No, I didn’t try zip-lining, but I did find a great accessible recreation resource in Whistler, BC. Yesterday I had the opportunity to interview a bevy of Whistler tourism and government officials about access improvements for the upcoming 2010 winter games. Suffice it to say they plan to do it right and their goal is to “make Whistler the most accessible mountain community in the world.”
A lofty goal no doubt, but I’m told the folks in Whistler are very competitive and very determined, so I have no doubt it will happen. That’s good news for travelers to the area, as you can expect to find better access as the games approach. The first access upgrades are scheduled to be unveiled next month, and I plan to detail them in the Winter issue of Emerging Horizons.
But back to the zip-lining.
I also had the opportunity to talk with Chelsey Walker of the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program yesterday. In addition to running down the accessible recreation opportunities available through their office, Chelsey also informed me that they are a good referral resource for folks looking to get physical in Whistler. For example, if you are interested in accessible zip-lining, the folks at Whistler Adaptive Sports can tell you what local operator offers this option. What a great service!
The focus at Whistler Adaptive Sports is on integration and they work with a number of local outfitters to produce their programs and classes. To that end they really know what’s happening in the community, and I have to say that because of their visibility the local operators understand the need for accessible recreation offerings. That’s why accessible zip-lining is available in Whistler.
So if a trip to Whistler is on your travel calendar, then contact the folks at Whistler Adaptive Sports. I’m sure they will have some great suggestions for you! For more information about their offerings, visit their website at http://www.whistleradaptive.com/programs.php.