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Resources on Recreation and Exercise

 

New – May 2014

Adults with Disabilities, Physical Activity if For Everybody CDC’s Vital Signs, May 2014 Issue

Montana, Statewide:

Big Sky Imagination Inventor Scot Browne manufactures and sells a variety of recreational products, including a hands-free binocular stand, a wheelchair rifle rest, and a wheelchair flashlight holder.

Montana Access to Outdoor Recreation strives to increase opportunities for participation in wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, and other related activities for individuals with disabilities and those who are aging. MATOR offers the following services: free recreational equipment library; demonstration events; education and awareness; and a volunteer network.

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services:

Public Health and Safety Division: Cardiovascular Health/Nutrition and Physical Activity

Obesity/Physical Activity Program
1400 Broadway, Rm. C317, Helena, MT 59620
(406) 444-5508

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”,  disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.

Montana Statewide Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012

North American Riding for the Handicapped Region 9 Affiliates NARHA Association affiliates from Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington

Parents, Let’s Unite for Kids publishes: Montana Recreation, Travel, & Camp Resource Handbook for People with Special Needs

Special Olympics of Montana Nonprofit international program of year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Visit Montana Official state travel site.

VSA Arts of Montana Partners with the Departments of Dance and Music at the University of Montana to provide learning opportunities for people with disabilities and teacher and access training for University of Montana students who participate in VSA classes on campus.

Traffic Safety Education Provides safety advice for pedestrians, motorists, and equipment maintenance.

Pedestrian Safety for children Educates about the safety of children ages five to nine years with information on how to better protect them.

Bicycle, In-Line Skating & Skateboarding Safety A guide on how to prevent accidents and identifying high risk situations

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Montana Resources, by town (alphabetical order)

Belgrade:

  • The Rock Fitness Center 406-388-7133 (wheelchair accessible). Group fitness training, personal training, nutrition and dietetics, physical therapy. Classes adjusted for all levels and all handicaps.

Billings:

(Aquatic)

  • Billings Park and Recreation Aquatics (wheelchair accessible)
  • Rose Park Pool and Waterslides  406-657-8371 (wheelchair accessible) Swimming pool, wading pool, spray park, and waterslides. Open during summer.
  • Eagle Mount Billings 406-245-5422 (wheelchair accessible) Physically challenged swim, and beginner and intermediate swim. Partnerships with St. Vincent Health and Rehabilitation and Billings Family YMCA.
  • Billings YMCA 406-248-1685 (wheelchair accessible) Water aerobics and water exercise classes for adults and swimming classes for children. Weighted chair lift and floating belts available.

(Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes)

  • Curves Fitness Center for Women 406-252-1300 (wheelchair accessible) Hydraulic equipment allows the user to make adjustments to the workout based on individual ability levels. Alternative classes also available.
  • Billings Community Center 406-657-3050 (wheelchair accessible) Senior recreation/fitness facilities & community center activities. Recreational classes & activities, health/wellness screenings & programs. Adult Enrichment Classes.
  • Billings YMCA  406-248-1685 (wheelchair accessible) A wide variety of Health and Fitness programs for all ages. Camps, summer programs, health and fitness consultations, and adult programs.
  • Oz Fitness Center 406-245-0960 Group fitness classes, team of trainers helping to ensure every customer reaches their individual health & fitness goals.
  • Heights Fitness Center 406-252-7737 Premium equipment, programs and specialized training. Discounted rates for seniors, and free 2 week trial membership.

(Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options)

  • Billings Parks & Recreation
  • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”,  disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
  • Pictograph State Park: A short, paved trail leads to a cave that holds rock paintings and other artifacts that date back over 2000 years. Trails are flat, but not wheelchair accessible.
  • Custer County Southeastern Montana Birding Trail
  • Lake Elmo State Park (wheelchair accessible): Swimming, bird watching, disabled fishing pier, and a paved trail.
  • Pompey’s Pillar: Spectacular birdwatching. The interpretive center, restrooms, parking lot, and day use area are all fully accessible.
  • Matthew’s Recreation Area (wheelchair accessible): Wheelchair accessible fishing platform and cement paved walking path.
  • Swords Park (wheelchair accessible): A paved, gently rolling path that extends about two miles to the east along the rims north of town.
  • Norm Schoenthal Island (wheelchair accessible): A level 1.9 mile gravel trail through woodlands along the Yellowstone River
  • Riverfront Park (wheelchair accessible): Paved and unpaved trails around Lake Josephine and through woodlands.
  • Two Moon Park (wheelchair accessible) Various level gravel paths through woodlands.
  • Zoo Montana 406-652-8100 (wheelchair accessible) Zoological park and botanical gardens, offering habitat to exotic and native animals and plants.

(Other Programs)

Bozeman:

(Aquatic)

  • Eagle Mount Bozeman Therapeutic Aquatics Program 406-586-1781 (wheelchair accessible) Water aerobics, swim skill classes, and therapeutic action plans designed with the individual’s goals and objectives in mind.
  • Bozeman Swim Center 406-587-4724 (wheelchair accessible) 50 meter indoor pool, hot tub and water aerobic equipment. Hydraulic-powered pool-side lift and easy access steps into the pool. The Arthritis Foundation offers aquatic programs in the warm-water pool. If you have a disability that requires assistance, please contact the ADA Coordinator, Melynda Coble at 587-4724.
  • The Ridge 406-586-1737 (wheelchair accessible) Swimming pool, therapy pool with hydraulic lift, water classes and water therapy classes.

(Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes)

  (Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options)

  • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”,  disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
  • Bohart Ranch Disc Golf (Folf) Course 406-586-9070
  • City Parks and Playgrounds (wheelchair accessible): Bogert Park- ADA accessible playground and activities
  • City Trail System (wheelchair accessible) – not paved but smooth for wheelchairs.
  • Langer Gardens Climbing Boulder (wheelchair accessible) – easy access, and can climb right out of wheelchair.
  • Bozeman Pond (wheelchair accessible) – dock for access to fishing. Putting in a climbing boulder.

  (Other Programs)

  • Eagle Mount Bozeman 406-586-1781 Hosts a wide range of therapeutic recreational activities for people with disabilities and children with cancer, including golf, horticulture, ice skating, cancer camps, aquatics, cycling, fishing, kayaking, skiing, and equestrian.
  • LOVE INC – Paid Forward with Love 406-587-3008. A program providing wellness treatments such as yoga, massage, chiropractic, Pilates, and ear candling for low income and needy elderly persons from the community.
  • Montana Senior Olympics 406-586-5543 (wheelchair accessible). Competitive events for individuals ages 50 and older, held in June.
  • Bozeman Women’s Activity Group 406-587-0203. Hiking and backcountry skiing groups are the group’s most popular activities, and there are also groups of eightball pool players, quilters, and bikers. Currently, over 200 women participate in BWAG activities.
  • Gallatin Dog Club (wheelchair accessible). Contact Vicky Whitney, President: hvwhitney@msn.com. Monthly meeting held the second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at Border’s Cafe
  • Additional Information: Bozeman Recreation and Parks Advisory Board (wheelchair accessible) lists activities in the Bozeman area.

Butte:

(Aquatic)

  • Butte YMCA 406-782-1266 (wheelchair accessible). Handicapped accessible pools- warmer pool has zero entry for rolling wheelchair into water and a water wheelchair available for use. Lap pool has a lift for entering and exiting. Arthritis water classes for seniors and aqua-aerobics classes also available.
  • Montana Tech (406) 496-4293 Call for times the pool is open to the public.

(Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes)

  • Butte YMCA 406-782-1266 (wheelchair accessible). Recreation/fitness facilities & community center activities. Recreational classes & activities for seniors, family programs, and youth fitness programs. Elevator access.
  • Big Sky Senior Living Center (406) 494-9200, ask for Colleen. (Wheelchair accessible) Exercise classes and limited fitness equipment available to the public as well as residents.

