Adaptive Sports Center: Making Outdoor Adventure Accessible To All
Photos courtesy of Adaptive Sports Center
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Crested Butte, Colorado, the Adaptive Sports Center (ASC) is committed to making outdoor recreation accessible to individuals of all abilities. Offering a diverse range of summer programs, ASC ensures that everyone, regardless of physical, emotional or cognitive challenges, can experience the thrill and healing power of nature.
A SUMMER OF ADVENTURE
During the summer months, ASC provides an exciting lineup of outdoor activities designed to challenge and inspire participants. From the adrenaline rush of downhill mountain biking to the serene beauty of flatwater paddleboarding, there’s something for everyone. The list of offerings includes: mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, camping, whitewater rafting, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing, along with a challenge ropes course.
Each activity is guided by highly certified instructors, ensuring that participants receive one-on-one instruction and access to the best adaptive equipment available.
ASC serves individuals with a wide range of disabilities and unique needs. To create a truly personalized experience, participants complete a detailed registration form that helps program staff determine the best equipment and instructor pairing. The team’s expertise in adaptive equipment allows them to modify gear on-site, ensuring that each individual can fully engage in their chosen activity with confidence and ease.
THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR ADAPTIVE RECREATION
Crested Butte’s stunning natural surroundings make it an ideal location for adaptive sports. The center operates from two key locations that provide direct access to world-class outdoor terrain:
• Town of Crested Butte: The summer outfitting building is just a short ride or walk from accessible trails and a picturesque high-alpine lake.
• Mt. Crested Butte (Kelsey Wright Building): Located at the base of Crested Butte Mountain Resort, this facility offers direct ride-in, ride-out access to the resort’s downhill biking trails.
Additionally, the Kelsey Wright Building is designed with accessibility in mind, allowing participants to stay on-site with staff, fostering a strong sense of community and increasing the time spent outdoors.
ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL: THE $95 FULL-DAY LESSON
Ensuring affordability is a key pillar of ASC’s mission. Through the Access for All Initiative, a full-day adaptive lesson is available for just $95 — despite costing over $900 per session. This dramatically reduced rate is made possible through generous donations and grants, helping to break financial barriers that often prevent people with disabilities from enjoying outdoor recreation.
ASC is focused on expanding awareness and participation in adaptive sports. By continuing to promote its accessible pricing model and increasing outreach efforts, the center aims to grow its programs and serve even more participants in the years to come.
With a commitment to inclusion, adventure and empowerment, Adaptive Sports Center in Crested Butte is transforming the way individuals of all abilities experience the great outdoors — one exciting adventure at a time.
Learn more at adaptivesports.org.
The article is a sponsored spotlight.