Winter Park, Colorado, is a premier destination for adaptive skiing, offering a comprehensive program designed to cater to individuals with disabilities. The National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD) has been a pioneer in providing adaptive outdoor experiences for over 50 years, making Winter Park a top choice for those seeking an inclusive and accessible winter sports experience.
What Accessibility Features Does Winter Park Offer for Adaptive Skiing?
Winter Park Resort has a variety of terrain accessible to adaptive skiers, including gentle groomed trails and more challenging terrain for advanced skiers. The resort also features adaptive lift systems, such as chairlifts and gondolas, that can accommodate adaptive equipment.
The NSCD has a dedicated adaptive ski school with specialized facilities, including equipment storage and maintenance areas, to ensure a seamless experience for adaptive skiers.
What Adaptive Skiing Equipment is Available at Winter Park?
Winter Park offers a range of specialized equipment to cater to the needs of adaptive skiers:
- Bi-Skiing: A sit-down option with a bucket-like seat and two skis attached, suitable for wheelchair users or those with lower extremity and/or trunk weakness.
- Two-Track Skis: Designed for skiers who stand on two skis but need assistance with leg strength, often used by below-knee amputees.
- Three-Track Skis: A stand-up method using one full-size ski and two handheld outriggers for balance and support, suitable for people with above-knee amputations or single limb weakness.
- Four-Track Skis: Uses two skis in combination with two handheld outriggers for balance and support, giving skiers four points of contact with the ground.
- Guides for Visually Impaired: Specially trained guides assist visually impaired skiers, providing verbal instructions and support.
What Qualifications Do the Instructors at Winter Park Have?
The NSCD instructors are certified by organizations such as the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and the International Ski Instructors Association (ISIA). In addition, they receive specialized training in adaptive skiing techniques and equipment, ensuring they are well-equipped to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for adaptive skiers.
What Programs Does Winter Park Offer for Individuals with Disabilities?
Winter Park, through the NSCD, offers a wide range of programs for individuals with disabilities:
- Private and Group Lessons: The NSCD offers private and group lessons in adaptive alpine skiing, snowboarding, ski biking, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing.
- Inclusion Programs: Programs designed for children with disabilities, such as the Inclusion Stand Ski and Snowboard program, which integrates children into Winter Park Resort’s Kids Lessons with an NSCD instructor.
- Competitive-Oriented Programs: Programs for athletes with disabilities who want to compete in adaptive skiing events.
How Can I Schedule, Cost, and Package My Adaptive Skiing Experience at Winter Park?
- Scheduling: Lessons can be booked in advance, with options for half-day, full-day, and multi-day packages.
- Costs: Prices vary depending on the type of lesson and equipment needed, with discounts available for multi-day packages.
- Packages: The NSCD offers various packages, including equipment rentals, lessons, and lift tickets.
What Statistics and Effectiveness Data is Available for Winter Park’s Adaptive Skiing Programs?
- Participation: The NSCD serves over 3,000 participants annually, with a wide range of disabilities.
- Inclusivity: The NSCD’s adaptive skiing programs have been recognized for their inclusivity, with participants from all over the world.