 (Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options)

  • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”,  disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
  • Butte Ranger District- Beaverhead National Forest Various campgrounds, trails, and picnic/recreation areas that are handicapped accessible:
  • Freedom Point Picnic Area
  • Sheepshead Recreation Area This mixed forest and grassland has 1.3 miles of paved nature trails, fishing, a lake, and a picnic area.
  • Ulrich/Schotte Nature Trail A paved two-mile nature trail winds through wetlands, a pond and a restored section of Blacktail Creek, all populated with ducks, geese, and other birds.
  • City Trails: 22 miles of paved, handicapped accessible trails wrap through and around the city of Butte.

 (Other Programs)

Corvallis:

  • Bitterroot Therapeutic Riding NARHA Center 599 Popham Lane, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-2999 btr@bitterrootriding.org
  • Montana Accessible Recreation Opportunities is a joint venture between MonTECH at The University of Montana Rural Institute and the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center: Rocky Mountain Americans with Disabilities Act Center. Its goal is to be a one-stop resource for comprehensive accessibility information for all Montana public recreation lands. The project strives to provide relevant accessibility data using GIS mapping, GPS technology, and a variety of other informational sources to help individuals plan outings at accessible recreational sites. This pilot program is currently limited to Missoula and Ravalli counties. If financial support can be secured, the project will expand to include other areas of Montana and eventually the entire state.  

Darby:

  • Montana Accessible Recreation Opportunities is a joint venture between MonTECH at The University of Montana Rural Institute and the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center: Rocky Mountain Americans with Disabilities Act Center. Its goal is to be a one-stop resource for comprehensive accessibility information for all Montana public recreation lands. The project strives to provide relevant accessibility data using GIS mapping, GPS technology, and a variety of other informational sources to help individuals plan outings at accessible recreational sites. This pilot program is currently limited to Missoula and Ravalli counties. If financial support can be secured, the project will expand to include other areas of Montana and eventually the entire state.
  • Shooting Star Ranch Therapeutic Riding Program, 321 Hairpin Lane, Darby, MT 59829, 406-821-4700  diane@nevadajoe.net

Great Falls:

(Aquatic)

  • Morony Natatorium Pool  406-452-3733 (wheelchair accessible). Equipped with a hydraulic-powered, pool-side lift. Open swim is held on Friday from 4-9 p.m. and Saturday from 1-5 p.m. Aquatic Solutions, a program designed for individuals who have orthopedic injuries, MS, spinal injuries, stroke, or arthritis also offered.
  • Eagle Mount Great Falls Therapeutic Aquatics Program 406-454-1449 (wheelchair accessible). Water aerobics, swim skill classes, and therapeutic action plans designed with the individual’s goals and objectives in mind.

(Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes)

  • Curves Fitness Center for Women 406-771-7630 (wheelchair accessible). Hydraulic equipment allows the user to make adjustments to the workout based on individual ability levels. Alternative classes also available.
  • The Peak Health and Wellness Center 406-727-7325. Circuit training, classes, and stretching for seniors, as well as water classes for people with back problems, arthritis, etc. Designed for people of all fitness levels.

(Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options)

  • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”,  disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
  • Black Eagle Memorial Island (wheelchair accessible) 13 miles of trail are paved and wheelchair accessible, leading to the Black Eagle Falls overlook.
  • Gibson Park (wheelchair accessible) The largest park in the city, it has a paved trail that connects to River’s Edge Trail, flower gardens, pond with waterfowl, coffeehouse, historic cabin, band shell, picnic areas, and stained glass murals. Playground equipment is wheelchair accessible.
  • Thain Creek Trail This 0.75 mile loop trail begins on the north side of Thain Creek Campground. It is level, but unpaved.
  • Ulm Pishkun/First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park (wheelchair accessible) Picnicking, hiking, animal watching, and a museum.
  • Giant Springs State Park (wheelchair accessible) Wildlife viewing, boating, fishing, picnicking, and interpretive programs.

