There are plenty of ice skating rinks throughout the US, and even in Colorado. In fact, there are over 30 rinks located all over Colorado. Choosing which one to visit may simply be based on which one is closest to you. However, if you want to visit some of the most unique, why not look at some of the largest ice skating rinks in Colorado?
Keep reading below to find out which one of these unique rinks may appeal to you the most.
1. Largest Man-Made Ice Rink — Huck Finn Ice Rink
Not only is it the largest man-made ice rink in Colorado, but the Huck Finn Ice Rink is also the highest man-made ice rink in the state. It’s in Leadville, which is over 10,000 feet above sea level. You’ll definitely want to get used to the elevation before you try anything too strenuous.
Ice skating is the perfect option to help you adjust to the lack of oxygen before you try hiking or skiing. The ice rink is 30,000 square feet, giving you plenty of space to practice your skills without bumping into anyone. In addition to the extra-large rink, there’s also a fire pit and a snack bar. You can rent skates and hockey equipment on-site.
The skating rink is open from December to February, weather permitting. It’s an outdoor ice rink, so the rink’s hours and open dates may change a little based on the weather.
The Largest Zamboni-Maintained Outdoor Rink — Evergreen Lake
Evergreen Lake is the perfect place to go ice skating. Not only is it only 45 minutes from Denver, but the lake is a whole 8.5 acres (370,260). This makes it larger than even the Huck Finn Ice Rink. If you and your family enjoy a mix of ice hockey and ice skating, this lets everyone get the best of both worlds. The lake offers plenty of space for free skating, while also having several ice hockey rinks for those wanting to practice the game.
But that’s not even the best part. Though this lake is natural, it’s kept smooth because it’s groomed by a Zamboni. Not only is it one of the largest outdoor ice skating rinks in Colorado, but it’s also the largest natural ice rink in the world that can claim they are kept smooth thanks to a Zamboni!
Since it’s a natural and outdoor ice skating rink, its days of operation and season are heavily dependent on the weather. However, it usually runs from sometime in December to sometime in January.
You can visit Evergreen Lake at any point of the year to see local wildlife, including elk and the hard-to-find ringtail cat.
The Second Largest Zamboni-Maintained Outdoor Rink — Keystone Lake
There are two ice skating rinks in Keystone, Colorado. The first is the Dercum Square Ice Skating Rink. This is the most obvious one, as it’s right in the town. However, this is just a standard rink and not one of the largest ice skating rinks in Colorado.
Keystone Lake is the best rink to visit if you’re in the area. It’s five acres, (217,800 square feet). This makes it the second-largest Zamboni-groomed natural ice skating rink in Colorado, though not in the world.
Their ice skating rink has a lot to offer. Not only do you get skates and equipment to rent, but you also get stand rentals, pull sleds for children, and hockey equipment. This ice skating rink is open a little longer than the others, running from December to March most years.
While you’re in the area, you can also check out Keystone Resort and try your hand at skiing. In the warmer months, the lake is open to other recreational activities like paddleboarding.
Summary of the Largest Ice Skating Rinks in Colorado
List Number | Ice Rink Name | Location | Size | Why Largest | When Open |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Huck Finn Ice Rink | Leadville | 30,000 square feet | Largest man-made ice rink in Colorado | December through February |
2 | Evergreen Lake | Evergreen | 370,260 square feet | Largest Zamboni-groomed natural rink in Colorado | December through February |
3 | Keystone Lake | Keystone | 217,800 square feet | Second-largest Zamboni-groomed natural rink in Colorado | December to March |
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