Adaptive program schedule

See a list of the current adaptive recreation programming offered in state parks, swimming pools, and ice skating rinks.

Winter 2025–2026 adaptive recreation fun!

Check out our Winter 2025–2026 Program Schedule for adaptive recreation fun this season!  We offer a variety of activities including adaptive cycling, ice skating, hiking, kicksledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sit-skiing and gentle hockey (weather permitting). 

General information

DCR’s Universal Access Program (UAP) is dedicated to providing outdoor recreation opportunities in Massachusetts state parks for visitors of all abilities. Accessibility is achieved through site improvements, specialized adaptive recreation equipment, and accessible recreation programs.

The Universal Access Program (UAP) offers adaptive, accessible programming seasonally at state parks, pools, and ice skating rinks. We partner throughout the year with All Out Adventures, Easterseals Massachusetts, Holyoke Rows, and Waypoint Adventure to provide programs statewide. 

Our structured programs feature adaptive equipment, professional staff, and instruction and support. Friends, family members, and companions are encouraged to take part in our programs alongside participants with disabilities.

UAP’s Program Seasons: Our Spring Program season runs from April through May, our Summer Program season runs from June through August, our Fall Program season runs from September through October, and our Winter Program season runs from November through March. 

Contact List: If you would like to be added to our contact list to be notified of upcoming events and activities, please email us. 

Release Forms and Pre-Registration: A current release form is required for all our programs, and you must pre-register with the organization running the program. To pre-register, cancel, or check-in about inclement weather, please contact the providing organization listed for each program.

Essential Eligibility Criteria and Program Attendance Guidelines: You must also meet the essential eligibility criteria (ECC) and follow our program attendance guidelines (PAG) for the activity. The EEC helps you understand the skills you need to participate in our programs. For risk management considerations, everyone who attends our programs must complete a release form and meet these EEC, including caregivers and group staff. You can meet the EEC independently, or with the help of a caregiver (family member, friend, or PCA).

If you have concerns about your ability to meet the EEC or PAG, please speak with the organization leading the activity. If you have general questions or concerns, please contact us by email [e-mail] or phone at [phone].

Supported Programs: 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.

Accommodation Requests: If you need an accommodation at a program, like an ASL interpreter or a sighted guide, please let the program provider know when you're registering. Please allow at least two weeks (14 days) advance notice for accommodation requests. Program providers may not be able to fulfill last-minute requests.

Adaptive Cycling

Herter Park, Artesani Playground—Tandem Cycling

1255 Soldiers Field Road, Brighton, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible tandem cycling in Brighton! During this program, run by our partner Waypoint Adventure, small groups work together to cycle the back roads and bike paths of Massachusetts. Participants are encouraged to bring lunch and socialize on the trail and during breaks.

We have a variety of bikes that offer different amounts of support. We will match up two riders (a Captain and a Stoker). The Captain will be the leader, and the Stoker is the other half of the team, who works with the Captain to enjoy the adventure of tandem cycling. Some of our bikes are more traditional upright bicycles that require teamwork and balance. We also have other models that are side-by-side or recumbent, low to the ground tandems. Some have two wheels and require more balance while others are quite sturdy with three wheels and supportive seats.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration ends November 5, 2025.

Day and Time: Friday, November 7, 2025; 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need.

To Register:Visit waypoint-adventure.jumbula.com

Questions: Email [e-mail]

Adaptive Ice Skating

Henry J. Fitzpatrick Rink—Adaptive Ice Skating

575 Maple Street, Holyoke, MA

Join the Universal Access Program and Holyoke Rows for accessible skating, socializing, and fun in Holyoke!

Use your wheelchair, an ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers, or conventional skates on the ice. Spin, slide and play gently competitive games! There will be pucks and colorful balls to shoot around, obstacle courses, races, and a tower of blocks to crash down!

The ice skating rink is cold, so please dress warmly and bring your winter coat, gloves or mittens, and a hat!

This program is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. All are encouraged to join on the ice to help support! Yaktrax (ice grippers) are available in the lobby for those that can’t skate.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Sign up for a one-hour timeslot. You must request to register by noon two days before the program.

Groups: Maximum group size is 15, including staff.  All groups must submit a sign-in sheet and release forms one week in advance.

Days and Times: Sundays, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.

