Disabled Photographer Project & How Accessible Is Accessible Series
Founder Denise Vasquez
Have you ever imagined having to hike up mountains or wander deep into forests, in order to photograph waterfalls? Some places require that, but the good news is, Wheelchair Accessible trails like Madison Falls do exist!
Madison Falls is a 60-foot waterfall located in Olympic National Park. There is Accessible parking, right at the beginning of the trail which is across the road from the Elwha River.
The calming sounds of water flowing down the river, invited me to cross the road to take a closer look. The river glistened and the sun shined brightly on the river as it moved quickly through the mountains and the trees. It was a little windy, but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the beautiful surroundings, while photographing some long exposure moments.
TIP: If you'd like to photograph some long exposure moments during the day, especially in bright sunlight, make sure you have a Tripod (you can purchase one like I have from PROMASTER https://promaster.com/?sscid=c1k7_1kem& ), make sure your camera and lens are in Manual Mode, and make sure to put a ND (Neutral Density) Filter on your lens. It's easier to focus before putting the ND Filter on your lens. I have a 3-stop, 6-stop, and a 10-stop. I like using my 10-stop ND filter when photographing waterfalls during the day . You can purchase Neutral Density filters here: HOYA FILTERS https://hoya-filter.eu/en/?sscid=71k8_8jbd1&
Denise Vasquez Photography ©2024
The trail is paved, 0.2 mile round trip, out and back, and there is a slight elevation gain of 26 feet. There is an Accessible vault restroom at the beginning of the trail, and as you hike to the falls, be mindful for tree branches, roots, and fallen rocks. At the end of the trail, you’ll find a wooden fence and a bench where you can sit, meditate, and photograph some moments.
Denise Vasquez Photography ©2024
The trail can get busy and there is not a lot of room at the viewpoint, so I recommend getting there early in the morning or late afternoon. Watch my TikTok video to see more https://www.tiktok.com/@denisevasquezphotography/video/7393033947308887338?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7381176150784509470
When we headed back to the parking area, I noticed an open field with horses and mules. The mules are used to help carry supplies into the back country wilderness, for the crew working on trails where motorized vehicles are not permitted. Do not pet or feed the animals and leave no trace.
Whenever I blog about my project, I make sure to mention the FREE Lifetime ACCESS PASS every chance I get, because too many people that I've mentioned it to over the years, did not know about it! The ACCESS PASS is available to disabled people, you can learn about it in my blog here https://www.denisevasquezphotography.com/post/the-national-park-access-pass and inquire about it at the entry gate or at the visitor center.
I started The Disabled Photographer Project and How Accessible Is Accessible Series over six years ago while I was in a wheelchair, using rolling walker and from time to time I’m still using my walking sticks, because personally I’ve discovered while visiting the parks, that many places that are rated accessible or “Easy”, are usually not for me!
Denise Vasquez Photography ©2024
I trust that my research, area exploration, and personal experience sharing have been beneficial! I initiated this project in 2017, more than seven years ago. Through my journey, I have come to realize the importance of revisiting locations multiple times to provide updated information. This not only benefits me but also aids individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or those with limited mobility. Moreover, it helps raise awareness among trail users and park staff.
If you appreciate my blog and find the content in my blogs, TikToks, and YouTube videos useful, you can show your support for my project by making a donation. Any amount is welcome as every contribution, no matter how small, is valuable. Your donation will assist in funding my time, research, planning, travel, gas, accommodation, scouting, photography, memory cards, hard drives, and the creation of content shared in YouTube videos, blogs, Instagram posts, TikToks, and more.
Thank you for backing The Disabled Photographer Project! If you wish to contribute, you can make a donation here:
If you are considering hiring me for consultations, photography, content creation, workshops, or panels, please don't hesitate to reach out via the contact form on my website. Sustaining this project requires significant investments of time, money, and effort. I have poured my heart, soul, and resources into it, and the knowledge that my work is creating an impact motivates me to continue.
Thank you for supporting The Disabled Photographer Project! If you’d like to make a contribution, you can DONATE here:
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I engage in affiliate marketing whereby I receive funds through the sale of goods or services on or through this website.
I may also accept advertising and sponsorships from commercial businesses or receive other forms of advertising compensation. Affiliate Links are listed here:
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