(Other Programs)

  • Eagle Mount Great Falls (406) 454-1449 (wheelchair accessible) Hosts a wide range of therapeutic recreational activities for people with disabilities and children with cancer, including gymnastics, gardening, ice skating, day camps, aquatics, cycling, fishing, kayaking, skiing, and equestrian.
  • Showdown Ski Area (wheelchair accessible) Eagle Mount provides ski lessons for people of all disabilities. Pre-registration is required.

Havre:

Helena:

(Aquatic)

  • Broadwater Athletic Clubs and Hot Springs 406-443-5777 (wheelchair accessible). Three natural hot springs pools & spas, and water slides incorporated in this family fitness center.
  • Memorial Park Swimming Pool 406-447-1559. The outdoor swimming pool is a 50-meter pool heated to 82 ° for swimming lessons, water aerobics classes, and open swimming.

(Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes)

  • Curves Fitness Center for Women  800-848-1096 (wheelchair accessible). Hydraulic equipment allows the user to make adjustments to the workout based on individual ability levels. Alternative classes also available.
  • Helena YMCA 406-442-9622 (wheelchair accessible). Recreation/fitness facilities & community center activities. Recreational classes & activities, family programs, youth fitness programs.
  • Broadwater Athletic Clubs – The Life Fitness Center 406-443-6045 (wheelchair accessible). Fully handicapped-accessible family fitness center, hot springs pools, the Adventure Zone, full locker room facilities and full fitness facilities, Group Fitness Classes, Teen Fitness Programs.

(Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options)

  • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”,  disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
  • Spring Meadow Lake State Park (wheelchair accessible) Swimming, bird watching, scuba diving, fishing, picnicking. Interpretive trail and day use area are paved and accessible.
  • White Sandy Bureau of Land Management Recreation Area Swimming, fishing, picnicking, boating.
  • Causeway on Lake Helena (wheelchair accessible) Boating, canoeing, lake fishing and picnicking. Fishing pier and restroom facilities offer easy accessibility.
  • Archie Bray Foundation 406-443-3502 (wheelchair accessible).  Flat, paved and gravel trails weave you through an eclectic array of ceramic statues and buildings. The Archie Bray foundation, founded in 1951, was once the site of a brick factory, and is now a home for visiting artists from around the world.

(Other Programs)

  • Helena Farmer’s Market (seasonal) Farmer’s market, outdoor activities, food, performing arts, and art shows (wheelchair accessible) .
  • Historic Last Chance Gulch Mall  Pedestrian mall with many events each year, including art walks, holiday strolls, summer “Alive@ Five” free weekly concerts, music festivals and craft fairs (wheelchair accessible).
  • Eagle Mount Helena, 3400 Centennial Dr., Helena, MT 59601. Contact: Edward Kerins at 406- 442-6103 or e-mail: kerins@mt.ne
  • Fresh Steps Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Inc. North American Riding for the Handicapped (NARHA) Center 6515 Green Meadow Drive, Helena, MT 59602.  Contact: Darcie Kelly at 406-558-4743 or therapy@freshsteps.net

Lolo:

(Other Programs)

Miles City:

(Aquatic)

  • Miles City Natural Oasis Miles City’s unique outdoor municipal pool is a natural swimming hole. Located next to City Park for picnicking.
  • Spotted Eagle Lake (wheelchair accessible) Motorboat restrictions make this area great for swimming, picnicking, and especially fishing. New wheelchair accessible fishing dock.

