The skating season is upon us and many state rinks in Massachusetts have accessible ice skating sleds for people with disabilities to use on their own during public skating! Call in advance to ensure availability and find out anything else you need to know before you go!
Here is a list of places to go:
Auburn - Horgan Rink: 508-832-7201 (2 sleds)
Cambridge - Simoni Rink: 617-354-9523 (3 kids sleds)
Boston: Hyde Park - Bajko Rink: 617-364-9188 (2 kids sleds)
Boston: North End - Steriti Rink: 617-523-9327 ( 2 sleds)
Boston: West Roxbury - Roche Rink: 617-323-9512 (4 sleds)
Brockton - Asiaf Rink: 508-583-6804 (4 sleds)
Franklin - Pirelli/Vets Rink: 508-541-7024 (2 sleds)
Greenfield - Collins/Moylan Rink: 413-772-6891 (2 sleds)
Holyoke - Fitzpatrick Rink: 413-532-2929 (6 sleds)
Jamaica Plain - Kelly Rink {OUTDOORS!}: 617-727-7000 (1 sled)
Medford - Flynn Rink: 781-395-8492 (2 sleds)
Newburyport - Graf Rink: 978-462-8112 (1 sled)
North Adams - Vietnam Vets Rink: 413-664-8185 (3 sleds)
Plymouth - Armstrong Rink: 508-746-8825 (2 sleds)
Revere - Cronin Rink: 781-284-9491 (4 sleds)
Springfield - Smead Rink: 413-781-2599 (4 sleds)
Taunton - Alexio Rink: 508-824-4987 (2 sleds)
Each sled has a set of hockey sticks with which you can propel yourself and there is at least one stroller bar at each rink to allow for being pushed too. Some sleds have more support - a higher back and chest strap for those who need additional stabilization. If a rink has 2 sleds, one will feature extra support and a stroller bar handle. Kids usually fit fine into adult sleds (but alas the reverse it not true!). If you prefer to use another DCR rink that isn't listed, call 413-545-5758 to see if we can accommodate your need.
At the Weston Ski Track outside Boston, there are 2 cross country sitskis and 2 kicksleds available for use. Even if there is no snow, as long as its cold enough, snow is made for 2km of groomed trails! When there is snow, the trails expand! For those who have utilized the adaptive ski programs on site but don't have their own sitskis, you can go on your own any day of the week! If you are already experienced at sitskiing, contact the Ski Track at 781-891-6575 to find out how you can access the snow. The Ski Track is open until 9pm Monday - Thursday! Try night skiing!
Scandinavian kicksleds are a nice accommodation for anyone who can't walk far and would like to tour the trails with an assistant to push them. They are also great movable seating for seniors who would like to watch ski races at the Weston Ski Track!
For a list of adaptive winter program opportunities in Massachusetts, click on the Winter Calendar tab under the header above.
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