What is adaptive skibiking?

What does it mean when ski resorts say adaptive skibike with a permit only?

Simply put, adaptive means those that have a physical or cognitive disability that prevents them from using standardized skiing, snowboarding, or skibiking methods.  There are programs around the USA and the world to help get the disabled on the ski slopes.

The National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park, Colorado pioneered adaptive teaching techniques.  It now offers instruction in skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and skibiking.  Many graduates have gone on to race in the winter Paralympics.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) businesses must make accommodations for those with disabilities.  This includes ski resorts.

To get adaptive access to ski resorts that do not allow bikes, one must have a letter from their medical doctor.  The letter must state that a bike is the only way one can access the ski resort.  Some ski resorts like Vail issue permits that are attached to your skibike frame.  The Vail permit is recognized nationally.

There is a sample letter on the Skbike World website that one can use as a template for your medical doctor.   Show it to the ski area staff to get your adaptive permit there or gain access to the area.

Learn more about adaptive programs at:

National Sports Center for the Disabled - Winter Park, Colorado

Challenge Aspen - Aspen, Colorado

Adaptive Sports Association - Durango, Colorado

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