About - Colorado Discover Ability

Jump to:

Our Story, Our Community, and Our Purpose

At Colorado Discover Ability, our mission is to increase independence, self-confidence, self-worth, and learning through inclusive outdoor recreation for people with disabilities.

Our Beginnings

Founded in 1980 as the Powderhorn Handicapped Ski Program, CDA began by providing educational and therapeutic alpine skiing opportunities for individuals with disabilities in Western Colorado. As participation grew, it became clear that the need for adaptive recreation extended well beyond skiing. In 1987, the organization officially became Colorado Discover Ability, expanding to include summer programs for children and young adults.

Growing With Our Community

Over the decades, CDA has continued to evolve, serving individuals of all ages and a wide range of disabilities. Today, we proudly support people with disabilities across our community, including veterans, and we sponsor Team Powderhorn, the largest Special Olympics ski race team in Western Colorado.

What We Offer Today

Our programs now include adaptive skiing and snowboarding at Powderhorn Mountain Resort, cycling along the Riverfront Trail, sled hockey at River City Sportsplex, rafting on the Colorado River through town, Ruby Horsethief, and the Moab Daily, as well as other outdoor adventures throughout Mesa County.

Group of Team Powderhorn skiers gather on a snowy slope, receiving instruction.

Three people sit in an inflatable raft preparing to paddle during an adaptive water recreation program

Why It Matters

At CDA, we believe in the transformative power of recreation. By creating welcoming, inclusive outdoor experiences, we help people of all abilities build confidence, connection, and a lifelong love of adventure.

I want to thank you for helping me learn to ski. I didn’t think I ever could. When I ski I feel happy.
Thank you for being so kind and giving your time so kids like me can learn to ski.
— L. B.