-century church replicas and historic stone homes.
In addition, the county hosts inclusive events like “Get Outdoors & Get Together,” organized by the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities. This annual event invites participants of all abilities to engage in adaptive adventures such as hiking, birding, fishing, and paddling, ensuring everyone can connect with nature.
