Accessible Guide to Ulster County, NY: Things to Do, Hotels & Food
Less than 90 minutes north of New York City you'll find 250,000 acres of protected wilderness, the Hudson Valley in full color come autumn, Kingston (New York's first capital), and the town that inspired the most famous music festival of the 20th century. Welcome to Ulster County!
Now, Ulster County has been verified for accessibility, meaning they took detailed measurements so you can have trusted info available to make the best decisions for yourself. All of the places mentioned in this guide were verified in person by Wheel the World trained mappers.
Accessible things to do
Ride the trails at Mohonk Preserve
Mohonk Preserve protects 8,000 acres of the Shawangunk Ridge, the iconic white cliffs you’ve probably seen in photos of the Hudson Valley. In person, they’re even better.
The Preserve has over 70 miles of carriage roads and trails. The accessible routes follow the old carriage roads, which are wide, well-maintained, and run right through some of the best scenery in the region. If you can go on a clear day, the views from the ridge are outstanding. Fall is especially worth it.
The Visitor Center is free to enter and day passes get you access to the land.
All-terrain wheelchair: The Preserve lends out an all-terrain wheelchair on-site, available by reservation or first-come, first-served at the Visitor Center. You’ll need to be able to self-transfer and stay under the 250-pound weight limit. Call ahead to reserve it so it’s ready when you arrive.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility Details
Outdoor Access
- Accessible paths: yes
- Trail inclination: very gentle slope
- Path width: over 32 inches
Restrooms
- Accessible restroom: yes, multi-stall
- Toilet height: 18–19 in, with fixed grab bars
Parking
- Accessible spaces across 3 lots: 11, 1, and 3 spaces
- Near entrance, obstacle-free route
Hearing Accessibility
- Information in print
Adaptive Equipment
- Invacare Top End wheelchair — 1 unit available
Walk the Ashokan Rail Trail
The Ashokan Rail Trail runs 11 miles along the Ashokan Reservoir, one of the most photographed spots in the Hudson Valley. The reservoir was built in the early 1900s to supply New York City with water, and the nine villages that once sat beneath it were flooded to make it happen. That history makes the views feel a little different once you know it.
The trail is flat, wide, and paved for most of its length, which makes it one of the most accessible outdoor experiences in the region.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Outdoor Access
- Accessible paths: yes
- Trail inclination: very gentle slope
- Path width: over 32 inches
Restrooms
- Accessible single-user restroom available
- Toilet height: 19 in, with fixed grab bars
- Door width: 36 in, outward-opening
Parking
- 2 accessible spaces of 30 total (main lot)
- 3 accessible spaces of 100 total (secondary lot)
- 2 accessible spaces of 58 total (third lot)
Hearing Accessibility
- Information in print
Soar at Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Minnewaska State Park Preserve sits on top of the Shawangunk Ridge, about 15 minutes from New Paltz. The sky lakes up here, Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting, are a striking shade of blue-green and surrounded by white cliffs and pine forest.
The park has a network of accessible carriage roads that date back to the 1800s when the ridge was dotted with grand resort hotels. Most of the roads are wide and well-maintained. Lake Minnewaska is visible from the main accessible path. If you can make the trip in Fall, this is a spot to prioritize.
Reservations are required for parking during peak season, so book ahead at the New York State Parks website before you go.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Outdoor Access
- Accessible paths: yes
- Trail inclination: very gentle slope
- Path width: over 32 inches
Restrooms (Visitor Center)
- Multi-stall accessible restroom
- Limited turning space: 45 in (below ADA standard of 60 in)
- Sink height: 34.75 in, automatic sensor
- Single-user accessible restroom also available
Parking
- 4 accessible spaces of 17 total
- Near entrance, obstacle-free route
Hearing Accessibility
- Closed captioning, print, and other resources
Visual Accessibility
- Braille, large print, audio guides, QR codes
Fly high with SOAR Experiences
SOAR stands for Specialized Outdoor Adaptive Recreation, and they’ve been running adaptive outdoor experiences in the Catskills for years. Their fleet of 30 Axis Trackchairs can handle terrain that a standard wheelchair simply can’t, which opens up trails and outdoor spaces that would otherwise be off-limits. They have no participation restrictions, and staff are trained to work with a wide range of disabilities.
