#United States #Rochester #Accessibility #Vermont Adaptive #Outdoor Center

New Vermont Adaptive Outdoor Center: A Groundbreaking Initiative

In a significant development for outdoor recreation and accessibility, Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports has made an impactful purchase of over 125 acres in Rochester, Vermont. This landmark acquisition, completed in partnership with the Vermont Land Trust (VLT), marks the establishment of the first ever adaptive outdoor education and retreat center in the state.

The sale, finalized on December 15, 2025, aimed to create a foundation for multi-day retreats and programming that will serve a diverse user base, including veterans with disabilities and individuals seeking wellness programming. The property, now referred to as the Vermont Adaptive Outdoor Center, is equipped with various facilities, offering numerous opportunities for community engagement and personal growth in a natural setting.

The site includes a historic farmhouse, barn, and access to an extensive trail network connected to the Ridgeline Outdoor Collective’s Rochester Valley Network and the larger Velomont Trail system. Erin Fernandez, the executive director of Vermont Adaptive, expressed that this new center provides an unprecedented resource, allowing the organization to curate programs promoting health, community, and mindfulness.

Tracy Zschau, the president and CEO of the Vermont Land Trust, praised the partnership, highlighting the vital role of accessible nature experiences in connecting people to the land. Through conservation efforts, the Vermont Adaptive Outdoor Center will serve as a platform for outdoor recreational activities, ensuring public access while safeguarding the environment.

For nearly forty years, Vermont Adaptive has provided inclusive programming across various locations, but this center will be its first property under organizational ownership. The expansion into multiple-day retreats aligns with their long-term objective to develop comprehensive, affordable housing options for interns and enhance programming specifically tailored for veterans.

Regarding the property’s legacy, it was previously stewarded by the George Dean Martin and Mary Ann Martin Trust, maintaining the outdoor space since 1989. Their commitment to environmental conservation complements the objectives of both Vermont Adaptive and the Vermont Land Trust.

The conservation easement guarantees the land will remain undisturbed for public usage and recreational purposes, with plans to revamp facilities and create accessible bathrooms, yurts, camping platforms, and upgraded pathways. These improvements will ensure the facility is inclusive for all visitors, emphasizing wellness, reflection, and education.

Gus Seelig, executive director of the Vermont Housing Conservation Board, voiced appreciation for the project, recognizing it as an ideal model of conservation, accessibility, and community enhancement. The center’s anticipated success is expected to contribute significantly to Rochester's burgeoning outdoor recreation economy, while concurrently preserving crucial natural resources, including forests and wetlands that feed into the White River watershed.

Preparations are already underway for a ribbon-cutting ceremony set for spring 2026, which will mark the official opening of this transformative center. This initiative highlights Vermont Adaptive’s dedication to promoting inclusive outdoor recreation, empowering individuals of all abilities, and fostering a sense of community.

Conclusion

The Vermont Adaptive Outdoor Center represents a new chapter for both the organization and the Rochester community. Through its inclusive programming and commitment to accessibility, it sets a standard demonstrating how outdoor spaces can be welcoming and beneficial for everyone, especially those with disabilities.

For additional information, updates, and resources regarding this initiative, interested parties are encouraged to visit Vermont Adaptive’s website.