Every skier has unique goals. Some work to master the diamonds, others try to ski every weekend, and many simply want to get outside and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery. A variety of challenges affect a disabled skier’s goals.
Adaptive ski programs at ski areas throughout New York help children and adults of all abilities reach their goals and experience the joy of winter sports. Programs offer adaptive skiing instruction, equipment rental or loan, and enthusiastic support. For all programs, reservations must be made in advance.
The Adaptive Sports Foundation (ASF) at Windham Mountain is one of the most highly-recognized adaptive ski programs in the nation. The Adaptive Snowsports Program teaches adults and children, age 5 and older, from very first-timers to advanced skiers and snowboarders. Lessons include lift tickets and rental or loan of adaptive equipment. They’re available, by reservation, every day from December through March. Training is also provided to develop skills for teaching athletes with special needs. Some ASF volunteer instructors have disabilities as well.
Windham’s Adaptive Sports Center was designed as a completely accessible building. Students can navigate from the entrance, through the building, and out to the slopes without changing levels. The staff includes more than 200 volunteer instructors and around 50 indoor volunteers who serve lunch, maintain equipment, and supervise the playroom. The Center’s great room brings skiers and families together and provides a place to relax, share experiences, and network.
The ASF also offers a competition program for advanced adaptive skiers to learn fundamental and advanced racing skills. Team members can compete in Disabled Sports USA-sanctioned races throughout the season at Windham and other ski areas in the Northeast. You don’t need prior racing experience to compete in Level 1 of the Diana Golden Cup Race Series. The atmosphere is relaxed and racers are encouraged to do their best, but most importantly to have fun!
Another Catskills ski mountain with a strong adaptive snowsports program, Belleayre was voted a Top 10 Family Resort by Newsday readers. The brand-new lodge, the Adaptive Snowsports Center, is wheelchair accessible and conveniently located to allow visitors easy access to the trails. STRIDE Adaptive Sports programs at Catamount Ski Area in the Hudson Valley teach adaptive skiing and snowboarding every weekend into April.
At Greek Peak Mountain Resort in the Finger Lakes region, the Lovejoy Adaptive Training Center was specifically designed for accessibility and snow sports. It was named in honor of Dr. Robert M. Lovejoy, the program's first skier with total blindness, who promoted skiing programs for people with disabilities. Greek Peak offers reduced-price lift tickets for the Greek Peak Adaptive Ski Sunday program.
The Double H Ranch Adaptive Winter Sports Program offers children ages 6 through 18 who are dealing with chronic and life-threatening illnesses the opportunity to participate in winter sports in the beautiful Adirondacks. There is no charge, and equipment is provided. Activities include downhill and cross-country ski instruction, as well as snowboarding and snowshoeing lessons. Winter programs aim to teach children skills and provide an enjoyable experience for the whole family. More than 200 volunteer instructors and National Ski Patrol provide a 1:1 support ratio with students. Each child is encouraged to reach his or her full potential, while having fun. The Double H Ranch’s mountain has a chairlift, two ski trails, and miles of cross-country trails. Families can sit comfortably in the lodge as they monitor their children’s’ progress.
From Whiteface in the Adirondacks to Holiday Valley in western New York, adaptive sports programs across the state share the same goal: to make the excitement of snowsports available to everyone.