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
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.
Tenaya At Yosemite
Another option for those visiting Yosemite is the ice rink at Tenaya Lodge. Situated in Fish Camp just outside the park, it’s an ideal way to finish your day after exploring the national park. Glide on the 80’ x 40’ rink surrounded by twinkling holiday lights. Afterward, unwind by the fire pit and then savor a delicious meal in one of the many restaurants in the historic town of Mariposa.
Long Barn Ice Skating Rink
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.
Heavenly Village Outdoor Ice-Skating Rink
Hitting up the slopes of Heavenly Mountain? Then be sure to take in the charming ice-skating rink nestled within Heavenly Village on Lake Tahoe’s south shore. Picture-perfect with holiday lights and music, it’s like stepping into a classic Christmas movie. To explore this ice-skating spot and others in South Lake Tahoe, delve into Visit Lake Tahoe’s article.
LA Kings Ice at Mammoth Lakes
Cap off a thrilling day on Mammoth Mountain’s renowned slopes with ice skating at the newly constructed LA Kings indoor ice rink in Mammoth Lakes. Nestled within the brand-new Community Recreation Center, discover an Olympic-size indoor ice-skating rink. Whether you’re seeking a pickup hockey game or a relaxed skating session with family and friends, this indoor rink is a fantastic addition to your winter getaway.
Northstar California Ice Skating Rink
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 founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
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