This page, Adaptive Program Schedule, is offered by
Universal Access Program
Department of Conservation & Recreation

Adaptive Program Schedule

See a list of the current adaptive and accessible programming offered in state parks.

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A group of hikers gather in a circle at the edge of the woods before a hike

General information

The Universal Access Program (UAP) offers adaptive, accessible programming seasonally at state parks, pools, and rinks. We partner throughout the year with All Out Adventures, Easterseals Massachusetts, Holyoke Rows, Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers, and Waypoint Adventure to run our programs.

When public safety allows, our main winter program season runs from November through March, and our main summer season runs from June through September. Due to COVID-19, we are offering adaptive recreation programs on a limited capacity. If you would like to get on our mailing list to be notified of upcoming events and activities, please contact us.

A current release form is required for all of our programs, and you must pre-register. Get into the activity sooner when you arrive by bringing your release form filled out! To pre-register for an activity, in the event there is inclement weather, or if you need to cancel, please contact the providing organization listed for each program.

You must also meet the essential eligibility criteria for the activity. Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC) help you understand the skills you need to participate in our programs. For risk management considerations, everyone who attends our programs must meet these EEC. You can meet the EEC independently, or with the help of a caregiver (family member, friend, or PCA).

Each providing organization may adhere to their own COVID-19 protocols for in-person programming, including mask wearing and social distancing. Please check their website or inquire for more details when registering for a program.

Several organizations also offer adaptive programming at DCR locations on their own, sometimes with the use of DCR equipment. These are called supported programs. These supported programs may have their own requirements and release forms. Please contact the providing organization for more information about a supported program.

Additional Resources

Essential eligibility criteria for Universal Access Program participants

DCR UAP Participant Registration and Release Form (PDF 212.54 KB)

Hiking with Waypoint Adventures

Waypoint Adventure trip-leaders specialize in leading accessible adventure-education programs for youth and adults of all abilities. A small group hike with one of our staff is the perfect way to try an activity for the first time or just get out into nature and experience the serenity of the trail, river, or lake. It's also a great opportunity to meet new friends and socialize. You’ll benefit from our selection of adaptive equipment, receive instruction to meet any learning style, and be encouraged to reach your individual goals.

Pre-registration required.

You must fill out a release form and meet our essential eligibility criteria for hiking.

Date	Location	Time
September 15	Harold Parker State Forest, North Andover	10:00am-1:30pm
October 18	Chicopee State Park, Chicopee	10:00am - 1:30pm
October 23	Maudslay State Park, Newburyport	12:30pm - 3:30pm
November 15	Wampatuck State Park, Hingham	10:00 am- 1:30 pm

Cost: $20 per person. Cost flexible based on need. One parent/friend/PCA of program participant with a disability can attend at no charge.

Hiking programs are limited to 8 participants per program.

Pre-registration is required. Click here to register online. If you have any other questions, contact Brenda Kennedy Davies at bkdavies@waypointadventure.org or (413) 259-0009.

What to bring:

Small back pack or bag to carry your things and put your layers in.
Layers (dress for the weather): to keep cool, warm or rain jacket
Snacks/ lunch
Refillable Water bottle
Sun/bug protection (hat, glasses, lotion, long sleeve shirt, socks and long pants)
Lace-up sneakers or hiking boots

If Lost, Late or Cancelling: ASAP, call & text to alert us - Brenda: (413) 259-0009 or Michelle (781) 591-0811

After the Program: Please remember to do a tick check!

Hikers traveling on an accessible trail through the woods

Skating Program

Come join the fun at our adaptive skating programs in Holyoke and East Boston!

Lace up a pair of conventional skates or slide around the ice on your manual or power wheelchair. Ice sleds are also available to glide around—propel yourself with small hockey sticks or be pushed around the rink by a friend.

Depending on location, activities on the ice include obstacle courses, a tower of blocks for building up and crashing down, races, colorful balls and pucks to shoot around, power chair games, and gently competitive hockey matches.

Ice sleds, skate walkers, helmets, ice grippers, and ice skates are available.

Admission and equipment are provided free of cost.

Pre-registration is required.

Fitzpatrick Skating Rink

Holyoke, MA

Sundays, 11:30am–2:00pm

November 20, December 4, March 5, 12, and 26

To register email Kristen.Rhodes@mass.gov

Porrazzo Skating Rink

East Boston, MA

Tuesdays, 11:00am–1:30pm

November 9, December 7, January 18, February 15, March 15