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With the sun deep in the southern horizon and a chill in the air, it’s time to lace up those skates. Ice skates that is. The High Sierra has plenty of options both indoor and outdoor where you can strap on a pair of blades and hit a frozen rink. Here’s just a few of the spots you can go ice skating in the High Sierra.

Curry Village Ice Skating Rink

Half Dome Village Rink Ice Skating In The High Sierra
Image appears courtesy: Visit Yosemite | Madera County

Welcome to one of the most celebrated winter-time traditions in Yosemite National Park. Visitors have enjoyed hitting the slick stuff since 1928 in the Curry Village. Even if gliding on a sheet of ice doesn’t take your breath away, the scenery sure will. The rink offers up spectacular views of Half Dome & Glacier Point.

Long Barn Ice Skating Rink

Long Barn Lodge Ice Rink Ice Skating In The High Sierra
Image appears courtesy: Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau

Want a guarantee that the ice will be perfect? Long Barn Lodge offers a popular indoor ice rink for all levels of skaters. It’s been a family-favorite winter destination for decades. And for those that haven’t ice skated before, they provide both private and group lessons to make sure you maximize the fun level.  

Northstar California Ice Skating Rink

Northstar Ice Skating Rink Ice Skating In The High Sierra
Image appears courtesy: NLT Chamber of Commerce

Located in the heart of The Village at Northstar, the 9,000 square foot arena is the perfect ending to your day in the mountains. Recapture your childhood moments on the skating rink in the Village center. After you’re done gliding on the ice or maybe just need a break, enjoy an adult cocktail at the Cabana bar or a hot cocoa next to the many fire pits surrounding the picturesque venue. Not near Northstar? Well, be sure to check out the vast list of rinks that are available in North Lake Tahoe.

Truckee Ice Rink

For those that want to try their hand at the outdoor kind of ice skating, Truckee Ice Rink is a wonderful option. Located just a half mile outside of the Historic Town of Truckee, it offers up some great skating. Typically open by mid-November you’ll find skate rentals and a snack bar alongside a toasty bonfire. If it’s your first time or just need to brush up on your skating both private and group private lessons are available for all ages. This is just a sampling of the family fun to be found in and around Truckee. 

There are few things more enjoyable on a winter’s day than a good skate. Lucky for us, the High Sierra is home to some epic indoor and outdoor ice rinks offering many opportunities to get out there and enjoy it. Don’t let the season pass by without getting at least one session of skating in.

Author: Alex Silgalis

Alex Silgalis is an outdoors travel writer who enjoys snowboarding, mountain biking, or having a cold one from a local mountain brewery. See more of Alex’s work at https://localfreshies.com

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Come Back With A Legendary Fish Tale

Be the one that comes home with grand tales of the “monster” you caught and the envy of all your pals. When it comes to fishing, the lakes in the High Sierra offer you some of the best in the world.
Calaveras Frog Jumping Contest

3 Amazing Bucket List Festivals In The High Sierra

From the crazy pack scramble to hot power sawing and even leaping frogs, these three High Sierra festivals showcase what makes this region so special.
Parker Lake Fishing in Mono County

Merry Fishmas – Trout Fishing Season in the High Sierra is Upon Us

Catching the “Big One” is a relaxing way to get away from the stress of everyday life and a picturesque way to get to know the California High Sierra. All you need is a little bait, maybe a boat and a love of the great outdoors to fish the High Sierra.
sequoia national park big trees hike

Kid Friendly Activities In The High Sierra

Don’t let another weekend or vacation pass by without exploring one of these many kid friendly activities in the High Sierra.
Majestic Yosemite Hotel Historic Lodges In The High Sierra

Historic Lodges In The High Sierra

Historic lodges in the High Sierra are more than just a place to rest up between experiences. They qualify as destinations in their own right. Here's a glimpse into some of the most legendary.

California High Sierra – April & May is the “Secret” Ski Season

With ski season slated to last through Memorial Day and a bright warm sun returning, spring is the season of adventure in every shape and size in the High Sierra.
WinterWonderGrass Tahoe

Celebrate The Coming Of Spring With Fantastic Spring-time Festivities

Spring means your opportunities for a multi-sport day of adventure & fun in the California High Sierra are boundless. Start the day on the slopes followed by a warm bike ride & finish it off with any one of these amazing festivals.
off roading in the High Sierra

Pavement – Shmavement – Off Roading In The High Sierra

Get off the beaten path & explore the rugged side of the Sierra Nevada. You won’t regret it!
Christmas festivals in the high sierra

Christmas Festivals In The High Sierra

Get in the holiday spirit by checking out one of the many Christmas festivals in the High Sierra. From one-of-a kind experiences like the Bracebridge Dinner to festive parades.
Halloween in the High Sierra

Spook-tacular Fun For Halloween In The High Sierra

Make this year's holiday a special one by heading into the High Sierra for some Halloween fun. Here's a snippet of the fun you can find this “spooky” season.
Thunder Bird Lodge

High Sierra Museums – Tell A Story

High Sierra museums offer a unique glimpse at the history that exists in the Sierra Nevada. Both residents and visitors alike, will come away learning & truly appreciating the region that much more.
Cougar Rock Guided Hikes in the High Sierra Arnold Rim Trail

Epic Guided Hikes Of The High Sierra

Maximize your time & get an insider’s look at the majestic mountain range in a whole other way by checking out one of these guided hikes.
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad Railroading Family Vacation Ideas in the High Sierra

One Last Family Fun Extravaganza To Finish The Summer Right!

