Ready to dive into the snow and make snow angels, enjoy some après-ski, or return to the mountains post-amputation? Finding the right resort or figuring out the logistics of skiing or snowboarding as an amputee can feel daunting - but don't worry!

Movao has created this guide, featuring some of the best adaptive ski resorts worldwide, organizations to support you, and insider tips from our community members Noah Elliott and Annabel Kiki, who are passionate about skiing and snowboarding again as amputees.

"Getting back to skiing was one of my top goals. Of course, I felt anxious about trying it for the first time as an amputee. While there aren't many ski resorts in the UK, Disability Snowsports UK is a fantastic organization. They provide lessons at the indoor snow centres with adaptive instructors and all the equipment, making it a great way to learn the basics before heading to the mountains. This preparation before you go enhances the quality of your time on the slopes and helps avoid frustrations during your ski holiday."

 Annabell Kiki

Annabel Kiki has been skiing since the age of three. After being diagnosed with osteosarcoma at just thirteen, she was told her leg could be saved — but that she would likely never return to sport. Determined to continue her active life, Annabel chose amputation so she could get back to doing what she loves.

Now 17, she’s back on the slopes, skiing with her Genium X3. Annabel highlights the importance of preparation and revisiting the basics before returning to the mountains. Read her blog posts exploring three ski resorts across Europe.

Adaptive Ski Resorts in Europe

Europe is a fantastic destination for adaptive Snowsports, offering breathtaking alpine landscapes, accessible resorts, and a growing commitment to inclusivity and adaptive resorts for everyone and all abilities. In comparison, the adaptive skiing infrastructure may not be as developed as that in North America; however, many European ski resorts have made significant steps in accessibility and have great adaptive programs and communities supporting individuals of all disabilities and abilities.

• Avoriaz, France: With adaptive programs through ESF Disabled Adaptive Ski, a car-free village, and easy access to the slopes, you'll find a range of accessible facilities and adaptive instructors to make your skiing adventure as smooth as possible. For more information, visit Avoriaz Disabled Ski.
• La Plagne, France: Known for its accessible ski infrastructure, La Plagne offers adaptive skiing programs through Oxygène Ski & Snowboard School. With a friendly atmosphere, it's a welcoming destination for skiers of all abilities!
• Val d'Isèred'Isère, France: An excellent resort for adaptive skiing. Contact ESF Disabled and Adaptive Ski for adaptive lessons and equipment rentals that meet your needs. Another great organization in France that can assist you before travel is Handisport.
• Val Thorens, France: is one of the highest ski resorts in Europe. Val Thorens Adaptive Skiing offers exceptional accessibility and adaptive programs to accommodate all abilities, ensuring a fantastic experience on the slopes.
• Sestrière, Italy: This was the site of the 2006 Winter Paralympics, and it has accessible facilities, adaptive instructors, and programs to enhance your skiing. For more information, visit Sestrière Adaptive Skiing.
• Zermatt, Switzerland: The ES Adaptive Ski School has adaptive instructors and provides specialized equipment for skiing and snowboarding, ensuring people of all abilities can enjoy the thrill of the Swiss Alps.
• Davos, Switzerland: Known for its extensive snow sports offerings, Davos features adaptive programs through the Swiss Ski School Davos. They provide tailored lessons and support for skiers with disabilities, making it an excellent destination for adaptive skiing.
• Tirol, Austria: Many ski resorts, including Kaunertal and Alpbach, offer full slope access for mono-skiers, with accessible lifts, helpful staff, and runs for all skill levels and styles. If you need mono-skiing equipment for your winter vacation in Tirol, it can be rented from local specialty shops. Various ski schools also provide lessons with instructors trained specifically in mono-skiing. Find a good overview of all locations here.

