About Our Programs
Montgomery Parks’ Program Access Team, in partnership with Montgomery Parks’ Natural Surface Trails Team, Catalyst Sports, and Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts, provides opportunities for participants with disabilities to experience the thrill of mountain biking all season long. Our programs provide access to a variety of adaptive mountain bikes that can meet the needs of many riders. Our clinics and groups rides are facilitated by BICP certified adaptive mountain biking instructors and supported by qualified, dedicated volunteers. Contact our Inclusion and Adaptive Sports Specialist, Amanda Espinoza, if you want to learn more about our programs and volunteer opportunities.
Program Opportunities
Adaptive Mountain Biking Clinics (PPACC0019)
All experience levels are welcome to join Montgomery Parks, Catalyst Sports and the Mid-Atlantic Off-Road Enthusiasts to take part in the thrill of mountain biking. A variety of adaptive bikes will be available to borrow, ensuring participants have the best fit for their needs. Detailed information about available bikes, eligibility requirements, and trails will be provided upon registration and on our website for our Spring and Fall clinic.
There will be two 90-minute sessions that include:
-Program orientation
-Bike fittings and transfers
-Introductory instruction to the bike
-Time to ride the trail
Volunteer support riders will join participants on the trail to provide assistance and ensure safety throughout the ride.
Adaptive Mountain Biking Group Rides (PPACC0026)
Experienced returning riders looking to tackle longer or more technical trails are welcome to join our Adaptive Mountain Biking Group Rides. These monthly rides, offered in partnership with Catalyst Sports and the Mid-Atlantic Off Road Enthusiasts, provide opportunities for fun, social rides for both adaptive athletes and mountain biking volunteers. Multiple pace groups may be offered, with rides averaging 8–10 miles. Riders will be accompanied by volunteer ride leaders and support riders to ensure a safe and supportive experience. Information about available handcycle, foot-pedal, and prone bikes can be found on the program webpage. Bike assignments are based on availability on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is required.
Adaptive Mountain Biking Roots-To-Rocks Group Rides (PPACC0012)
Returning riders seeking to build skills and confidence are welcome to join our beginner-friendly Adaptive Mountain Biking Roots-to-Rocks Group Ride, part of Montgomery Parks’ Roots-to-Rocks mountain biking program. This family-friendly, “party pace” ride is designed to be safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for all participants.
Riders will be accompanied by volunteer support riders to ensure a positive experience on rides averaging 5 miles. Participants can sign up to ride our Lasher Recumbent Handcycle or TerraTrike Recumbent Foot-Pedal Trike, depending on which bike best fits their needs. Registration is required.
Essential Eligibility for Adaptive Mountain Biking
- Rider must be able to make safe cognitive decisions in a fast-paced changing environment.
- Riders can follow safety precautions.
- Riders can hold their head upright without head and/or neck support.
- Rider can wear a properly fitted and rated bike helmet and any other safety equipment appropriately.
- Rider can understand and follow multiple-step instructions in a fast-paced environment.
- Rider can transfer in and out of the bike independently or with some assistance.
- Rider can remain alert and focused for the duration of the ride, making quick decisions on variable terrain.
- Rider can demonstrate the ability to pedal, steer, stop, start, and navigate different terrain appropriate for their experience level.
Montgomery Parks’ Adaptive Mountain Bikes
Lasher Recumbent Handcycle
An All-Terrain Handcycle designed for comfort and control, featuring adjustable seat settings.
All brake, steering, and propulsion come from the hands. Pedal assist is available to help navigate difficult terrain. This bike is suitable for persons with sufficient grip strength to operate a hand brake and transferring into the Lasher requires lower limb flexibility. The riding position is seated, recumbent, and low.
TerraTrike All Terrain
A foot-pedaled recumbent bike designed for trail riding in a seated position. It features a wide range of gears and power assist to handle the hills, with a wide track for added balance. This bike is suitable for riders who can pedal but need a recumbent trike’s stability and seating position. Grip strength is required to operate the brakes.
Our Partners
Thank you to our partners for supporting our programs.