Last Updated on April 2, 2023 by foxintheforest
For jumps, twirls, and plenty of wintery fun there’s nothing quite like ice skating in Colorado. Plenty of beautiful scenery, rosy cheeks, and smiles away at some of the top ice skating areas in the Centennial State.
When it comes to the world of ice skating in Colorado, there are endless options for all ability levels. From maintained ice rinks to frozen lakes, there’s a lot to get exciting about.
As a local of over 13 years, I know the best spots to strap on your skates in Colorado. If you’re looking to enjoy the best ice rinks around, look no further than this guide.
About this Guide to Ice Skating in Colorado
When it comes to ice skating in Colorado, locals know best. Inside this guide you’ll find:
- Basic info about ice skating in Colorado
- The best ice skating in Colorado
- Top ice skating near Denver
- Additional winter activities in Colorado
Can You Go Ice Skating in Colorado?
Absolutely! Colorado is a great place to strap on your skates. There are a variety of rinks. From year-round indoor ice arenas to seasonally frozen lakes.
Typically, it’s not cold (or safe) enough to ice skate outside on a lake until mid-January. But it all depends on the weather, so be sure to check current conditions before heading out.
Can You Ice Skate on Lakes in Colorado?
Absolutely! There are a variety of lakes across Colorado that are open for ice skating. Super-advanced skaters with solid safety knowledge can even hike to frozen lakes and skate.
However, doing this requires you to take on all risks and bring your own gear.
The Best Ice Skating in Colorado
From alpine lakes to mountain resort rinks, here are the best places to lace up your skates and go ice skating in Colorado. I’ve broken it down by geographical areas so you can plan your skate date in a breeze.
Ice Skating Near Denver
Wanna strap on your skates near the Mile High City? There are plenty of places to ice skate near Denver if you don’t want a long drive.
Just keep in mind that the weather can be warmer and some areas aren’t open as long as those found higher up in the mountains.
Evergreen Lake
About 45 minutes from the city, you’ll find one of the most popular places for ice skating near Denver at Evergreen Lake.
This 8.5-acre lake in the foothills offers plenty of room for public skating, along with several rinks for hockey, and is the largest Zamboni-maintained outdoor ice skating rink in the world.
While Evergreen Lake ice skating can get crowded, gliding across the ice surrounded by trees and mountain views is a classic Colorado experience in Evergreen, CO.
Local tip: Since this is an outdoor rink, weather conditions (particularly warm weather) can affect the operating hours, so it’s always a good idea to call the rink hotline at 720-880-1391 before heading to ice skate at Evergreen Lake.
- Cost: $10/person
- Rentals Available: Yes, $7/pair
Downtown Denver Rink
For an urban ice skating experience, check out the Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park.
Though this rink is tiny, it’s fun to hit the ice then grab some hot cocoa or hit up a happy hour at a nearby cafe or bar on the 16th Street Mall. Plus, you can skate at the rink for free if you have your own skates!
- Cost: Free
- Rentals Available: Yes, $9/pair
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Located right between Golden and Boulder, Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a great place to visit to find things to do in Colorado in the winter besides ski.
Beyond hiking, snowshoeing, and rock climbing, the park also has two ponds – the Ranch Pond and Visitor Center Pond – that are open for ice skating when they freeze over.
You can make a classic Colorado day by exploring all the winter activities in Golden Gate State Park.
- Cost: $10/vehicle (or State Parks Pass) to enter the park
- Rentals Available: No
Frozen Fire Rink
Another awesome spot to check out for ice skating near Denver is the Frozen Fire Rink in Idaho Springs.
This synthetic ice rink never melts, so it can be open in any season, but be sure to check the operating hours before grabbing your skates.
For a unique experience, kids and adults alike can have a blast riding around the rink in special ice bumper cars.
- Cost: $7/person
- Rentals Available: Yes, included in ticket price
Ice Skating in the Colorado Mountains
If you’re looking for a real Rocky Mountain adventure, then check out all of the areas to go ice skating in Colorado’s high country. These areas are a bit further from the urban Front Range, but well worth the effort to get there.
Dorsey Lake
Nestled near Rocky Mountain National Park, you can skate with a view at Dorsey Lake located in the YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center.
Admire the peaks of the Rocky Mountains at one of the most beautiful places in Colorado as you skate around the lake in a serene setting.
Local Tip: As one of the more popular things to do in Estes Park during the winter, this place does fill up, so plan accordingly.
- Cost: $25 day pass (free for lodging guests)
- Rentals Available: Yes, included in admission
Can you Ice Skate on Lake Estes?
When it comes to ice skating in Colorado, Lake Estes is often one of the first places that comes to mind. However, the closest ice skating to Lake Estes is Dorsey Lake.
Managed by the YMCA, you’ll need to pay to visit, but if you’re looking to ice skate near Lake Estes, it’s your best bet.