"There are so many great accessible resorts in the US! My top three resorts are Winter Park, Colorado, home to the National Sports Centre for the Disabled (NSCD). They have many adaptive programs, with instructors trained to guide you safely through the slopes and ski lifts, making your skiing lessons enjoyable. "

Noah Elliot

Noah Elliott was on the brink of becoming a pro skateboarder when, at fifteen years old, he was diagnosed with a rare cancer. After complicated reconstructive surgeries to try and save his limb, he elected to have it amputated. Now, he is winning gold and bronze medals as a Paralympian snowboarder for the USA. During a guest appearance on Ottobock's  New Boundaries LIVE Talk, Noah recently shared his journey and advice on adaptive ski resorts. Here are his top recommendations:

Adaptive ski resorts in North America

North America is a popular destination for adaptive Snowsports. Its breathtaking scenery, accessible resorts, ski lifts, and wide, gentle slopes are perfect for adaptive Snowsports. Many ski resorts are committed to inclusivity and are leaders in disability Snowsports, offering various adaptive programs for everyone. Ensuring you'll relax, have lots of fun, and make the most of your time in the mountains, regardless of your level.

• Heavenly Ski Resort, California: Excellent for adaptive Snowsports due to its connections with the Achieve Tahoe program, providing adaptive instructors and tailored equipment.
• Aspen/Snowmass, Colorado: Offers adaptive ski instructors through the Challenge Aspen program, accommodating various disabilities with beautiful terrain for all skill levels.
• Mount Bachelor, Oregon: Known for its inclusive programs, Mount Bachelor collaborates with Oregon Adaptive Sports, offering adaptive skiing with stunning Cascade views.
• Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado: Provides excellent adaptive programs through the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC), complete with adaptive instructors and equipment rentals.
• Big Sky Resort, Montana: Features adaptive programs through Eagle Mount, offering skiing and snowboarding lessons tailored for individuals with disabilities across expansive terrain.
• Killington Resort, Vermont: Partnering with Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports, it offers adaptive instructors and equipment in accessible facilities with diverse terrain.
• Lake Louise, Alberta: A fantastic option for adaptive skiers with Rocky Mountain Adaptive (RMA) providing instructors and equipment suited for all abilities.
• Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia: Renowned for its Whistler Adaptive Sports Program (WASP), offering varied adaptive equipment rentals and accessible facilities for all skill levels.

Adaptive winter sport events

Adaptive ski events offer amputees the chance to experience the joy of skiing while building skills at their own pace. With tailored instruction and access to specialised equipment — often at no cost — these events welcome everyone, from complete beginners to those aiming for competitive levels. More than just skiing, they’re about empowerment: building confidence, fostering community, and sparking a lifelong love of winter sports.

Ottobock Winter Sports:

When: 18 - 20 January 2026 in Lipno Ski Resort

This is an annual ski event for amputees allowing participants to try or return to skiing and snowboarding as amputees with free access to equipment and personalized support. Ottobock ortho prosthetists are on-site to fit and adjust PROCARVE® sports prostheses. The event includes prosthesis fitting, trial sessions, ski lessons, and equipment dismantling.

More information here

Adaptive Ski & Snowboarding holidays with Disability Snowsport

Experience the power of powder on an Adaptive Snowsport Holiday with Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK). As the UK’s leading snowsport charity, DSUK has been teaching disabled people to ski and snowboard for over 40 years, offering expert instruction, specialist support, and life-changing experiences that can transform how people see their disability — and what they believe is possible.

More information

Tips for a stress-free adaptive ski holiday

Pre-Plan: Contact resorts in advance and discuss your requirements, your ski level (beginner, intermediate, or advanced), and if adapted equipment and support are available in the resort so you can navigate ski lifts and the mountains with ease. Also, most resorts offer discounts for disabled lift passes and carers.

Equipment: Research what adaptive ski equipment you need and decide whether to bring your skis and boots or rent them at the resort. Always confirm that adaptive equipment is available and reserved for you before travel to ensure a smooth transition to the slopes in the resort.

Take Lessons: Investigate Ski Schools with adaptive instructors qualified to teach the correct techniques, build your confidence, and safely navigate you through lifts and accessible ski slopes suitable for your ability.

Connect: Before you travel, contact local adaptive sports organizations for insights, tips, and advice from amputee skiers and snowboarders. Connecting with others can enhance your holiday arrangements and provide valuable advice.