What a way to kick off the summer!
Our first week of summer programs was packed with adventure, new milestones, and unforgettable moments. Beginning with our community Open Water Safety Try-It-Day at Alice Lake Provincial Park in Squamish to breaking new ground with our new Adaptive Mountain Bike Program at Whistler Mountain Bike Park. Week 1 of our 8 week summer programs showcased the power of inclusive recreation and the incredible community that makes it all possible.
Starting from our on-mountain Jeff Harbers Adaptive Sports Centre, rider Brennan joined coaches Julia and Brooke, alongside Bike Park Coordinator Sean, to make a little piece of Whistler Adaptive history. The session marks an exciting new chapter for adaptive mountain biking, opening the door for more riders with disabilities to experience one of the world’s most iconic bike parks.
Participants and families explored essential water safety skills through fun, hands-on activities both on land and in the water. The day laid the foundations for a summer of open water swimming and paddlesports, helping participants build confidence to enjoy our lakes safely. Big thanks to SPARC BC for their support.
A week of paddlesports, 2-wheel, aMTBing, hiking and yoga lessons across Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton concluded with the first of two summer Adrenaline Weekender Camps delivered in partnership with Spinal Cord Injury BC, welcoming young adults under 30 from across British Columbia for an action-packed weekend in the Sea to Sky.
With an even bigger fleet of adaptive bikes to choose from this year, including our brand-new Bowhead Reach, generously funded through a grant from the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation, participants spent the weekend discovering the freedom of adaptive mountain biking. From scenic group rides along the Sea to Sky Trail to building skills and friendly competition at the pump track, it wasn’t long before everyone had firmly caught the adaptive mountain biking bug.
The adventure didn’t stop on land. Participants also took to the water on beautiful Alta Lake, trying adaptive kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding. Whether it was paddling across the lake, sharing laughs with friends or challenging themselves to try something new, the paddlesports session was another highlight of a weekend filled with confidence-building, connection and outdoor adventure.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our coaches, volunteers, partners and supporters who make these experiences possible. Your passion, expertise and generosity help create a community where everyone can experience the joy of adventure. We’re only one week in, and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the summer brings!