+Accessibility

Accessible Parking Accessible Parking, along with all parking, must be purchased in advance online and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis with very limited availability. In order to access ADA accessible parking, please purchase a regular parking pass online for the night you wish to attend. When you arrive at the Trail, follow the map and driving directions on parking pass to the traffic check point, present your state-issued placard or plates along with your purchased parking pass to the traffic/parking attendant, then follow staff instruction and signs to designated ADA parking area. Vehicles must display a state-issued handicapped plate or placard and the person to whom the placard or plate is issued must be present in the vehicle. Disabled Veterans receive FREE parking on any night with their credentials. Accessible parking is limited and first-come-first-served. Parking lots open at 5:30 pm nightly.

ADA Entrance: The wheelchair accessible entrance is located at Lou Neff Road and Barton Springs Road. This area allows extra space and paved terrain for entry. Look for the wheelchair signs above the entrance lanes or ask a staff member to direct you to the appropriate area. Accessible Entry Gate & Time: Guests with disabilities (plus up to 3 companions) will be permitted to enter the Trail as early as 6:00 pm on December 10-23 to enjoy the Trail prior to general admission entry (GA ticket required Dec 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23). However, should your party wish to enjoy the ZIP Fast Pass amenities such as access to the Zilker Lounge where you'll find cookies, cocoa, and comfortable seating, a separate ZIP Fast Pass ticket purchase is required. For the smallest crowds, we recommend coming on a week day during the week of 12/10.

Routes: The majority of the Trail of Lights is defined by Lou Neff Road, a paved pathway surrounding Zilker Park. Some areas of the Trail are located on natural terrain, so if it rains, there may be mud in some places. Please be prepared for weather and long distances.

ADA Accessibility Center: The main Accessibility Center will be located at the Trail Guide Information booth just inside the Accessible Entrance on Lou Neff near Candy Cane Lane. Look for the Wheelchair Icon signage. You can visit any Trail Guide Information booth for questions related to accessibility. Our Access Center services include, but are not limited to:

  • Answers to questions specific to the Accessibility Program
  • Information relevant to our patrons in need of accommodations
  • Requests for accessibility accommodations
  • Power outlets for recharging powered mobility devices

Patrons with Mobility Limitations: The Festival is wheelchair accessible but is a large venue with great distances between activities and attractions. It is outdoors and across city streets and pathways. Some travel is over natural terrain and terrain designed for motor vehicles. If it should rain, there could be mud.

The Trail does not provide personal care, golf cart rides, or push service of any kind or wheelchairs for rent or loan. Wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and three or four-wheeled scooters are allowed only for use by patrons with mobility disabilities.

Service Animals: The Trail of Lights permits the use of service animals in compliance with applicable laws. Individuals using service animals shall be solely responsible for such animals, including for any and all claims or losses to third parties arising from or relating to such animals.

"Comfort," "Therapy," or "Emotional Support" animals do not meet the definition of a service animal and shall not be permitted on festival grounds.

All service animals must be harnessed, leashed or tethered, unless these devices interfere with the service animal's work or if the individual's disability prevents them from using these devices. Individuals who cannot use such devices must maintain control of the animal through voice, signal, or other effective controls. The Trail of Lights shall at all times, have the right to deny the use of service animals if (i) the animal is out of control and (ii) the handler cannot or does not regain control of the service animal. The Austin Trail of Lights shall not be responsible for any such service animal. At all times, the service animal must be under the care and supervision of the individual. Failure to comply may result in removal from the Trail at the sole discretion of staff. No refunds or remedies shall be given to attendees ejected from the Trail and/or denied entry due to their service animal's behavior, or for lost or stolen service animals. Pets and/or animals are prohibited in all other circumstances and will not be allowed in the Trail.