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Accessible Features in State Parks > Año Nuevo

Año Nuevo State Park

Overview
All visitors are welcome at Año Nuevo State Park, site of one of the largest mainland breeding colonies for the northern elephant seal. The Año Nuevo Coast Natural Preserve has been established to protect the elephant seals along with many other animals such as otters, California sea lions, coyotes, cormorants, terns and more. During the elephant seal breeding season, daily access to the Natural Preserve is available only via guided walks. The Año Nuevo Equal Access Program provides an accessible opportunity for all visitors at the State Park to understand, appreciate, and participate in the park's cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Call (650) 879-2025 for more information.

Picnic Area
A generally accessible picnic area, adjacent to the main parking lot, makes for a perfect quick stop before exploring the Año Nuevo Point Trail. An additional accessible picnic area on the west side of the Marine Education Center boasts spectacular views of Año Nuevo Bay, and includes accessible spotting scopes. Accessible parking for both picnic areas is located in the main parking lot. Route of travel between the parking lot and picnic areas is accessible; restrooms at the main parking lot are generally accessible.

Trails
The Año Nuevo Point Trail is an “out-and back’ accessible trail that is 1.3 miles each way along coastal bluffs. Hikers are treated to spectacular view of the rugged coastline, sandy beaches and wildlife, with four overlooks that allow viewing of northern elephant seals. The surface is compacted soil. A portion of this trail is restricted to guided tour only during the breeding season. The trailhead is located adjacent to the main visitor center parking lot. The trail is generally flat at less than 5% slopes with intermittent sections between 5% to 7%. An accessible picnic area with view scope is located near the trailhead next to the visitor center.

The Equal Access Boardwalk Trail is a 0.27-mile boardwalk that traverses over dunes and coastal scrub along the beach and ends at an observation deck. From the observation deck, visitors are able to view the northern elephant seals. Access to this trail is restricted to guided tour only during the breeding season. More information, including how to arrange transportation to this trail, is available under Equal Access Guided Walk Program.



Accessible Trail Data
Trail Name Running Slope Cross Slope Trail Width Trail Surface
Año Nuevo Point Trail 3% Average 2% Average 6 FT Average soil
8% Maximum 5% Maximum 4 FT Minimum

Beach/Shore Access
Beach wheelchairs are available. Call (650) 879-2025 for more information.

Exhibits/Programs
Marine Education Center: Historic barns house a theater, exhibit area, and store. The barns are generally accessible with occasional short sloped areas of historic flooring. Assistance may be needed with the side ramp or entry. Exhibits are accessibly designed. The theater has space to allow wheelchair access. Accessible parking is located in the main parking lot. Route of travel between the parking lot and the Marine Education Center is accessible; restrooms at the main parking lot are generally accessible.

Equal Access Guided Walk Program: During the elephant seal breeding season, December 15th through March 31st, visitors with a mobility disability may participate on a guided walk within the elephant seal area on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and on Special Holiday Mondays. A wheelchair accessible van transports visitors to an accessible boardwalk that leads to where the elephant seals are. Every person in need of mobility assistance may bring up to two people on the tour. Reservations are required and may be made starting from October 20th until tours are full. Reservations can be made with ReserveCalifornia at (800) 444-4445.

From April 1st to November 30th, Equal Access tours are organized every other Saturday. Visit Equal Access Tours for more information.

Other Information
Service Animals: Service animals are welcome at Año Nuevo State Park. At times, service animals may be restricted from full access as necessary to ensure the well-being of wildlife. If you intend to bring your service animal to Año Nuevo, please call (650) 879-2025 ahead of time to receive updates on where you may go with your service animal.


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For more information: access@parks.ca.gov | Phone: (916) 445-8949 | Fax: (916) 449-8966
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