Where to go Ice Skating in Canmore and Kananaskis

Discover winter magic as the landscapes of Canmore and Kananaskis, Alberta, come to life with the sounds of blades carving through ice and the sight of excited breath in the crisp air. Canmore and Kananaskis offer an array of ice skating adventures, welcoming skaters of all levels. Here, we guide you to the top ice skating spots and the go-to places for gear rental or purchase.

Canmore Nordic Centre

The Canmore Nordic Centre is one of the most picturesque settings for a day of skating. For those renting equipment, Trail Sports is conveniently located seconds away from the rink, so you don’t have to waste any time getting on the ice.

The fun doesn’t have to stop at skating; for those looking to add some extra action to their day, there are an array of other winter sports offered at the Nordic Centre. Embrace the thrill of fat biking through the winter scenery, take a gentle toboggan down a snowy hill, or find your rhythm cross-country skiing through the serene forest.

Spring Creek Pond

Explore Canmore’s newest ice surface in Spring Creek, conveniently located near The Tamarack Lodge and The Malcolm Hotel. This small frozen pond is well-maintained and boasts unparalleled views of our stunning mountain scenery. Pro tip: Bridgette Bar and Mineshaft Tavern are only steps away from this rink for a post-skating meal and beverage to warm up your fingers and toes.

Rundle Crescent Ice Surface

The Rundle Crescent Ice Surface is ideal for leisurely skating sessions, family outings, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon amidst the stunning natural beauty of the outdoors. This beautifully maintained outdoor rink offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to enjoy the gentle glide of skates on ice, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies.

Larch Rink

For an authentic Canadian experience, visit the Larch boarded ice rink, a beloved local spot for ice hockey. Bring your stick, puck and helmet, join a pick-up game, and experience the local hockey culture firsthand.

Cougar Creek Rink

On the north side of Canmore, the Cougar Creek boarded rink stands as another hub for skating and hockey enthusiasts. After skating up an appetite, walk across the street to the Iron Goat Pub & Grill to unwind with mouth-watering wings and cold beer.

Wild skating, or skating on natural surfaces like lakes or ponds, in Kananaskis is an experience like no other, but safety is paramount. We suggest doing your own research on ice conditions to find the best spots to go wild skating in Kananaskis. Popular locations include Barrier Lake, Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes, and Wedge Pond. Remember – the ice is not monitored by us or by Alberta Parks, and there is always a risk with wild skating. It is important to know your comfort levels, always check ice conditions, and learn how to be prepared for an emergency when skating in the backcountry.

If conditions aren’t favorable for wild skating in Kananaskis, visit Kananaskis Village for its beautifully maintained frozen rink. Kananaskis Outfitters is conveniently located nearby for any gear rental needs.

Always check to make sure the local ice surfaces are open before trying to skate and make sure you have the right gear for a great ice skating experience in Canmore and Kananaskis. Whether you’re renting or buying, local shops like Sports Garage, GearUp Mountain Sport and Rentals, Sports Experts, and Kananaskis Outfitters offer a selection of ice skates and helmets.

Are you a first-timer? Mj’s Bow Valley Skating offers family group lessons, private lessons, and lake or pond lessons for anyone looking to try something new.

In Canmore and Kananaskis, our natural ecosystems and stunning landscapes are the heart and soul of our local mountain culture. Before your visit, we encourage you to sign the Pledge to the Peaks, committing to mindful exploration to ensure the safety of all inhabitants of the region and preserve the beauty of our unfiltered wilderness for generations to come.