Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Accessible Winter Recreation Opportunities

BOSTON — The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced its Universal Access Program’s (UAP) winter programming schedule to ensure that every Massachusetts resident can experience and enjoy the outdoors year-round. The programming adapts some of New England’s most popular outdoor wintertime activities to the varying abilities and needs of all park visitors. This year’s winter lineup includes adaptive skiing, skating, snowshoeing, hiking, and sledding, running now through March. 

DCR partners with non-profit organizations and volunteers across the state to provide specialized equipment and support personnel at program locations throughout the state each winter. 

“Our outdoor spaces belong to everyone, and we want every resident to experience the joy of winter,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “Through the Universal Access Program and our work with community partners, we’re creating more ways for people of all abilities to see themselves in our parks—whether that’s on a ski mountain, a winter trail or an ice rink—and to experience the beauty of the outdoors all year long.”

“Wintertime is a great time to take advantage of DCR’s Universal Access Program recreation offerings. Whether it's sit-skating, adaptive cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or any of our other opportunities to get out of the house and enjoy this beautiful time of year,” said UAP Program Director Tom McCarthy. “Please join us for a fun-filled experience. We look forward to seeing you soon.”  

This winter, DCR will provide adaptive programming at 15 parks, skating rinks, and ski areas. Each activity is tailored to accommodate a wide variety of participant needs, and the majority are offered at no cost. All UAP programs include adaptive equipment for a variety of needs, professional staff, instruction, and support. Programs are for individuals of all ages with any disabilities. Friends and family members of participants are also encouraged to take part.

In addition to programming, DCR has adaptive equipment at various properties that allow individuals with disabilities to enjoy parks independently, including at skating rinks statewide and at Leo J. Martin Ski Track in Weston.  

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

• Skating: Ranking among UAP’s most popular winter offerings, accessible skating is being offered at rinks throughout the state and to individuals of all skill levels. Working with Holyoke Rows, Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers, and All Out Adventures, DCR offers ice sleds, skate walkers, conventional skates, and ice grippers for participants. Participants are also welcome to go out on the ice using their own mobility devices.
• Skiing: Together with staff from All Out Adventures, Waypoint Adventure, and Wachusett Mountain UAP provides adaptive, cross-country and seated skiing. Adaptive cross-country skiing will be offered at the Leo J. Martin ski track in Weston, where snow is made daily, Wendell State Forest, and Daughters of the American Revolution State Park in Goshen. Adaptive equipment will be available at all locations and for all skiing activities.
• Hiking: Join our partners from Waypoint Adventure on a relaxing jaunt around historic Walden Pond in Concord, Blue Hills Reservation in Milton or Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle. A variety of adaptive equipment is available, as well as trained instruction for anyone using equipment for the first time.
• Snowshoeing: Once the snow starts piling up, snowshoeing will be available through All Out Adventures at Wendell State Forest and Daughters of the American Revolution State Park. Kicksleds will also be available to anyone looking to explore the trails at either park.
• Hockey: Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers’ Sears Adaptive Hockey program offers both competitive and recreational sled hockey at Allied Veterans Memorial Rink in Everett. Programming will feature individual coaching, skills training, and organized games and scrimmages.
• Downhill skiing: Adaptive downhill skiing lessons are offered by Wachusett Mountain Ski Area. Wachusett Mountain staff are trained in working with skiers of all ages and abilities to enjoy winter snow sports. 

In the past year, DCR, through UAP, has provided recreation opportunities for nearly 1,500 participants with disabilities and more than 1,200 family members, friends and support staff. 

To take part in UAP programming, participants need to register in advance. To register and view the full Winter 2025-2026 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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