Adaptive Snowsports & Outdoor Recreation

Accessible Winter Fun for Everyone
Winter brings its own magic — and with the right supports, it’s a season full of activity, connection and joy for everyone. From adaptive ski lessons with CADS Alberta to downtown festivals like Winterruption and Deep Freeze, there are many inclusive options across the province. Whether you prefer gliding across ice, watching snow art, or enjoying comedy in the snow, there’s something for you. Don’t forget to check accessibility details (parking, washrooms, sensory supports) ahead of time, and consider inviting a friend or family member.

Winter Accessibility Challenges – advocacy message for municipalities or property owners.

CADS Alberta
CADS Alberta offers ski and snowboard lessons and programs for people of all abilities — physical, cognitive, sensory — across the province.

Go Ski Alberta
Great for families, individuals seeking extra support, or someone trying a new winter sport experience.
Tip: Encourage booking early and checking for adaptive equipment availability.

Rocky Mountain Adaptive
Offers accessible adventures including downhill skiing, snowboarding, sit‐skiing and more for people with physical/neuro-divergent needs. rockymountainadaptive.com. A good option if your community group wants to highlight more adventurous outdoor winter options.

Inclusive Winter Festivals & Events
Silver Skate Festival – Edmonton
This is a free 10-day festival celebrating winter in Edmonton combining sport, recreation, art and culture. silverskate.ca Because it features public skating surfaces (which can often be adapted/accessible) and family-friendly activities, it can be a strong inclusive outing.

Winterruption YEG – Edmonton
A winter music/comedy festival in downtown Edmonton that describes itself as inclusive, diverse, and representative. We recommend checking venue accessibility ahead of time (entrances, washrooms, seating).

Deep Freeze: A Byzantine Winter Festival – Edmonton
Takes place mid‐January (17‐18, 2026) in the Alberta Avenue District, mixing art, culture and winter activities. Excellent example of a winter event that steps beyond sport into inclusive art & culture.

Additional Winter Recreation Ideas
Encourage snowshoeing or cross‐country skiing on accessible trails (Alberta offers inclusive outdoor recreation experiences) Local community centres often run adaptive winter programs (e.g., sledge hockey, adapted skating) — e.g., the City of Calgary’s adaptive programs page shows sledge hockey and other winter options for adaptive participants.
https://www.calgary.ca

For smaller scale/in‐home suggestions: indoor inclusive games, virtual winter social gatherings, accessible outdoor walks with hot-cocoa stops.