THERAPEUTIC RECREATION

Mt. Spokane is very proud to partner with the City of Spokane Parks & Recreation department to host their Adaptive & Downhill Ski & Snowboard programs as part of their Therapeutic Recreation Services! 

The Adaptive Program is for adults and children 6 years and older with physical disabilities. 

Special equipment allows the freedom of skiing or riding our slopes.  Sit-skis allow the non-ambulatory the chance to achieve dramatic levels of control and maneuverability.  Blind skiers learn to follow verbal signals of their instructors to “see with their feet.”  Outrigger skis are similar to a forearm crutch with a short ski that pivots, to allow leg amputees to ski without their prosthetic.  Adaptive snowboard equipment is also available!

All lessons employ a one-to-one or one-to-two instructor to student ratio.  Instructors are specially trained and are volunteers from the Spokane community and local universities.  Because of limited specialized equipment, registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis.  A limited amount of scholarship money is available from individuals needing assistance.  Volunteers are always needed – if you like skiing and people, this is the perfect volunteer opportunity for you.

Call (509) 625-6245 for more information on the Adaptive program and how you can get involved.

The Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding Program is also part of Spokane Parks & Rec’s Therapeutic Recreation Services division, and is offered for adults and children 8 years and older with developmental disabilities. 

Much like the Adaptive program, the Downhill program utilizes volunteers from the local community and universities to achieve a low instructor to student ratio, which allows for improved safety and skill development.  Instructors follow the PSIA and AASI standards for teaching.  Participants also have the opportunity to attend and compete in the Washington Chapter Special Olympic Winter Games.  As always, volunteers are desired.

The Therapeutic Services division also hosts a Cross-Country Ski Program in cooperation with the Mt. Spokane Nordic Ski Area (which is operated by Spokane Parks & Rec) for people with developmental disabilities ages 12 and older. 

For more information on these programs visit the Spokane Parks & Recreation website or call (509) 625-6245.

Spokane Parks & Recreation Brochures

Adaptive Ski/Snowboard Program for children and adults 6 years and older with physical disabilities

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding for adults and children 8 years and older with developmental disabilities