Our story at Access Mammoth

Access Mammoth, formally known as Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra (DSES), was founded by Kathy Copeland as part of Disabled Sports USA in 2003. We began by offering adaptive ski lessons at Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort. Over the years, we’ve expanded into a year-round nonprofit delivering personalized outdoor adventures with advanced equipment and leading-edge adaptive recreation techniques. What started with a few volunteers and donated gear has grown into a thriving mountain community where people of all ages and abilities can fully experience—and enjoy—the outdoors.

At the heart is a clear, powerful mission:

Access Mammoth embraces the opportunity to include everybody in mountain sports. We break down barriers to participation, allowing people to enjoy each other while pursuing their passions in sports.

At the heart of Access Mammoth is a clear, powerful mission: We create fun, inclusive mountain sports experiences for people of every age and ability.

meet our team

at access mammoth, our team is a passionate group of instructors, staff, and volunteers dedicated to making outdoor recreation accessible to everyone.

Access Mammoth Team Members
Access Mammoth Board and Leadership Team

board & advisors

Access Mammoth’s team of guides, advocates, and leaders creates year-round inclusive recreation—expanding access, reimagining possibilities, and building spaces where everyone belongs.

our impact report: by the numbers

Since 2003, we have provided year-round adaptive sports for people of all ages and abilities. From personalized lessons to multi-day camps and veteran programs, our deeply certified instructors, highly trained volunteers, and state-of-the-art adaptive equipment help thousands experience the outdoors with confidence and joy.

2023-2024 Access Mammoth year in review snapshot:

Access Mammoth by the numbers
Access Mammoth Our Impact infographic image for mobile

our locations

Access Mammoth delivers life-changing programs across our region:

Group of adaptive skiers using mono-skis on a snowy mountain slope with scenic alpine peaks in the background.

mammoth mountain

Renowned for world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter, it transforms into an adventure-filled summer destination when the snow melts.

Image of Access Mammoth's Second Chance Thrift Shop Location image of shelves with boots

second chance thrift shop

The Second Chance Thrift Shop supports Access Mammoth by funding our outdoor adventures.

Access Mammoth Jack and Kathy Copeland center AI Rendering of building in front of an Eastern Sierra landscape

the jack & kathy copeland center

The Copeland Center in June Lake, CA, is a year-round retreat offering a peaceful, inclusive space for military members, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and others facing barriers to outdoor access.