Can You Ice Skate on Georgetown Lake?
Yup! Georgetown Lake (in Georgetown) is a place where you can strap on your skates once the water is frozen.
Just keep in mind that this location is right along the side of I-70 (it’s very loud, and usually quite windy). Not to mention there are a lot of people ice fishing nearby.
There is no official ice rink or area at Georgetown Lake, so you’ll be assuming all risks on your own. Check with the town beuro before setting out.
Rotary Park Rink
Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is one of the most special mountain towns in Colorado. Along with the world-renowned ice climbing, Ouray also offers ice skating at the Rotary Park Rink.
The rink is maintained by local volunteers, so it has a special community vibe. You can skate under the stars when the lights are turned on at night, and a cozy warming hut also has a small selection of skates you can borrow.
Local tip: For an incredible après skate experience, head to the nearby Ouray or Orvis Hot Springs to soak in one of the most relaxing hot springs in Colorado.
- Cost: Free
- Rentals Available: Limited skates available to borrow for free
Winter Park Village Pond
Right in the heart of the village of Winter Park, you’ll find a lovely little skating rink at the Village Pond.
You can skate for free under the peaks of the Continental Divide or rent skates from Adventure & Supply Co in the village. Every Saturday from 5-7pm, a DJ provides the soundtrack for cosmic skating.
- Cost: Free
- Rentals Available: $19 for 1-hour adult skate rental
Beaver Creek Ice Rink
The Beaver Creek Ice Rink is a perfect place to take a break from hitting the slopes at the resort while enjoying some of the best ice skating in Colorado.
The whole family can get in on the fun, and there are even plush couches surrounding the rink to rest your weary legs.
But if you want to try a different leg workout, you can rent cool ice bikes for $25 and pedal your way around the rink!
- Cost: $5/person
- Rentals Available: Yes, $10/pair
Vail Resort Rinks
For some of the most epic ice skating in Colorado, head to the mountain resort of Vail. The Alderhoff Ice Rink in Vail Square makes it feel like you’re skating in the middle of a Bavarian Village.
Fire pits surround the rink so you can warm up while you soak in the ambiance.
The Solaris Rink in Vail Village is ideally located right by all the village amenities, including modern restaurants and luxury shopping. This rink also often features special skating performances and events during the winter.
Enjoy one of the best Colorado ski towns without even hitting the slopes at the Vail Resort Rinks.
- Cost: Varies
- Rentals Available: Yes
Keystone Lake
One of the most unique things to do in Colorado is skate on a frozen lake. At a massive five acres, Keystone Lake is the second biggest maintained outdoor ice skating rink in Colorado (only Evergreen Lake is bigger).
The views are spectacular as you glide around the rink, and you can enjoy night skating under the lights, too. The Adventure Center offers rentals as well as hot chocolate (which can be spiked for the adults) and post-skating snacks.
- Cost: $15/person
- Rentals Available: Yes, $15/pair
Meadow Creek Pond
Located behind the Walmart in Frisco, you might not expect Meadow Creek Pond to have much in the way of atmosphere, but the surroundings are actually pretty nice to enjoy some time on the ice.
The Frisco Public Works Department maintains the ice surface, and lights stay on at night so you can skate until 10pm.
- Cost: Free
- Rentals Available: No
Crested Butte Nordic Center
Enjoy all that Colorado winter has to offer at the Crested Butte Nordic Center. Along with trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, you can lace up your skates at the rink located adjacent to the Nordic Center.
- Cost: Free
- Rentals Available: Yes, $20/pair
Lake San Cristobal
One of the largest lakes in Colorado, Lake San Cristobal in Lake City is open for skating when it freezes over.
Soak in the incredible mountain views as you take a spin on the ice. A Zamboni keeps the ice near the boat dock clear for smooth skating.
- Cost: Free
- Rentals Available: No
Other Places to Ice Skate in Colorado
Who can forget these other amazing ice skating areas in Colorado? Not quite in the mountains, and not in Denver, these top hits are well worth a visit.
Acacia Park
Skate in the Park is a beloved winter tradition in Colorado Springs. A rink in Acacia Park is open to all for skating, along with ice bumper cars for the kids or kids-at-heart.
Special festivities including live music and food vendors add to the fun environment.
- Cost: $10/person
- Rentals Available: Yes, included in ticket price
Highline Lake State Park
You might feel like you’re in the desert at Highline Lake State Park near Grand Junction, but don’t forget your skates.
When the weather cools down in the winter, Mack Mesa freezes over and a portion of it is cleared for skating. And don’t be surprised if an impromptu game of pond hockey breaks out!
- Cost: $10/vehicle (or State Parks Pass) to enter the park
- Rentals Available: No
Additional Winter Activities in Colorado
Looking for more snow-filled fun in Colorado? Check out these local resources:
