Creating community and connection in the outdoors with Adaptive Adventures
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In September, we teamed up with Adaptive Adventures for an unforgettable inclusive outdoor adventure in the West Kootenays. Our collaboration with Adaptive Adventures is rooted in a shared commitment to making outdoor recreation accessible to everyone. Together, we’re working to support inclusive and accessible experiences so everyone can connect with nature and enjoy the many benefits of spending time outdoors.
If you’re unfamiliar with Adaptive Adventures and the incredible work they do, they’re an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers in outdoor recreation. Below, Adaptive Adventures shares the story of their roots, mission and programs:
Adaptive Adventures began in 2001 with a simple belief: the outdoors offers healing, purpose, and community for every person, regardless of ability. What started as the Community Recreational Initiatives Society (CRIS) grew from local trail outings into something much larger – a movement to remove barriers and make nature accessible for all.
As we expanded, two clear paths emerged. Some people wanted calm, supported days outside to reconnect with nature at their own pace. Others longed for something deeper and more demanding: remote landscapes, meaningful challenge, and the kind of adventure that transforms you. To honour both journeys, Adaptive Adventures became the parent brand for two specialized programs:
- Adaptive Outdoor Recreation offers day-based local outings. Participants can hike, cycle, kayak, paddleboard, snowshoe, and simply enjoy being outside with no expectations, just support, adaptive gear, and a caring team.
- Adaptive Wilderness Expeditions offers bold single and multi-day backcountry experiences that come in the form of pre-planned trips, or from participants’ desires and dreams. Participants step into remote, well-supported challenges that push the boundaries of what they thought possible. You don’t need to be an athlete, just willing to try. These journeys are immersive, emotional, and deeply human.
No matter the program, our vision remains the same: an inclusive world where people with physical, cognitive, intellectual, or sensory impairments can experience the therapeutic power of outdoor recreation. Our mission is to foster independence, reduce isolation, build confidence, and support personal growth through accessible outdoor and wilderness activities. Every outing, whether a gentle paddle or a rugged expedition, is designed to promote empowerment, self-respect, and connection.
Together, our programs ensure that one day on a trail can open the door to a lifetime of possibility.
Event highlights
Kokanee Creek and Kokanee Glacier Parks offered the perfect backdrop for connection, learning, and new memories. From serene paddles to mountain views, here’s a peek at what went down:
Evening barbeque at Kokanee Creek Park
The Adaptive Adventures team and participants were welcomed to a barbeque at Kokanee Creek Park at an accessible picnic site at the Friends Day-Use Area. The backdrop of Kootenay Lake provided the perfect setting to settle in and make new connections.
Paddle on Gibson Lake and hike in Kokanee Glacier Park.
On Saturday morning, the team ventured to Kokanee Glacier Park for a serene paddle on Gibson Lake, lakeside lunch and afternoon hike around the lake.
What surprised you about this trip?
“The range in which AWE trips can accommodate. Whether it be a “simple” camping trip to more complicated ones such as rafting. Having that variability gives all sorts of clients the opportunities in which they can feel like they’ve done something adventurous.” – Jacky, volunteer.
What is one word or phrase you’d use to describe this trip?
“Hopes and dreams reignited” Stacey Grant, participant.
Nature Center and spawning channel tour at Kokanee Creek Park.
Naturalist Joanne Siderius and interpreter Gary Munro from the Kokanee Creek Nature Center shared the wonders of Kokanee Creek Park with the group, including a tour of the Nature Center and the spawning channel.
What was the highlight of the trip for you?
“WOW! So many things really. The fact that I was actually out camping once again after a 7+ year hiatus was amazing. The campground and lake were beautiful. The facilities were accessible. The paddling was so peaceful and serene. But I must say, the team of people that made up CRIS and AWE were unbelievable. They went above and beyond to make sure us three ladies were well looked after” – Stacey Grant, participant.
This event was a great reminder of the strength of community partnerships and the incredible possibilities that emerge when we unite around a shared vision. This event was made possible in part through the BC Parks Licence Plate Program. The support from this program is instrumental in advancing our efforts toward a more accessible and inclusive outdoors.
Be sure to follow along with Adaptive Adventures on social media, at @AdaptiveAdventurescan on Facebook and at @adaptiveadventures_ on Instagram. Head to their website to learn more about their work and upcoming trips.
