Experience the magic that is ice skating on Alberta’s unforgettable lakes and rinks.
Family friendly and accessible
Ice skating is approachable for anyone. Lace up and enjoy a relaxing day on the ice at your own pace, whether you’re an advanced skater or just learning. Indoor and outdoor rinks, lakes, ponds and skating trails offer the perfect destination to hone your skills or try for the first time.
It doesn’t get more Canadian than this
Grab your stick, gloves and a puck and hit the ice for a game of pond hockey. It’s a tradition so Canadian that it was even depicted on the five dollar bill for a time. You’ll find games popping up everywhere from small town ponds to the postcard-worthy destination of Lake Louise.
There are indoor rinks and arenas in nearly every city and small town around Alberta as well, with public skate sessions and pickup games frequently on the schedule.
Skate through wild scenery
Alberta is home to endless opportunities for skating through epic landscapes. From meticulously cleared outdoor rinks in the mountains to opportunities for wild skating on wind-cleared lakes, this is the place for photo-worthy fun on skates. You can even skate under the light of twinkling stars for the ultimate wild skating experience. Keep an eye out for the northern lights too!
Did you know?
The Olympic Oval, constructed for the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, continues to serve as a world class training facility for speed skating.
Frequently asked questions
Temperatures can vary during an Alberta winter, but generally you can wear whatever you would while walking around in similar temperatures. A warm jacket, mittens or gloves, warm socks and pants will often suffice unless it is bitterly cold.
Generally no, although if you are skating at an indoor facility or regulated outdoor rink you should check with the facility for any age restrictions.
Not unless you want to! Many of the popular lake destinations, such as Lake Louise and Pyramid Lake in Jasper will have rental facilities nearby where you can rent a pair of skates. Many indoor and outdoor facilities will also have skate rentals available.
If you are headed to an indoor rink or an outdoor rink that is also used by practicing hockey teams, figure skaters or other groups, there may be regulated public skating sessions. It is best to check with the facility either by calling or checking online before you arrive.
Sure thing! Bringing hot chocolate and snacks to the rink is about as Canadian as it gets, though many indoor facilities and the more popular outdoor skating areas may have concession stands and food and beverage stations available as well.
Indoor skating sessions can vary depending on the facility and the age of the participants, but generally the cost ranges from around $5 to $16 depending on the facility. Skate rentals are typically an additional charge to take into consideration, which can vary widely by facility.