Don't let the last glimmer of summertime pass you up without one more family trip to the High Sierra. Here are 3 family vacation ideas that will make everyone happy!
Resort at Squaw Creek golf course

Golfing In The High Sierra

Perhaps it’s the quaint towns, invigorating mountain air or maybe the elevation. Who knows exactly... but it makes the perfect recipe for your next golfing adventure.
Bristlecone Pine Forest

4 Must-See Natural Attractions In The High Sierra

Looking for a bucket list of natural wonders to see? Here's four worth exploring from the well-known to some hidden gems that exist deep in the High Sierra.
Kayaking Lake Tahoe Sunset

From Adrenaline-Pumping to Serenity – Here’s 3 Kayaking Adventures In The High Sierra

While there are always new fitness fads out there, why not try a classic – Kayaking! It’s one of those activities that puts you right in the center of nature and provides an excellent workout. We love paddling & think kayaking in the High Sierra is some of the best in the world.

Camping In The High Sierra

The Sierra Nevada gives the BEST of both worlds. It cools off at night, letting you sleep comfortably while warming up during the day for activities like fishing and hiking. Remember... summer is only so long so get out there and enjoy it!
Travertine Hot Springs Mono County

Soak Your Way To Health On A Hot Springs Adventure

The High Sierra hot springs run the full gambit of amenities when it comes to rest and relaxation. From amenity-free to luxurious, you’ll find the pool that fits your needs. Come visit for a soak and create an adventure of your own.

Three Family Adventures in the High Sierra

The High Sierra is a great, big, wonder-filled playground perfect for families. These family adventures are just waiting to engage, inspire and entertain everyone - and make you healthier and happier.

Sampling Of What Mountain Biking High Sierra Has To Offer

From first-timers to seasoned mountain bikers, these are just a sampling of the best lift-served / shuttle accessed mountain biking High Sierra has to offer. So, go ahead and plan a getaway to let yourself breathe the fresh air and melt your cares away along one of these epic trails.
Tuolumne Grove Giant Sequoia - Kim Carroll

Sequoias – Modern Day Equivalent of Jack and the Giant Beanstalk

The California High Sierra is famous for its soaring mountains, deep canyons, roaring waterfalls and the only NATURAL home of the giant sequoias. Existing only on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada, these groves of giant redwoods must be seen in person to really capture their grandeur.
Columbia State Historic Park Dog Friendly Trip Ideas in the High Sierra

Pet Friendly Trips in the High Sierra

These are just a few of the adventures you can have with your pup in the High Sierra. The opportunities are endless and each region is host to a large assortment of places to stay and eat. So, the next time your thinking of an adventure with your furry friend, come visit the California High Sierra.
Tahoe Mountain Brewing Truckee Tahoe City Microbrewery High Sierra Apres Skiing

Apres In The High Sierra From Craft Beer To Organic Cocktails

Après & skiing have been intertwined since the advent of sliding down a mountain was perfected. Here's a few places you can enjoy a locally made brew, or for the less beer-inclined, a handcrafted organic cocktail as part of your Apres in the High Sierra.

Romantic California Mountain Getaway

Indulge in the luxurious side of the High Sierra with fine dining, spa packages and of course, the best wines California has to offer. From sightseeing and stargazing to golf and sunbathing, couples are sure to find something to bond over while exploring the best of California.

East Side Adventures

Bike, ski, climb and paddle your way through the High Sierra during this epic weeklong road trip. Experience a night under the stars followed by a day discovering California’s unique dining options. Pack some camping gear and don’t forget to bring the camera on this east side adventure.

High Sierra Sampler

For those who like to play as hard as they work, the High Sierra offers plenty of opportunity. From late nights and live music in South Lake Tahoe to backcountry adventures in Yosemite National Park the adventure doesn’t stop until you throw in the towel.

Outdoor Excursions in the Southern Sierra

Giant sequoias, raging waterfalls and Yosemite Valley vistas are just a few of the adventures to enjoy in the Southern Sierra. Families, couples and explorers of all ages will find plenty to discover during this weeklong adventure.

A High Sierra Playground

An adventure for families and the young at heart, this trip explores California’s rich history while taking explorers from the Tahoe Basin to the Central Valley. Discover local cuisine and outdoor recreation in all seasons with the whole family. The Reno-Tahoe airport is the gateway to the region and offers daily shuttle services to Truckee, North and South Lake Tahoe.

A Cultural Tour of the High Sierra

Explore the culinary adventures, art and history in California’s High Sierra with this 6-day trip.

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