Get Outside, Explore, and Discover What’s Possible
At Colorado Discover Ability, people ages 4 and up can take part in adaptive outdoor recreation year-round. Programs are flexible and support outdoor experiences that work for each participant.
All program scheduling is handled by the CDA. Lessons are led with support from trained volunteers and CDA program directors.
How to Get Started
Before scheduling a program, new participants must complete the following steps:
This process helps our staff match participants with appropriate equipment, volunteers, and program opportunities.
Programs by Season
Adaptive Skiing and Snowboarding
January–March
Ages 4 and up
Adaptive skiing and snowboarding provide safe, supportive instruction for individuals with a wide range of physical and cognitive disabilities. No prior skiing or snowboarding experience is required.
Hosted at Powderhorn Mountain Resort since CDA’s inception, the program supports both new skiers and those looking to build skills over time.
Participants work one-on-one or in small groups with trained instructors and volunteers, using adaptive equipment as needed. Lessons are designed collaboratively to support individual goals and abilities.
Team Powderhorn
January–March
Ages 8 and up
Team Powderhorn is CDA’s Special Olympics alpine ski and snowboard team for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Athletes train at Powderhorn Mountain Resort throughout the winter season and compete in regional and state Special Olympics races.
Adaptive cycling takes place along the Colorado Riverfront Trail and surrounding areas, with easy access from CDA’s headquarters.
Using specially adapted trikes and tandem recumbent bicycles, CDA creates accessible cycling experiences for individuals of all ability levels. No prior cycling experience is required.
Cycling opportunities are scheduled individually based on participant needs and program timing.
Summer Adventure
June–July
Ages 4 and up
Summer Adventure is an eight-week program that meets two days per week. Participants try a variety of inclusive outdoor activities and learn about the range of programs CDA offers. The program also encourages exploration, movement, and connection.
Participants may learn and practice skills such as cycling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and other water sports, along with activities like hiking, sled hockey, disc golf, and horseback riding at Harmony Acres. The program also emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and building friendships in a supportive group setting.
Specific activities may vary by week based on weather, location, and participant needs.
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance may be available for CDA programs. Some participants may also qualify for state disability waivers that help cover program costs. These waivers include the Children’s Extensive Support (CES) Waiver and the Supported Living Services (SLS) Waiver.
Colorado Discover Ability partners with service agencies, schools, veteran organizations, and community groups to create inclusive outdoor recreation experiences tailored to the needs of the people they serve.
CDA works collaboratively with agencies to design custom lessons and group activities across many programs, including adaptive snowsports, cycling, and Summer Adventure activities.
To get started, service agency providers should contact the CDA office to discuss goals, participant needs, and scheduling options.
Veterans
Veterans are welcome to participate in many CDA programs throughout the year, including adaptive snowsports, cycling, and Summer Adventure activities. CDA also works with veteran organizations to offer custom group opportunities when available.
After my second spinal cord injury, I lost my independence and my desire to move. Colorado Discover Ability helped me rediscover that desire through supportive, adaptive outdoor activities. As a veteran, trust matters — and CDA became part of my inner circle as I began a new journey toward healing.
