Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Accessible Spring Recreation Opportunities  

Boston — As part of its commitment to ensuring residents and visitors of all abilities can connect to nature through outdoor recreation, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced the spring programming schedule for its Universal Access Program (UAP). These programs provide equipment and staff support for adaptive and accessible recreation opportunities at DCR parks throughout the state, helping make public lands more accessible, welcoming, and inclusive for all. This spring’s programming includes hiking, boating, cycling, and golfing across the Massachusetts park system. 

UAP’s spring recreation events begin this month and are held in partnership with non-profit organizations and volunteers from across the state, who provide support and instruction for using adaptive equipment.  

“At DCR, we’re committed to ensuring our public lands are welcoming and accessible to all,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle.  “We want all our residents and visitors to experience the benefits of the outdoors and feel a true sense of belonging in these shared spaces. Thanks to our UAP team and our partners, we’ve helped thousands of people experience hiking a trail or paddling a kayak for the first time, creating lasting memories.” 

During April and May, April and May, free and low-cost adaptive programming will be offered at 13 DCR properties. Each activity is designed to accommodate a wide range of needs and adaptive equipment. Programs are open to individuals of all ages with any disabilities. Friends and family of participants are also encouraged to participate.  

DCR also supports adaptive camping needs at many of our campsites. A full list of accessible sites can be found on the DCR website. 

This year’s spring programs and other adaptive recreation options include:   

• Hiking: In partnership with Waypoint Adventures, UAP is offering group hikes at Middlesex Fells Reservation in Stoneham and Harold Parker State Forest in North Andover. Participants can expect day in the forest with views of various ponds and waterways. 
• Cycling: UAP is providing a range of cycling opportunities for people of all abilities throughout the state this spring. Waypoint Adventures is leading excursions at Boston’s Lower Neponset River Trail and Pope John Paul II Park Reservation. Additional cycling programs are being offered in partnership with All Out Adventures at the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail in Cheshire, Blackstone River Greenway in Blackstone, Norwottuck Rail Trail in Hadley, and Blackstone River Valley Heritage Center in Worcester. 
• Kayaking: In partnership with All Out Adventures, UAP is offering group kayaking tours of Hopkinton Reservoir at Hopkinton State Park, using individual and tandem kayaks. 
• Rowing: Venture downriver with UAP and our partners at Holyoke Rows. Visitors will launch from the Connecticut River Greenway State Park in Holyoke and venture down river with Holyoke Rows. Participants will choose between leisure rowing and competitive paddling activities. 
• Sailing: In partnership with Community Boating, participants will take part in adaptive sailing programs along Boston’s Charles River Esplanade. Programs includes introductory instruction followed by excursion opportunities for more experienced sailors. 

Additional adaptive recreation activities, including cycling, kayaking, paddleboarding and yoga, will be offered at Nickerson State Park in Brewster from May through October this year through Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers. Golf For All and the Massachusetts ParaGolfer Association are hosting adaptive golf programming at Ponkapoag Golf Course in Canton and Leo J. Martin Golf Course in Weston. Green access in Weston will be restricted due to ongoing repairs. 

Participants need to register in advance to take part in UAP programming. To register and view the full Spring Adaptive Program Schedule including program locations, dates and times visit the UAP website. Those interested in joining the mailing list to receive notifications of upcoming events and activities can call (413) 461-7126 or email DCR.UniversalAccess@mass.gov. 

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