  (Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes)

  • Centra Athletic Center– Miles Community College 406-874-6262 (wheelchair accessible). Automatic doors and stairlift make Centra accessible. Full fitness center with weight room and gymnasium, as well as fitness evaluations. Pilates, aerobics, and power-cycling classes, and opportunities for seniors. Encourage people of all ages to develop healthy lifestyles.
  • Curves Fitness Center for Women 406-234-1868 (wheelchair accessible). Hydraulic equipment allows the user to make adjustments to the workout based on individual ability levels. Alternative classes also available.

(Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options)

  • Pirogue Island State Park Great for fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Hiking/biking trails are gravel, not paved. Accessible by floating and by walking through a shallow channel.
  • Tusler Recreation Site ½ mile handicapped accessible trail around recreation site. Picnicking, walking, wildlife viewing.
  • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”,  disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.

(Other)

  • Miles City Farmer’s Market (seasonal) Selling homemade edibles, handcrafted items, vegetables & fruit, jewelry, clothing, house plants, and flea market type goods.

Missoula:

 (Aquatic)

  • Splash Montana and Currents Aquatic Center 406-721-7275 (wheelchair accessible) Awarded the “Good Access is Good Business” award by Summit Independent Living Center for exceptional design in accessibility. Splash Montana is outside, Currents is inside. Both offer pools, waterslides, classes, and aquatic play areas designed for drainage and to be barrier-free.
  • Community Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute 406-327-4427 (wheelchair accessible) A wide variety of warm-water therapy classes designed to improve strength, endurance and flexibility in a comfortable, supportive environment. One-on-one work, or supervised sessions without instruction.

(Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes)

  • Missoula YMCA 406-721-YMCA (wheelchair accessible) Group fitness, aquatic classes, youth sports, and summer camps for people with disabilities, and Area Special Olympics.
  • Missoula Senior Citizens Center 406-543-7154 (wheelchair accessible) Senior exercise classes that focuses on balance training, back strength and core conditioning through Pilates matwork.
  • New Directions Wellness Center (wheelchair accessible) on the campus of The University of Montana provides physical therapy and supervised fitness for persons with physical limitations, chronic conditions, or disabilities. Health promotion program includes a fully equipped fitness facility designed for people with chronic illness or disability.
  • Community Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute 406-327-4427 (wheelchair accessible).
  • Outpatient rehabilitation and physical therapy programs for all ages, including wheelchair evaluations and nutrition services.

(Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options)

  • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”,  disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
  • Fort Fizzle (wheelchair accessible) Historical picnic site with facilities including interpretive signs and accessible trail to fishing access. Restrooms are also accessible.
  • Missoula Parks and Recreation Great website with a wide variety of recreation offerings in Missoula:
    • Youth and Adult Sports and Recreation
    • Trail systems
    • Pools and aquatic centers
    • Blue Bikes Community Bicycle Program
    • Senior Friendly cross-country skiing and snowshoe trips
    • Senior Open Space Tours
    • Children’s Fish Pond

 (Other Programs)

  • Montana Accessible Recreation Opportunities is a joint venture between MonTECH at The University of Montana Rural Institute and the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center: Rocky Mountain Americans with Disabilities Act Center. Its goal is to be a one-stop resource for comprehensive accessibility information for all Montana public recreation lands. The project strives to provide relevant accessibility data using GIS mapping, GPS technology, and a variety of other informational sources to help individuals plan outings at accessible recreational sites. This pilot program is currently limited to Missoula and Ravalli counties. If financial support can be secured, the project will expand to include other areas of Montana and eventually the entire state.  
  • “Celebrating our Abilities” Promotes the abilities of all children and sponsors a free celebration each March in honor of Disabilities Awareness Month. Taking the “dis” out of disabilities. For more information, call Linda Butler (406) 327-6714.
  • Living Art of Montana Promotes the arts and nature in creating healing environments. Conducts half-day to 12-week long workshops for professional caregivers, social work students, healthcare providers and organizations, and individuals with chronic illness and disability. Creates therapeutic gardens in Missoula’s healthcare environments.
  • Additional Information: Missoula Outdoor Recreation and Education (M.O.R.E.) Jason Pignanelli, Outdoor Recreation Specialist 552-6271

