With only a few weeks left of winter, now is the time to embrace the cooler temperatures and get in all those fun winter activities while you can. One of our favourite activities this time of year is ice skating on an outdoor rink. We’re by no means great skaters, but there is something special about gliding across the ice in a beautiful outdoor setting. Fortunately, the Okanagan has no shortage of unique outdoor rinks to take advantage of before we welcome spring with open arms. If you’re looking for a fun place to chill and socially distance in the Okanagan this winter, you’re going to want to check out these three destination rinks.
Stuart Park Skating Rink | Kelowna
Stuart Park Skating Rink is located right in the heart of downtown Kelowna between Bernard Avenue and the Kelowna Yacht Club. During the day, the rink is slightly less busy and you can take in gorgeous views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains, and in the evening, the experience is made all the more magical with twinkly lights strung across the rink. Its central location makes it a great spot for a date night or a family outing. Stretch your legs post-skate with a walk downtown where you can warm up with a hot beverage and a pastry at Karat, a soup and sandwich at Little Hobo or an authentic Italian pizza at Antico.
Cost: Free
Rentals: Bring your own equipment (rentals not available due to Covid)
For more information and to pre-book a 60-minute time slot, go to kelowna.ca.
Apex Skate Loop | Apex Mountain Resort
The only thing better than an outdoor skating rink, is an outdoor adventure skate loop. This one kilometre icy trail loops through the forest at Apex Mountain Resort just outside of Penticton. Still a hidden gem, you should have no trouble social distancing and getting those perfect instagram-worthy photos. We still need to make it back for a night skate (the loop is lit until 11 p.m.), but in the meantime you can read about our experience skating there on a bluebird day.
Cost: $4 + GST
Rentals: Available during resort business hours for an additional fee
More information at apexresort.com
Big White Skating Rink | Big White Ski Resort
*Currently closed due to Covid
While currently closed for the season due to challenges maintaining social distancing and sanitization protocols, this spectacular rink is worth bookmarking for next winter. Touted as Canada’s highest outdoor skating rink, you can skate amongst the snow-capped mountain peaks or even try your hand at a friendly game of hockey. For you après-skate, enjoy free s’mores by the bonfire or take the gondola up to the village for a fondue for two at The Woods restaurant.
Cost: Free
Rentals: Available when rink is open
More information at bigwhite.com.
Where are your favourite outdoor skating rinks? Have you been to these Okanagan ones?
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