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Accessible Outing with Disabled Hikers and Bird Alliance of Oregon
Join Disabled Hikers and Bird Alliance of Oregon as we celebrate Disability Pride Month with an accessible wildlife viewing outing at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden! We will take a short stroll and roll through the gardens to the lake. Learn accessible birding tips from Bird Alliance of Oregon staff and a volunteer while enjoying this oasis in the city with other people who are disabled. We welcome all people who are disabled, neurodivergent, and/or chronically ill.
Masks are strongly encouraged. If you can wear a mask, we ask that you do. See below for trail information and here for a more detailed guide of Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden.
Where: Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, 5801 SE 28th Avenue, Portland, Oregon When: Sunday July 18, 2021 at 10 a.m.
A photo of a wheelchair accessible bridge surrounded by wetlands at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. Photo by Syren Nagakyrie
Sign Up to Join Us at Crystal Springs!
Join Disabled Hikers and Bird Alliance of Oregon as we celebrate Disability Pride Month with an accessible wildlife viewing outing at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden.
All of the main trails in the garden are wheelchair accessible. We will travel to the lake, where we will stop to observe the birds and wildlife. The paved path travels 0.1 mile with a 2-5% grade to the bridge over the lake. There are a couple of pull-out areas for wheelchair users. Beyond the bridge, the path becomes firm, compact pea gravel and forms a loop to the restrooms and back to the bridge. The total length of the loop is 0.5 mile. There are additional options for loops through the gardens, along the ponds, and past the waterfalls which are also wheelchair accessible. Benches are placed throughout the garden. We will adapt the length of the outing to suit everyone’s needs.
Amenities
There is one all user accessible restroom and two gendered restrooms with stalls. Water fountains are available. The gardens are generally shaded except for the bridge over the lake. Please bring appropriate sun protection.
Pets
Service dogs are always welcome. Pets are discouraged to reduce potential conflict and accessibility issues. If you must bring your pet, they should be well-socialized and on a secure leash at all times.
Cost
Sliding scale $0 – $25
Parking
Paved parking area with two van accessible parking spots and space for approximately 30 vehicles. Overflow parking is available at the Reed College West parking area.
Transit
The closest Trimet bus stops are 6400 (Westbound Bus 19) and 7286 (Eastbound Bus 19) approximately 1 block away. Bus route 19 is accessible from the Orange Line.
Entrance Fee
The $5 entrance fee is waived for this event!
About Disabled Hikers
Disabled Hikers is an inclusive disability-led and disability-centered organization grounded in principles of disability justice.
We welcome anyone who needs a group of supportive, slow moving hikers. We also welcome those who are new to hiking and supportive friends and family. The group hikes together; we adapt the hike to match the needs of everyone present, rest when needed, and make decisions about when to turn back as a group.
All of our events begin with a moment to honor the land and the Indigenous peoples, followed by group introductions. There is never any pressure to share anything, and if you want to be anonymous that is okay too.
Other things to keep in mind: Please read the hike description. Trails are chosen to be as enjoyable as possible for the most folks, but only you can decide if a hike is appropriate for you.
Please do not offer anyone advice or assistance without asking first.
If you have questions at any time, please ask. We’re here for you!
Two images, the one on the left showing a paved area with a bench next to a wooden flat bridge. The second a paved pathway shaded by trees. Photos by Syren Nagakyrie