Seeley Lake:

  • Montana Accessible Recreation Opportunities is a joint venture between MonTECH at The University of Montana Rural Institute and the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center: Rocky Mountain Americans with Disabilities Act Center. Its goal is to be a one-stop resource for comprehensive accessibility information for all Montana public recreation lands. The project strives to provide relevant accessibility data using GIS mapping, GPS technology, and a variety of other informational sources to help individuals plan outings at accessible recreational sites. This pilot program is currently limited to Missoula and Ravalli counties. If financial support can be secured, the project will expand to include other areas of Montana and eventually the entire state.  

Shelby:

(Aquatic)

  • Shelby City Pool (seasonal) 406-434-5311 (wheelchair accessible) Indoor swimming pool for adults and children. There is a wading pool for small children surrounded by benches and shade. The park also offers picnic tables for picnicking. Water classes offered, with floating devices.

(Fitness Centers/Indoor Classes)

  • Shelby Civic Center 406-434-5114 (wheelchair accessible)  Full Fitness Center and Recreation Center with gym, weight room, and various classes offered. Options for personal training also available. Walking passes available.

(Trails/Walking/Outdoor Options)

  • Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks: Crossing the Barriers Program Site has FWP’s Accessibility & Implementation Plans, regional lists of facilities rated by accessibility from “easy” to “most difficult”,  disability-related articles from Montana Outdoors magazine, descriptions of available outdoor recreation activities, and information on fee exemptions.
  • Roadrunner Trail (wheelchair accessible) 4.5 mile paved walking trail goes around Lake Shel-oole and back into town.
  • City Parks: All are handicapped accessible with sidewalk access, playgrounds, open areas.
    • Lincoln Park (wheelchair accessible)
    • City Hall Park (wheelchair accessible)
    • Johnson Park (wheelchair accessible)
    • Aranow Park (wheelchair accessible)

(Other Programs)

Whitefish:

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National Resources:

Access-Able Travel Source  Information and resources about travel with a special need; disability magazines; access guides for cities, resorts and attractions; wheelchair or scooter rentals; and accessible transportation.

Access Board Federal agency committed to accessible design.

Americans with Disabilities Act: Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities

Accessible Air Travel: A Guide for People with Disabilities from the United Spinal Association.

Accessible Playground Equipment . The World Playground, Parks and Recreation Products and Services Web Directory lists vendors of accessible equipment in the U.S. and Canada.

Accessible Vacation Home Exchange, sponsored by the Independent Living Institute, allows users to add, delete, revise entries, and add photos. Swapping homes with other persons with similar needs, in other parts of the world, is a low-cost and practical alternative.  Travelers can ask potential swap partners specific questions on how accessible the vacation home is.  On arrival, travelers will already have an infrastructure of neighbors and local contacts.

Adaptive Information Resource Center, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, provides a diverse,  coordinated network of sports and recreation resources for children and adults with disabilities and their families.

American Adaptive Badminton Association is the competitive branch for amputees, wheelchair users, and others with disabilities who want to play recreationally and/or compete in regional, national and International competitions.

Association of Travel Instruction supports providers of travel instruction for the purpose of teaching people with disabilities and seniors to travel safely and independently.

Autism Society of America Promotes lifelong access and opportunities for persons within the autism spectrum and their families.

 Travel Tips for Families of People with Autism

AXIS Dance Company creates and performs high quality contemporary dance developed through the collaboration of dancers with and without disabilities. AXIS teaches dance and educates about collaboration and disability through community outreach and education programs. AXIS promotes and supports physically integrated dance, locally, nationally and internationally.

Bicycle Safe Excellent advice for bicyclists on how to avoid being hit by cars.

Bike Helmet Safety Institute Everything there is to know about selecting, buying and using bike helmets.

