Outdoor Ice Rink

Fresh ice surface on the outdoor ice rink at Howelsen Hill.
Child in skates and helmet smiling next to the outdoor ice rink.
Hockey players skating on the outdoor ice rink in a snow storm.

Overview

Free Community Outdoor Skating Rink - Closed For The 25-26 Season

News and Updates: Warm temperatures  have led to a significant deterioration of the ice sheet, prompting a closure of the outdoor ice rink. Thanks to everyone who came out and enjoyed the rink this season! We look forward to skating with you again next winter. 

The city has installed a complete rink system including liner, brackets, sideboards and other accessories from NiceRink, a Wisconsin fourth-generation, family-owned business that’s been around for nearly 70 years creating frozen traditions and memories.

Public skate, figure skating and hockey will be provided on the outdoor ice sheet, managed by the Howelsen Ice Complex staff. The rink will utilize the current tennis court lighting system during evening hours.

Information

  • Location: Howelsen Hill Tennis Courts
  • Hours of Operation: 5 PM to 10 PM Daily

Skate Library

The Howelsen Ice Arena (285 Howelsen Parkway) will have a "skate library" located inside the main lobby where skaters can keep, pass on, or return skates to use at the outdoor ice sheet. 

Outdoor Ice Rink FAQ

  • Will the ice rink be open all day?
    • No. The ice rink will be open in the evenings from 5 PM to 10 PM. Skating during the cooler evening hours, after the sun goes down, helps preserve the quality and condition of the ice sheet. 
  • Do you need a reservation to skate on the outdoor ice rink?
    • No. This is a free community ice rink open to anyone who wants to skate. We ask that you are courteous to other skaters and share the ice. 
  • Will skates be available for rent?
    • No. Skates will not be available for rent, but the Howelsen Ice Arena will have a small skate library available inside the main lobby where skaters can borrow skates. Helmets and other protective gear are also strongly encouraged, especially for those playing pond hockey. 
  • What is Pond Hockey? 
    • Pond Hockey is a form of ice hockey similar in its object and appearance to traditional ice hockey but simplified and designed to be played on part of a natural frozen body of water. The top of the goal is lower, only slightly taller than the width of the puck, and the game does not have a formal goalie. Because of these differences, pond hockey places more emphases on skating and puck handling ability and less on shooting and checking. Pond hockey is perfect for smaller rinks such as the one located at Howelsen Hill. 
  • Who should I contact if there is an issue with the ice surface or facility?
    • Contact the Howelsen Ice Arena at 970-871-7033 with any concerns or questions.