Refresh Yourself with Adaptive Winter Recreation in Worcester and Beyond

A skater using with a walker.

        This week I stopped by Buffone Rink in Worcester to meet with the supervisor about our upcoming adaptive skating programs. While there, I treated myself to skating on the ice and found myself wonderfully refreshed afterwards. There is something magical about gliding in cool air - it clears the mind and refreshes the lungs - two things most of us could use during a season of so much time spent indoors.

        DCR's Universal Access Program is finally returning to Worcester since the pandemic started, to bring some winter fun opportunities to the area. We will be at Buffone Rink at 284 Lake Ave. on Mondays January 16, February 27 and March 20 from 1-3:30pm. Advance registration is required. Find more information at the end of this post.    

Buffone Rink has lots of space during weekday public skating. 

        You can also skate at the rink on your own, using DCR's adaptive skating equipment. There are two ice skating sleds on site, as well as some skate walkers, and ice grippers known as Yak Trax. This configuration of limited equipment allows a few individuals to come on the ice during weekday public skating times and try out skating. While I was there, public skating was taking place. There were eight to ten people on the ice, leaving plenty of space for learning and social distancing. To access this equipment, contact the rink at 508-799-0910 or ask when you arrive.

      

A woman in her 80s skates every day.

        The rink is located on a bus stop and is accessible to enter. The sidewalk leading in has a gradual uphill grade. There is an accessible bathroom inside the ice arena past the lobby. The rink charges $6 for admission and $6 for skate rentals, but the adaptive equipment is free to use.

        Another adaptive skating option at the Buffone Rink is through the American Special Hockey Association, which has a local chapter called the Worcester Snow Squalls. They will be back on the ice on Saturdays in March and April.

Two skaters push two seated skaters on sleds.

             If you want to try adaptive skating but don't live in Worcester, many other DCR rinks have ice sleds available. We are also offering adaptive skating programs in East Boston on Wednesdays and Holyoke on Sundays this season.

        Across the street from Buffone Rink is Lake Park, part of Quinsigamond State Park. I stopped over there on my visit and discovered that the paved pathways in the park had melted out after a recent snow and were easy to use. There are beautiful views of majestic oaks along the Lake Quinsigamond shoreline, otherwise the park has an urban athletic atmosphere. The oaks and lake views are well worth a stop. If you are craving a dose of nature, it's a good choice, especially when winter conditions are mild. The wind can be bracing though, so pick your time carefully. Restrooms are not open in winter.

        

Accessible trail at Lake Park shows clear paved way in winter.

        If you'd like to attend an adaptive skating program, contact kristen.rhodes@mass.gov or call 857-319-2168.

        DCR (Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation) advocates for people to be mindful of the pandemic situation and follow current safe practices outlined by the CDC and Massachusetts Department of Public Health.