• November 16, 2025
• December 7, 2025
• January 18, 2026
• February 15, 2026
• March 1, 2026

Cost: FREE (entry & equipment are free-of-charge)

Questions & To Register: Email [e-mail] or call [phone].

Porrazzo Memorial Rink—Adaptive Ice Skating 

199 Coleridge Street, East Boston, MA

Join the Universal Access Program and Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers for accessible skating, socializing, and fun in East Boston!

Use your wheelchair, an ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers, or conventional skates on the ice. Spin, slide and play gently competitive games! There will be pucks and colorful balls to shoot around, obstacle courses, races, and a tower of blocks to crash down!

The ice skating rink is cold, so please dress warmly and bring your winter coat, gloves or mittens, and a hat!

This event is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. All are encouraged to join on the ice to help support! Yaktrax (ice grippers) are available in the lobby for those that can’t skate.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Sign up for a one-hour timeslot.   You must request to register by noon two days before the program.

Groups: Maximum group size is 15, including staff. All groups must submit a sign-in sheet and release forms one week in advance.

Days and Times: Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

• December 10, 2025
• January 7, 2026
• February 4, 2026
• March 4, 2026

Cost: FREE (entry & equipment are free-of-charge)

Questions & To Register: Email [e-mail] or call [phone].

Charles J. Buffone Rink—Adaptive Ice Skating

284 Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible skating, socializing, and fun in Worcester!  This program is run by our partner, All Out Adventures (AOA).

Use your wheelchair, an ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers, or conventional skates on the ice. Spin, slide and play gently competitive games! There will be pucks and colorful balls to shoot around, obstacle courses, races, and a tower of blocks to crash down!

The ice skating rink is cold, so please dress warmly and bring your winter coat, gloves or mittens, and a hat!

This event is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. All are encouraged to join on the ice to help support! Yaktrax (ice grippers) are available in the lobby for those that can’t skate.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Sign up for a one-hour timeslot.  You must request to register by noon two days before the program.

Groups: Maximum group size is 15, including staff.  All groups must submit a sign-in sheet and release forms one week in advance.

Days and Times: Tuesdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

• December 16, 2025
• January 13, 2026
• February 10, 2026
• March 10, 2026

Cost: FREE (entry & equipment are free-of-charge)

Questions & To Register: [e-mail] or call [phone].

Peter W. Foote Vietnam Veterans Memorial Rink—Adaptive Ice Skating

1267 South Church Street, North Adams, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible skating, socializing, and fun in North Adams! This program is run by our partner, All Out Adventures (AOA).

Use your wheelchair, an ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers, or conventional skates on the ice. Spin, slide and play gently competitive games! There will be pucks and colorful balls to shoot around, obstacle courses, races, and a tower of blocks to crash down!

The ice skating rink is cold, so please dress warmly and bring your winter coat, gloves or mittens, and a hat!

This event is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. All are encouraged to join on the ice to help support! Yaktrax (ice grippers) are available in the lobby for those that can’t skate.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Sign up for a one-hour timeslot. You must register by noon the day before the program. 

Groups: Maximum group size is 15, including staff. 

Days and Times: Thursdays, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

• December 18, 2025
• January 15, 2026
• February 12, 2026
• March 5, 2026

Cost: FREE (entry & equipment are free-of-charge); AOA suggested donation—$5/person

Questions & To Register: Register with AOA online at alloutadventures.org, call (413) 584‑2052, or email [e-mail].

Gardner Veterans Rink—Adaptive Ice Skating

45 Veterans Drive, Gardner, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible skating, socializing, and fun in Gardner! This program is run by our partner, All Out Adventures (AOA).

Use your wheelchair, an ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers, or conventional skates on the ice. Spin, slide and play gently competitive games! There will be pucks and colorful balls to shoot around, obstacle courses, races, and a tower of blocks to crash down!

The ice skating rink is cold, so please dress warmly and bring your winter coat, gloves or mittens, and a hat!

This event is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. All are encouraged to join on the ice to help support! Yaktrax (ice grippers) are available in the lobby for those that can’t skate.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Sign up for a one-hour timeslot. You must register by noon the day before the program.

Groups: Maximum size is 15, including staff.

