Ferris Wheel at The Wharf

Orange Beach, Alabama

January 2014



We had already driven 113 miles and completed two hikes in Alabama when it was time to drive the remaining 410 miles home. I saw the 122ft. tall Ferris Wheel in the distance and knew it was trouble. I knew the girls would want to stop for a ride if they saw it and I really wanted to start the long drive home. I didn't try to distract them, but I wasn't going to point it out either. I decided to just let the decision happen on it's own. We were almost past the ferris wheel and in the clear when both girls seemed to see it at the same time. Laurel started yelling, "FERRIS WHEEL" and Kellisa started screaming, "ME". I had already passed the turn in and had to do a u-turn. Despite the loss of time, I was glad we stopped because they both really had a great time. (More pictures)

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Alabama

Hike #2

January 2014

 
 
 

We had selected the Jeff Friend Trail because it was rated as "wheelchair accessible". We enjoyed the trail, but found it to be borderline accessible. With a little help, I think most people in a wheelchair could enjoy the pleasant loop trail with a couple short boardwalk sections. (More pictures and videos)

Mobile Bay Ferry

Alabama

January 2014

It was 29F, windy and the water was choppy, but we decided to take the Mobile Bay Ferry to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, our hiking destination in Alabama. Both kids were very excited and couldn't wait to get out of the car to experience the cold wind in their face and the spray of salt water coming over the side of the ferry. (More pictures)

Cheaha Mountain

Kellisa's 13th State Highpoint

Cheaha Mountain, AL

2,407ft.

August 2009

Everything I read stated that the summit was wheelchair accessible. Notice the stone stairs to the right of the sign. The actual highpoint is just beyond the stairs. Not a big deal for us, but I could see the stairs stopping some people in wheelchairs, especially if they don't have anyone with them that can help. Another case of able bodied people having no idea what "accessible" really means.

Summit pictures: