Unable to Hike/Miss too much?
 

My husband an I are thinking about taking a trip to Utah late Sept/early Oct.I have been reading all the posts and am very excited about seeing all the beautiful NPs in this area. Our one reservation,however, is it seems that a "must do" in each park are hikes. My husband has limited mobility and will not be able to much hiking(if any). My question: will we miss too much if we are limited in such a way? Should we rethink and go elsewhere? Thanks for your input.

No, you won't miss "too" much. Still absolutely spectacular scenery that can be viewed from the drive through. Drive all the roads available, not just "one way".

A few walks at some parks are very short & level, or have a lookout point that is not far from your car.

No, no - don't go elsewhere! Southern Utah's national parks are breathtaking!

Do not miss Utah - it is a spectacular place. We went through there on a road trip about 12 years ago and were amazed at the landscapes. We didn't do a lot of hiking either, but it was well worth the trip. Without hiking, you will get a different experience than people who hike, but that's ok. It is still definitely worth the trip.

I am not a hiker - walking is fine (personal preference, not disability). At Bryce last summer husband and 2 teenagers did short (1-2 hrs) hike down amongst hoodoos. I stayed at top, enjoyed view - did a short walk along the edge. We returned in car for sunrise and sunset. It is about a 200 foot walk from parking lot to point where you can see anything. Paths are generally paved. Benches for sitting for a rest are available.

You could also add Grand Canyon - plenty to see there without a strenuous hike. Buses along South Rim, short walk to lookouts.

We were hoping you would say that:-) Thank you for the quick replies. You have put our minds at ease- See you in Utah!!

Glad you decided to go. You won't be disappointed!

Utahtea

Happy to see that you decided to go. I would still like to add that if you go and don't hike then, yes, you might miss some of it. But, if you don't go then you will miss ALL of it.

I would encourage anyone restricted to a wheel chair to visit the national parks of Utah. That pretty much puts my thinking into perspective.