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The Adaptive Sports Association's winter program has been providing snowsport instruction and equipment to people with disabilities for almost 25 years. Lessons are typically one-on-one and are offered to people with every type of disability. State-of-the-art equipment and instruction, as well as a "family" atmosphere are hallmarks of ASA's winter program. Skiing, snowboarding and a variety of "sit-ski" options are available to get every individual enjoying the snow in the least restrictive manner possible.
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"They'll have you skiing in no time, with no fear at all, and you will be moved by the experience.
It's awesome. It's the greatest thing I have ever done!"
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Our instructors work closely with our students to determine the most appropriate method of cruising the slopes. Adaptation and improvisation are what make our winter program so successful. Come explore the exciting world of Colorado skiing with the Adaptive Sports Association!
Volunteer with our Winter Program
Adaptive Skiing
The Mono-Ski
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The perfect candidate for the mono-ski would be an individual with spinal cord injury (T-4 or lower) or any other type of mobility impairment, such as multiple sclerosis or muscular dystrophy. A mono-ski candidate should be in good physical condition and ready to have fun.
The Adaptive Sports Association has a variety of different mono-skis ranging from the KBG to the Grove Innovation, Halls, Shadow, and the Revolutions
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The Bi-ski
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The typical candidate for the Bi-ski would be an individual with a mid to high level spinal cord injury(C-1 to T-3), involved Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, or MS. Turning the Bi-ski can be done with subtle movement of the head or if one has adequate arm mobility, turns can be initiated with the use of outriggers.
The Adaptive Sports Association uses Bi Unique, and Mountain Man bi-skis.
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4-Track Skiing
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Four tracks in the snow with two skis and two hand held outriggers or a device similar to a walker adapted for the snow, is what 4-tracking is all about. Mild Cerebral Palsy and people with strength and balance issues make the perfect 4-track candidate. The photo to the left shows off the "Snow Slider" which is also a popular method of 4-tracking!
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3-Track Skiing
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Three tracks in the snow with one ski and two hand held outriggers is what 3-tracking is all about. Individuals with above the knee amputations typically use this method of skiing.
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Blind Skiing
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ASA is proud of their instructors who are specifically trained for instruction with individuals with blindness or various visual impairments. As with all ASA lessons, safety is our primary concern.
A variety of electronic and adaptive aids are available to ensure comfort and success.
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Cognitive Skier
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This traditional style of skiing with two regular skis and poles, is ideal for individuals with many cognitive and less involved physical disabilities. We often use adaptive aids (tethers, ski-bras, spacers, etc.) to facilitate instruction with 2-Track students.
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Snowboarding
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Snowboarding is an increasingly popular way to ride the snow. We encourage anyone that we can accommodate to try snowboarding with modifications and adaptations for various types of disabilities.
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Ski Bikes
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The latest piece of adaptive equipment to be added to ASA's arsenal is the SKI BIKE. Similar to a bicycle with skis instead of wheels, the skibike has been used in Europe for over 50 years. Adaptive programs have recently discovered that it can be an ideal way for many people with disabilities to enjoy skiing. Since the ski bike takes the majority of a person's weight off of the legs and feet, it can fill a frustrating void between stand-up and sit-down skiing. ASA has had tremendous success using the ski bike with people with Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, amputations, traumatic brain injuries, and other disabilities. And the best thing about the ski bike is that it's incredibly easy to learn |
Adaptive Skiing Rates
Skiing/Snowboarding
Independent skiers with a disability are eligible for 50% off Durango Mountain Resort's regular lift ticket rate. Tickets need to be purchased at the Dave Spencer Center, located at Columbine beginner area.
Advanced reservations are required for all lessons.
All full-day lessons include a lift ticket and equipment.
Special local/regional school group rates are available.
Part of the mission of the Adaptive Sports Association is to provide services to individuals regardles of their financial situations. Our program has a limited number of scholarships available for individuals who would not otherwise be able to participate in lessons. Please contact one of our Program Directors directly to discuss scholarship possibilities.
Please call 970-385-2163 (after Nov. 15) or 970-259-0374 (before Nov. 15) or eMail us at
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for further information.
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Winter Sports 