Worth calling ahead before your visit to talk through what experiences are available and what works best for your needs.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Outdoor Access
- Accessible paths: yes
- Trail inclination: very gentle slope
- Path width: over 32 inches
Restrooms
- Single-user accessible restroom
- Door width: 34 in, opens inward
- Toilet height: 18 in, fixed grab bars
- Turning space: yes, over 60 in
Parking
- No designated accessible parking spaces confirmed
- Accessible route to entrance: yes
Hearing Accessibility
- Closed captioning, print, and other resources
Adaptive Equipment
- 30 Axis Trackchairs available
Step back in time at Historic Huguenot Street
Historic Huguenot Street in New Paltz is one of the oldest streets in America with its original stone houses still standing. The site dates to 1678 when a group of Huguenot settlers built their homes here after fleeing religious persecution in Europe.
The street is right in the middle of New Paltz village, so it’s easy to combine with lunch or a stop at Little Loaf Bakeshop nearby. Tours run seasonally, so check their website before visiting.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Outdoor Access
- Accessible paths: yes
- Trail inclination: very gentle slope
Restrooms
- Single-user accessible restroom
- Door width: 35 in, opens inward
- Toilet height: 17.5 in, fixed grab bars
Parking
- Secondary lot: 3 accessible spaces of 100 total
- Primary lot: no accessible spaces confirmed
- Confirm which lot to use when booking
Hearing Accessibility
- Information in print
Visual Accessibility
- Large print, QR codes
See the world's largest kaleidoscope
Inside a grain silo at Emerson Resort & Spa in Mt. Tremper, there’s a kaleidoscope so large you stand inside it. It’s been in the Guinness World Records since 1997, and their Kaleidoshow experience is something unique. You lie on the floor, look up at the ceiling, and watch 10 minutes of immersive light and video art play out above you. Tickets are only $5 per person, but are free if you’re staying at the resort (which is verified, too!)
The resort itself is worth spending time at beyond the kaleidoscope. There’s a spa, a restaurant, and the grounds are beautiful, especially in fall when the Catskill foliage is at its peak. It’s a good anchor for a full day in the Mt. Tremper area.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Entrance & Grounds
- Step-free entrances, multiple access points
- Flat outdoor paths throughout
- Ramp at Lodge entrance: very gentle slope, handrails available
Restrooms
- Multiple single-user accessible restrooms
- Lobby restroom: 33-inch door, 17.5-inch toilet, fixed grab bars
- Spa restroom: flat shower entry at 35 in, fixed shower seat
Parking
- 9 accessible spaces of 162 total
- Near entrance, obstacle-free route
Hearing Accessibility
- Information in print
Visual Accessibility
- Braille, large print, QR codes
Where to stay
Ulster County has 9 verified hotels ranging from full-service chains in Kingston to boutique properties, a glamping resort, and a working farm sanctuary. We highlight four of them below, but be sure to check them all out here to find the one that works for your specific needs.
