We just wrapped our school spring break. As the spring approaches, the number of COVID cases has started to go down significantly. Vaccination is going on in full swing across the nation. Alameda County has finally moved to the orange tier. Even though people are getting vaccinated, we still have to take all the necessary precautions for all the activities so that we protect others as well as ourselves. As we have a wheelchair user in the family, we try to explore places that are wheelchair accessible. This Spring Break we decided to explore some lakes and parks around Alameda county as it is a very doable activity for a wheelchair user.
Some of the beautiful lakes in Alameda county which we visited are Lake Chabot, Lake Anza, Shadow cliff, Quarry lakes, and Del Valle. I am going to write about Lake Chabot which I liked the most and it is completely wheelchair accessible.
Lake Chabot is a very picturesque lake in Castro Valley close to Antony Chabot Regional Park. This place is a very popular destination for fishing, especially for little kids. The park has some scenic biking and hiking trails which are very accessible and kids friendly. This park provides a variety of opportunities for boat sailing. There are Rental boats and boat rides available in the Marina with various options of Kayaks, rowboats, canoes, pedal boats. You can also relax and do some people-watching in the delicious Marina cafe.
We went there for a relaxing hiking trip. As we have a wheelchair user with us we chose to enter from the West Shore trail which is closer to the accessible parking. The East and West shore trails are very scenic and you can take your own time to enjoy and hike. On the way, you will find some spots to take pictures with the beautiful backdrop of the East and West sides of the shores. It’s a very scenic view when the boats pass through. The trails also have access to the shores by stairs. The Marina area also has a fantastic view with colorful boats and multicolored flags. When the wind blows the site is very picturesque. There are some picnic tables and BBQ pits if you want to spend a relaxing afternoon. There is a lush green Golf course too adjacent to Lake Chabot which has breathtaking views overlooking Oakland hills.
♿️ Wheelchair Accessibility ♿️
- Thie park has accessible parking near the Entry Kiosk from Lake Chabot Blvd near Lake Chabot Marina
- There are some unpaved side trails in the wilderness which are a little difficult for a regular wheelchair. An all-terrain wheelchair may be useful
- There is a ramp to enter the Marina
- One of the fishing piers is Wheelchair Accessible
- There are accessible restrooms and picnic tables and restrooms near the Lake Chabot Marina parking lot.
- The hiking loop is completely accessible.
♿️ COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS ♿️
The Shelter in Place has eased now with the reopening of many recreational activities. However, it is absolutely essential to keep social distancing and safety procedures in mind. At no point should these be compromised.
- Always wear your face mask even if you are not getting out of the car.
- Avoid crowded areas if you are stepping out of the car
- Always remember to carry gloves, hand sanitizer, water, food.
- Do not forget to use the restroom before leaving your house as it is safer to avoid using public restrooms during this period
- Remember to wipe your crutch or mobility scooter handle or the wheelchair wheels every time you return from outdoors
- Do not leave your items unattended.
- While dining outside make sure you wipe your chairs if possible.
- Make sure to check the timings of the park due to Covid -19
- While walking or running make sure to keep a distance of 6 feet.
- follow the covid guidelines for Boat Rental.