BlazeSports America In partnership with National Recreation and Parks Association, offers high quality sports instruction, training and competition opportunities to children and adults with physical disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, have a neuro-muscular disability such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida, have an amputation or a visual impairment or blindness. Sports include wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, wheelchair rugby, swimming and track and field. Other sports may be offered by individual BlazeSports Clubs.

The Boulevard Information and resources on accessible travel and lodging, wheelchair-accessible van rentals, accessible-travel specialists, accessible cruises, accessible vacation home exchange; accessible pools and spas; and adaptive fishing, hunting, golf, swimming and bowling equipment.

Boundless Playgrounds National non-profit organization helps communities create playgrounds where children with and without disabilities can play together.

Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center Empowers people of all abilities through high quality outdoor experiences.  Program areas include Adaptive Skiing, the Wilderness Program, and the Professional Challenge Program.

Deaf Globetrotters Travel provides certified sign language interpreters to accommodate travelers on all  escorted tours.

Disabled Sports USA. Offers nationwide sports rehabilitation programs to anyone with a permanent physical disability. Activities include winter skiing, water sports, summer and winter competitions, fitness and special sports events.

Disaboom.com Disability community site for anyone touched by a functional limitation or disability.  Offers a career center, media room, discussion forums, advice on how to stay healthy and active, classifieds, accessibility reviews of businesses and restaurants, and social networking.

Gimp on the Go has travel reviews, tips, news, a photo gallery, bulletin boards and resources for travelers with disabilities.

Let’s Play Project Provides families with ways to play through the use of assistive technology.  Site has articles, success stories and resources on using high and low tech tools.

Little League Challenger Division is a separate division of Little League Baseball to enable boys and girls with physical and mental disabilities, ages 5-18 or the completion of high school, to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide. Teams are set up according to abilities, rather than age, and can include as many as 15-20 players, who can participate in one of three levels: Tee-Ball, Coach-Pitch or Player Pitch.

Mobility Golf is a non-profit organization designed to provide information and advocacy for access to golf courses.

National Accessible Travelers Database Sponsored by Easter Seals Project Action, this database of transit systems is supplemented with information on accessible tours and tour companies, accessible airport and other private shuttles, and accessible taxi services.

National Amputee Golf Association

National Beep Baseball Association is the organization for the adaptive version of baseball for the blind and visually impaired.

National Center for Bicycling & Walking is an advocacy organization supporting bicycle friendly and walkable communities across North America. The center is the major program of the Bicycle Federation of America. The center also provides training in designing pedestrian facilities for accessibility.

National Center on Physical Activity and Disability. Operated by the Department of Disability and Human Development  at the University of Illinois at Chicago, the NCPD works in partnership with the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) and the National Center on Accessibility (NCA) at Indiana University. Offers a variety of resources to help people with disabilities become more active, and also offers resources for fitness and exercise professionals, health professionals, and researchers interested in promoting increased physical activity for people with disabilities.

National Junior Disability Championships Program for children and youth, 7-21 years old, sponsored by Wheelchair and Ambularoty Sports USA. Competitions are held in Olympic-style events including track, field, pentathlon, boccia, swimming, archery, table tennis, 3-on-3 wheelchair basketball and weightlifting.

National Recreation and Park Association advocates to make parks, open space, and recreational opportunities available to all Americans.

National Softball Association of the Deaf

National Theatre of the Deaf produces high-quality theatrically challenging work; performs these original works in a style that links American Sign Language with the spoken word; seeks, trains and employs Deaf artists; offers its work to as culturally diverse and inclusive an audience as possible; provides community outreach activities that educate and enlighten the general public.

North American Riding for the Handicapped Association. Non-profit organization promotes the rehabilitation of individuals with physical, emotional and learning disabilities through equine-facilitated activities at a worldwide network of member therapeutic riding centers.

Region 9 NARHA Association affiliates from Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington

Paralyzed Veterans of America. Provides resources for professionals and for people with paralysis, including “Living with SCI” area, sports and recreation resources, research and education and national advocacy.