Courtyard by Marriott Kingston
The Courtyard by Marriott sits right in Kingston, making it a great homebase for exploring Ulster County. You’re close to the waterfront, the historic Stockade District, and good restaurants.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Room 106
- Bed height: 21.75 in, medium mattress, no under-bed clearance
- Shower: flat entry, 58.5 in wide × 36 in deep (below ADA 60-in standard)
- Portable shower seat with backrest
- Showerhead height: 52 in
- Bathroom door: 33 in, opens inward, no contrast marking
- Toilet height: 18 in, fixed grab bars
- Sink height: 33.25 in, lever handle
- Knee clearance: 28.5 × 40 × 13 in
- Hearing features: door signaler, telephone amplifier, telephone signaler, visual fire alarm
Building
- Main entrance: automatic, 61 in wide
- Side entrance: manual, 34 in
- Elevator: 36-in door, 52 × 61 in interior (tight for larger power chairs)
- Lobby restroom: multi-stall, 60-in turning radius
- Pool lift available
- Pool lounge chairs: 12.5 in (transfer barrier)
Parking
- Data flagged for verification — call hotel to confirm
Equipment
- Can send equipment ahead: yes
- Cannot bring own bed
Hampton Inn Kingston
The The Hampton Inn is another reliable, accessible option in a great location. It's also a bit more of an affordable option. If you prefer accessible bathtubs over a roll-in shower, Hampton Inn Kingston is one to consider.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Room 301
- Bed height: 25 in, soft mattress, no under-bed clearance
- Bathroom door: 35 in, opens outward, lever handle
- Bathtub: low-entry with fixed seat opposite showerhead
- Showerhead height: 50.5 in
- Toilet height: 17.5 in, fixed grab bars
- Sink height: 34 in, lever handle
- Knee clearance: 29 × 62 × 23 in
- Hearing features: door signaler, telephone signaler, visual fire alarm
- No emergency cord in bathtub area
Building
- Automatic entrance door: 48 in
- Elevator: 42-in door, 51 × 80 in interior, mirror inside
- Pool lift available
- Pool lounge chairs: 11.5 in (transfer barrier)
- Pool shower cubicle depth: 30 in (insufficient)
Parking
- 4 accessible spaces of 81 total
- Near entrance, obstacle-free
Equipment
- Can send equipment ahead: yes
- Cannot bring own bed
AutoCamp Catskills
AutoCamp Catskills is a glamping resort just outside Woodstock with Airstream trailers and suites set in the woods, a clubhouse, fire pits, and that distinctly Catskills feeling of being surrounded by nature. If you want a bit more of a unique stay option, AutoCamp Catskills is the one.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Accessible Suite
- Bed height: 26 in, soft mattress, 14-in under-bed clearance (hoist possible)
- Bathroom: sliding door, 35 in wide
- Shower: flat entry, 48 in wide × 35 in deep (below ADA 60-in standard)
- Fixed shower seat, lateral to controls
- Showerhead height: 52.5 in
- Toilet height: 17.5 in, fixed grab bars
- Sink height: 33.75 in, lever handle
- No hearing features in room
Clubhouse
- Automatic push-button entrance, 37 in wide
- Seated-height front desk
- Clubhouse restroom: 31-in door (barrier) — use suite restroom
Parking
- 6 accessible spaces of 150 total
- Not near building entrance — route has obstacles
Equipment
- Can send equipment ahead: yes (implied by Emerson data)
Emerson Resort and Spa
The Emerson Resort and Spa in Mt. Tremper is the most full-service option in this guide. You’ve got a spa, a restaurant, an indoor pool, shops, and the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope all on one property. If you want a truly relaxing vacation without feeling the need to leave and explore, then this is the one for you.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Room 400
- Bed height: 26.5 in, firm mattress, 8-in under-bed clearance (hoist possible)
- Bathroom door: 34 in, opens inward, lever handle
- Shower: flat entry, 35-in entrance width (below ADA standard), portable shower seat
- Showerhead height: 50.5 in
- Toilet height: 17.75 in, fixed grab bars
- Sink height: 33.75 in, lever handle
- Hearing features: door signaler, telephone amplifier, visual fire alarm
Building
- Two step-free entrances
- Accessible hallways throughout
- Lodge restaurant: very gentle ramp, handrails, step-free seating
- Pool: steps and ladder only, no lift confirmed
- Pool lounge chairs: 11.5 in (transfer barrier)
Parking
- 9 accessible spaces of 162 total
- Near entrance, obstacle-free
Visual Accessibility
- Braille, large print, QR codes
Equipment
- Can send equipment ahead: yes
- Cannot bring own bed
Where to eat
Phoenicia Diner
The Phoenicia Diner is one of the most loved spots in the Catskills. It’s a 1950s-style diner with a hearty breakfast and lunch menu, using ingredients from local farms and Hudson Valley producers. Breakfast is served all day!
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Entrance & Dining
- Step-free entrance
- Step-free seating throughout
Restrooms
- Accessible single-user restroom
- Toilet with grab bars
Parking
- Accessible parking near entrance
Hearing Accessibility
- Information in print
Mi Rancho Alegre
Mi Rancho Alegre is a solid Mexican spot in Lake Katrine, just outside Kingston. It’s a family-friendly place with a salsa bar, generous portions, and the kind of menu that covers all the bases, tacos, quesadillas, fajitas. Good option if you’re staying in Kingston and want something casual and satisfying.