Days and Times: Fridays, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

• January 9, 2026
• January 23, 2026
• February 6, 2026
• February 20, 2026

Cost: FREE (entry & equipment are free-of-charge); AOA suggested donation—$5/person

Questions & To Register: Register with AOA online at alloutadventures.org, call (413) 584‑2052, or email [e-mail]

Arthur R. Driscoll Memorial Rink—Adaptive Ice Skating

272 Elsbree Street, Fall River, MA

Join the Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures (AOA) for accessible skating, socializing, and fun in Fall River!

Use your wheelchair, an ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers, or conventional skates on the ice. Spin, slide and play gently competitive games! There will be pucks and colorful balls to shoot around, obstacle courses, races, and a tower of blocks to crash down!

The ice skating rink is cold, so please dress warmly and bring your winter coat, gloves or mittens, and a hat!

This event is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. All are encouraged to join on the ice to help support! Yaktrax (ice grippers) are available in the lobby for those that can’t skate.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Sign up for a one-hour timeslot.   You must request to register by noon two days before the program.

Groups: Maximum size is 20 (including staff). All groups must submit a sign-in sheet and release forms one week in advance of the program.

Days and Times: Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

• January 28, 2026
• February 25, 2026

Cost: FREE (entry & equipment are free-of-charge)

Questions & To Register: Email [e-mail] or call 
[phone].

John G. Asiaf Memorial Rink—Adaptive Ice Skating

702 Belmont Street, Brockton, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible skating, socializing, and fun in Brockton! This program is run by our partner, All Out Adventures (AOA).

Use your wheelchair, an ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers, or conventional skates on the ice. Spin, slide and play gently competitive games! There will be pucks and colorful balls to shoot around, obstacle courses, races, and a tower of blocks to crash down!

The ice skating rink is cold, so please dress warmly and bring your winter coat, gloves or mittens, and a hat!

This event is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. All are encouraged to join on the ice to help support! Yaktrax (ice grippers) are available in the lobby for those that can’t skate.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Sign up for a one-hour timeslot.  You must register by noon the day before the program. 

Groups: Maximum size is 15, including staff.

Days and Times: Sundays, 12:20–2:10 p.m.

• February 1, 2026
• February 22, 2026
• March 8, 2026

Cost: FREE (entry & equipment are free-of-charge); AOA suggested donation—$5/person

Questions & To Register: Register with AOA online at alloutadventures.org, call (413) 584‑2052, or email [e-mail].

Adaptive Outdoor Programs: Hiking, Kicksledding, Snowshoeing, Cross-Country Skiing, Sit-Skiing, & Gentle Hockey

Walden Pond State Reservation—Hiking

915 Walden Street, Concord, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible small group hiking at historic Walden Pond in Concord! During this program, run by our partner Waypoint Adventure, you’ll meet at the visitor’s center, hike in the woods next to the pond, and stop along the way for a picnic lunch and natural interpretation from Walden Pond park staff.

You’ll benefit from our selection of adaptive equipment, receive instruction to meet any learning style, and be encouraged to reach your individual goals.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration ends November 4, 2025.

Day and Time: Thursday, November 6, 2025; 10 a.m.–1 p.m. 

Meet at: Visitors Center

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need.

To Register:Visit waypoint-adventure.jumbula.com

Questions: Email [e-mail]

Great Brook Farm State Park—Hiking

165 North Road, Carlisle, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible small group hiking in Carlisle! During this program, run by our partner Waypoint Adventure, you’ll see stunning forests and ponds/waterways, eat lunch, and connect with new people. 

You’ll benefit from our selection of adaptive equipment, receive instruction to meet any learning style, and be encouraged to reach your individual goals.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration ends November 13, 2025.

Day and Time: Saturday, November 15, 2025; 10 a.m.–1 p.m.  

Meet at: Main Parking Lot off North Road near the barn/ice cream (both closed seasonally)

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need. One parent/friend/PCA of program participant with a disability may attend at no charge (see Waypoint’s Registration page for details).

To Register:Visit waypoint-adventure.jumbula.com

Questions: Email [e-mail]

Blue Hills Reservation—Hiking

860 Hillside Street, Milton, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible small group hiking in Milton! During this program, run by our partner Waypoint Adventure, you’ll see stunning forests and ponds/waterways, eat lunch, and connect with new people.

You’ll benefit from our selection of adaptive equipment, receive instruction to meet any learning style, and be encouraged to reach your individual goals.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration ends 
December 11, 2025.

