Accessible Features at California State Parks | Fort Ross SHP | Definitions and Terms | Activity Descriptions


Overview

Fort Ross was established in 1812 by Russians as an outpost for sea otter hunters and a permanent trade base. A number of reconstructed buildings contain exhibits that help bring the Russian era in California to life. The park is 12 very winding miles north of Jenner at 19005 Coast Highway One. Phone (707) 847-3286 for more information.

Picnic Area

Accessible picnic sites are located off the main parking lot near the Visitor Center and inside the historic fort complex.

Trails

The Fort Trail is an ‘out-and-back’ accessible trail that is 0.31 miles each way that extends from the Visitor Center parking lot to the north and south entrances of the fort. The surface is concrete. The trail maybe more challenging for some users as it is uphill hike from the Fort to the visitor center. Generally, the trail slopes are less than 5% slopes with intermittent sections between 5% to 8% and one section for 30’ at 10%. Accessible parking is available at both ends of the trail.

The Call House Trail is an ‘out-and-back’ accessible trail that is 0.13 miles each way that branches off the Fort Trail through a grove of trees and ends at a picnic area. The surface is compacted soil. The trail maybe challenging for some users as it is uphill hike from picnic area to Fort Trail. Generally, the trail slopes are less than 5% slopes with intermittent sections between 5% to 10%. Accessible parking is available at the Visitor Center parking lot.

Trail Name Running Slope Cross Slope Trail Width Trail Surface
Fort Trail 3% Average 2% Average 5 FT Average Concrete
10% Maximum 2% Maximum 5 FT Minimum
Call House Trail 5% Average 2.7% Average 5 FT Average Soil
10% Maximum 4% Maximum 5 FT Minimum


Beach/Shore Access

A beach wheelchair is available. Phone (707) 847-3437 for more information.

Exhibits/Programs

The Visitor Center and Museum is accessible including parking, restrooms, and the paths throughout. The museum gives a good overview of the history of the site and its inhabitants, and is one of the most complete Russian, Alaskan, and Kashaya cultural museums north of San Francisco. Many items of interest for history enthusiasts, teachers, students, and tourists are available in the Visitor Center bookstore.

The Historic Fort Complex is a 0.3-mile hike from the Visitor Center via the Fort Trail. For those that cannot make the hike, one van accessible parking space is available near the south entrance of the fort. Inside the fort, the first floor of the Blockhouses, Official’s Quarters, Rotchev House, Magazin, Kuskov House, and Chapel are usable. A wheelchair accessible ramp on the back side of the Kuskov House provides access to the second floor. Restrooms within the fort are accessible.


To request an update to this page, please contact the Accessibility Division at access@parks.ca.gov or (916) 445-8949.