Check out the verified details below.
Accessibility details
Entrance & Dining
- Step-free entrance
- Step-free seating
Restrooms
- Accessible restroom with grab bars
Parking
- Accessible parking near entrance
Hearing Accessibility
- Information in print
Little Loaf Bakeshop
Little Loaf is a beloved New Paltz bakery with an assortment of great pastries and coffee. They have many vegan options, too, and more breakfast/lunch options if you want something more. It’s a local favorite and a perfect first stop before heading out to Minnewaska or Mohonk.
Accessibility details
Entrance & Dining
- Step-free entrance
- Step-free seating
Restrooms
- Accessible restroom with grab bars
Parking
- Accessible parking near entrance
Hearing Accessibility
- Information in print
Getting around
Ulster County Area Transportation (UCAT) operates a free public bus system throughout the county. They are accessible with ramps or lifts, dedicated tie-down areas, and trained drivers to assist if needed. Their routes connect Kingston, New Paltz, Ellenville, and other communities, so it is a cheap option to get around if you don't want to rent a car. Check our their website for route maps and schedules.
If you are flying into NYC and driving to Ulster County, there are rental options for adaptive vehicles. Check them out here.
Plan your visit without all the stress
Find hotels, things to do, and restaurants with trusted accessibility info
Explore Ulster CountyAll accessibility measurements were collected on-site by Wheel the World trained mappers in partnership with Visit Ulster County NY. Data reflects conditions at the time of each venue's most recent verification visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ulster County, NY wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Ulster County has over 29 verified accessible venues across hotels, activities, restaurants, and a campground. Kingston, New Paltz, Woodstock, and the surrounding area have step-free entrances, accessible trails, and accessible restrooms throughout. The terrain varies. The Catskills are mountainous but accessible paths at places like Mohonk Preserve, Minnewaska State Park, and the Ashokan Rail Trail make outdoor access genuinely possible.
Are there accessible hiking trails near Ulster County?
Yes. The Ashokan Rail Trail is 11 miles of flat, wide trail along the reservoir — excellent for wheelchair users. Minnewaska State Park Preserve and Mohonk Preserve both have accessible carriage roads with very gentle slopes. SOAR Experiences in Ellenville offers Axis Trackchairs for off-road terrain access.
Is Mohonk Preserve wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Mohonk Preserve has accessible paths with very gentle slopes, an accessible restroom, 11 accessible parking spaces, and one adaptive wheelchair available to borrow on-site. The Invacare Top End wheelchair is available for guests who need it. Staff can assist guests with visual disabilities.
Which Ulster County hotel is best for wheelchair users who need a roll-in shower?
The Hampton Inn Kingston and Courtyard by Marriott Kingston both have roll-in showers (35-inch flat entry at the Hampton, 58.5-inch wide flat entry at the Courtyard). Neither meets the full ADA standard of 60 inches wide — but the Courtyard's shower at 58.5 × 36 inches is the closest to compliant of any hotel we mapped in Ulster County.
How far is Ulster County from New York City?
Ulster County is less than 90 minutes from Manhattan by car. Kingston is about 100 miles north via the I-87 (New York State Thruway). New Paltz and Woodstock are similarly close. The region is also accessible by bus and train — contact UCAT for public transit options within the county.
What is there to do in Ulster County?
Quite a lot. Outdoor activities include accessible trails at Mohonk Preserve, Minnewaska State Park, and the Ashokan Rail Trail, plus adaptive outdoor experiences with SOAR Experiences. Cultural highlights include Historic Huguenot Street, the Borscht Belt Museum, Opus 40, the D&H Canal Historical Society, and the World's Largest Kaleidoscope. The Catskill Mountain Railroad runs scenic excursions, and Rail Explorers offers pedal-powered railbike trips. Woodstock, Kingston, and New Paltz all have accessible restaurants and shops worth exploring.
Does Ulster County have accessible transportation?
Yes. UCAT (Ulster County Area Transportation) operates a free public bus system connecting major communities throughout the county. Visit ucat.us for current routes and schedules.
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