Day and Time: Saturday, December 13, 2025; 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Meet at: Blue Hills-Houghton’s Pond Parking Lot (860 Hillside Street, Milton, MA)

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need.

To Register:Visit waypoint‑adventure.jumbula.com

Questions: Email [e-mail]

Leo J. Martin Ski Track—Adaptive Cross-Country Skiing

190 Park Road, Weston, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible cross-country skiing in Weston! During this program, run by our partner Waypoint Adventure, you will hit the trails using a kicksled, sit-ski, snowshoes, ice grippers or cross-country skis. You’ll receive instruction to meet any learning style and be encouraged to reach your individual goals.

Snow is made on site and trails are groomed daily!

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration ends two days before the program.

Days and Times: Individual sessions between 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

• Wednesday, January 14, 2026
• Wednesday, January 21, 2026
• Sunday, January 25, 2026
• Wednesday, January 28, 2026
• Wednesday, February 4, 2026
• Sunday, February 8, 2026
• Wednesday, February 11, 2026
• Wednesday, February 18, 2026
• Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need.

To Register: Visit waypoint‑adventure.jumbula.com

Questions: Email [e-mail]

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible winter outdoor recreation in Millers Falls! This program is run by our partner All Out Adventures (AOA).

Enjoy the winter woods with hiking, outdoor ice skating, cross-country skiing, sit cross-country skiing, ice sled skating, kicksledding, or snowshoeing. Activities offered may vary depending upon weather conditions. Instruction, adaptive equipment, and assistance provided.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. You must register for a timeslot by noon the day before the program.

Days and Times: Saturdays, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Timeslots: 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.; 12–1:30 p.m.; 1:30–3:00 p.m.

• January 17, 2026
• January 24, 2026
• January 31, 2026
• February 7, 2026
• February 14, 2026
• February 21, 2026
• February 28, 2026
• March 7, 2026

Meet At: Wendell State Forest Headquarters, at 392 Wendell Rd in Millers Falls.

Cost: FREE; AOA suggested donation—$5/person

Questions & To Register: Register with AOA online at alloutadventures.org, call (413) 584‑2052, or email [e-mail]

DAR State Forest—Adaptive Outdoor Winter Recreation

78 Cape Street, Goshen, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible winter outdoor recreation in Goshen! This program is run by our partner All Out Adventures (AOA).

Enjoy the winter woods with hiking, cross-country skiing, sit-skiing, kick sledding, or snowshoeing. Activities offered may vary depending upon weather conditions. Instruction, adaptive equipment, and assistance provided.

There is an accessible warming hut on site.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. You must register by noon the day before the program.

Days and Times: Thursdays, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

• January 29, 2026
• February 5, 2026
• February 19, 2026

Cost: FREE; AOA suggested donation—$5/person

Questions & To Register: Register with AOA online at alloutadventures.org, call (413) 584‑2052, or email [e-mail]

Winter 2025–2026 supported programs

Several organizations also offer adaptive programming at DCR locations on their own, sometimes with the use of DCR equipment. These are called supported programs. Each providing organization has their own requirements for programming, including release forms, EEC, and program attendance guidelines. Please contact the providing organization (by phone, email or by checking their website) for further information and to register.

Sled Hockey with Spaulding Adaptive Sports

The Sears Adaptive Hockey program at Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC) offers both recreational and competitive youth and adult sled hockey for individuals of all abilities. Practices are led by USA Hockey certified coaches and consist of individual coaching, skills training, small games, and scrimmages.

Where: Allied Veterans Memorial Rink, 65 Elms Street, Everett, MA

Questions & to Register: Visit the SASC online calendar, call (877) 976‑7272 or email [e-mail]

Adaptive Downhill Ski Lessons at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area

Adaptive downhill skiing lessons are offered by Wachusett Mountain Ski Area. Wachusett Mountain staff are trained in working with skiers with physical, cognitive, hearing, visual, and developmental disabilities. You need to make a reservation to schedule an adaptive lesson. Cost varies by the type of lesson, the type of area ticket needed, and the equipment required.

For more information or to schedule a lesson, visit the Wachusett Adaptive Lessons website, email [e-mail] or call (978) 464‑2300, ext. 3308.

Last updated:	May 23, 2025