President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports encourages all Americans to make being active part of their everyday lives. Web site has sections for children, teens, adults, and seniors.

Recreation: A Great Way to Be Active Published by the North Carolina Office on Disability and Health, this easy to use guide has a step-by-step format to help anyone with a disability plan for more recreation.

Sign-N-Tours especially for deaf/hearing-impaired travelers; provides American sign language interpreters.

SmallStep.gov U.S. Department of Health and Human Services site provides information on diet and exercise that can help individuals improve their health through incremental changes in various habits.

Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality Promotes barrier-free travel for mature travelers and people with disabilities.  Web site links to major airlines and provides info on airline accommodations for travelers with special needs.  SATH sponsors an annual conference.

Special Olympics International organization dedicated to helping children and adults with intellectual disabilities become physically fit, productive and respected members of society. Special Olympics offers year-round training and competition in 26 Olympic-type summer and winter sports.

Teaching, Responding and Communicating Quality Physical Education: Creating Quality, Inclusive Physical Education & Physical Activity for all Students Publication from the North Carolina Office on Disability and Health

Toys R Us Toy Catalog for Differently Abled Kids

Travelin’ Talk Network is a global network of persons with and without disabilities who have joined together and formed a unique family of friends around the world. Members share knowledge about their hometowns, or help other members who are visiting or passing through in case of an emergency. Members can contact others before traveling to that area and get information prior to arriving.

United Spinal Association Provides and supports grass-roots advocacy, sports and recreation, and medical research, and accessibility services.

U.S. Golf Association, Resource Center for Individuals with Disabilities gathers, and makes available, vital information to potential or current golfers with disabilities and other interested members of the golf and medical communities.

U.S. Handcycling Federation is an association of individuals and organizations who share a common goal of health, fitness, and well-being for cyclists of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Handcycling is a form of adaptive cycling that enables athletes of all abilities to ride a “bike” exclusively using the upper body.

U.S. National Park Service

National Parks: Accessible to Everyone lists where paved trails are located, which visitors centers have captioned movies, and how to arrange for sign language interpreters.  New information is being added on an ongoing basis, including links to websites detailing the accessibility features of many individual parks.

VSA Arts Provides tools, resources and education for artists with disabilities, teachers and community organizations. Maintains a registry of visual, performing, and literary artists with disabilities, and an international database of educational research on the arts and disabilities.

Walk Your Way to Fitness: Walk, Workout, Be Active for People with Intellectual Disabilities Fitness course on DVD and CD-ROM by Iris Educational Media.  Designed for adults, support staff and learning partners, Disk 1 features a walking class.  Disk 2, “Work Out with Sonny and Pedro: Walk, Dance and Stretch Your Way to Fitness”, presents workout routines of different lengths.

Wheelchair Getaways Rental franchise provides accessible van rentals for persons with disabilities in 32 states.

Wheelchair Softball Association serves as the governing body for wheelchair softball in the U.S. The game is played under the official rules of 16-inch slow pitch softball as approved by the Amateur Softball Association of America, with some exceptions geared toward the wheelchair user. Teams throughout America compete on a regular basis and hosts several tournaments throughout the summer. The NWSA hosts a national wheelchair softball tournament annually

Wheelchair Sports USA Organized geographically into fourteen regional associations, each responsible for developing local wheelchair sports programs and for conducting qualifying meets for the National Wheelchair Games in archery, track & field, shooting, swimming, table tennis and weightlifting.

Wheelin’ Sportsmen, division of the National Wild Turkey Federation is dedicated to providing people with disabilities, including disabled hunters, disabled anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts, with the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.  Publishes Wheelin’ Sportsmen Magazine.

Wilderness Inquiry Nonprofit organization brings people with and without disabilities together for skiing, canoeing, fishing and hiking vacations.

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Page Last Updated: May 2014