Ice skating is a Canadian tradition, and one of our favourite winter activities to get out of the house and into the outdoors. We go a few times every season, whether here in the city or out on a mountain lake. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, skating is a great way to move your body, explore a new area and stay warm, no matter the weather.
Lucky for us, Calgary has plenty of free outdoor skating rinks and ice trails for you to explore — some even have rentals on-site. If you’re looking to skate somewhere new this season, find 14 of our favourite spots listed below. Grab your skates, toque, gloves and long socks, and let’s hit the ice!
Before you go: Check the ice conditions. Skating can be tricky when we’re experiencing a chinook or warm Calgary winter. So look up the rink’s status before you head out to make sure it’s safe and the ice is open. If it’s a City-run rink, check the status here.
Central Commons Park In University District
Hours: 8am-10pm daily
Rentals: Yes
Washrooms: Available nearby
Bonus Activities: Fire pits, barbeques, picnic tables
Additional Info: Free 3-hour underground parking
Find this small, circular rink in the middle of Central Commons Park in Calgary’s northwest. The refrigerated rink is generally in great condition, even on slightly warmer days. Better yet, skate here at night to see the whole area lit up with white lights and unique art. If you want to make a night of it, check out the District’s shops, bars and restaurants nearby.
North Glenmore Park Ice Trail
Hours: Skating from 11am–10pm; Crokicurl from 11am–8:30pm
Washrooms: Porta-potties (Indoor washrooms coming soon!)
Bonus Activities: Fire pits, curling lane, crokicurl, inclusive playground, picnic tables
This is one of our favourite winter parks, with a 730-meter ice trail winding through tall trees — it’s even lit up with string lights after dark! Combine this attraction with a shinny rink, crokicurl AND plenty of spots to warm up by a maintained fire, this southwest Calgary spot is a must-visit. If you want to extend your adventure beyond North Glenmore Park, walk west along the Reservoir loop to find Weaselhead Flats for some peace and quiet.
Barb Scott Park
Hours: 5am–11pm daily
Washrooms: Not available
Bonus Activities: Artistic installations, seating areas
If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate skating experience, Barb Scott Park is a hidden gem in the heart of downtown Calgary. This skating rink is modest, but its location in the Beltline creates a unique atmosphere as you skate amongst towering skyscrapers. Plus, this area is well lit at night, and you can check out on-site local art, the Chinook Arc.
Thomson Family Park
Hours: 5am–11pm daily
Washrooms: Not available
Bonus Activities: Playground, seating areas
If you’re already in the Beltline, consider checking out Thomson Family Park too! This area is ideal for families with young children and beginner skaters. The rink is small but well-maintained, creating a safe environment for little ones to learn under the overhead lights if you head there in the evenings. If you’re looking for more to do in the area, you can often catch performances or events at Tomkins Park Gazebo just a few blocks away down 17th Avenue.
Prince’s Island Park Lagoon
Hours: Skating from 10am–11pm daily; Crokicurl from 9am–6pm
Washrooms: Available nearby
Bonus Activities: Crokicurl, close to downtown amenities
Arguably one of the most scenic rinks in Calgary, Prince’s Island Park Lagoon offers a classic skating experience on the north edge of downtown. The combination of the city skyline and Bow River create a magical atmosphere, making it a favourite for locals and tourists alike.
This skating area was closed for several years due to construction, but it has re-opened for winter 2024-2025. If the conditions are right, check out the newly added crokicurl – find out if it’s open here.
Carburn Park
Hours: 11am–10pm daily
Washrooms: Available on-site from 7am-10pm
Bonus Activities: Fire pits, picnic benches, wildlife viewing opportunities
Carburn Park is known for its two large man-made ponds, one of which you can skate on in the wintertime! It’s a peaceful spots for a quiet skate through nature as you circle the lagoon, when the weather allows. We’ve been to this southeast park many times, and almost always spot some form of wildlife — so keep your eyes peeled! The tall trees and neighbouring river make it an ideal spot for birdwatching.
Prairie Winds Park
Hours: 5am–11pm daily
Washrooms: Available on-site
Bonus Activities: Tobogganing hill, picnic areas
Prairie Winds Park may be better known for it’s summer activities, like the spray park, wading pool and vast sporting fields, but it’s still an excellent destination in the winter! This northeast park has two skating rinks — one for leisure skating, and another dedicated to shinny hockey. Plus, don’t forget your sleds! There’s an approved tobogganing hill here you won’t want to miss!
Big Marlborough Park
Hours: 5am–11pm daily
Washrooms: Not available on-site
Bonus Activities: Tobogganing hill, fire rings
In Calgary’s northeast, Big Marlborough Park is a popular winter destination for both sledding and skating. The rink set-up varies year to year, but you can typically find one or two large skating areas: one for hockey games, and the other for leisure skating. There’s also an ice trail that encircles the skating areas for easy access. The area is complete with temporary bleachers for viewing or taking on/off your skates, plus a year-round shelter with extra seating.
From the skating areas, you’ll easily spot the sledding hill if you want to double up your activity this day. Temporary fire pits are also set up here during the winter, but you need to bring your own wood. So whether you’re skating, sledding or both, come prepared so you can warm up in between sessions!
Lot 6 Pop-Up Rink
Hours: 8am–9pm daily; fire pits restocked during rink hours
Washrooms: Not available on-site
Bonus Activities: Fire pits, seating areas
This downtown pop-up rink is one of Calgary’s trendiest and most unique skating destinations. As a temporary rink, it’s part of the City’s initiative to offer more outdoor recreational spaces during the wintertime, so don’t miss it! The vibrant atmosphere and urban setting make it a popular spot for both casual skaters and those seeking a new winter experience.
Bowness Park Lagoon & Ice Trail
Hours: 5am–11pm daily
Rentals: Yes, on-site at UCalgary Outdoor Centre
Washrooms: Available on-site
Bonus Activities: Crokicurl rinks, fire pits, picnic sites
Bowness Park is a top skating destination among Calgarians, us included! Because who doesn’t love skating amongst towering lit-up trees? Here you’ll find a huge frozen lagoon to explore (see if you can spot Bownessie!), a 1.6km ice trail alongside the Bow River, and roaring fires lit by both. Want to try something new? Try ice-biking rented on-site by the University Of Calgary Outdoor Centre.
Want more winter activities? Here’s our complete guide to Bowness Park in the winter!
West Confederation Park Skating Rink
Hours: 5am–11pm daily
Washrooms: Portable washrooms available near skating rink
Bonus Activities: Fire pits, seating areas
West Confederation Park is a beautiful outdoor skating destination in Calgary’s northwest, with a spacious ice rink for recreational skaters in a natural environment surrounded by trees and wide open spaces. It’s a great spot for families, beginners, and those looking to enjoy a peaceful outdoor skating experience. In the summer, this area is popular for the nearby bike pump track and spray park.
Skate On These Calgary Community Rinks
When it comes to skating on community rinks, the rules differ. Some community rinks are open to the public, others allow anyone to buy a membership, and some only allow residents to buy a membership. So do your research before you go!
Here are a few we’ve found that you can go to or purchase a membership for, regardless of where you live.
Crescent Heights Skating Rink
Hours: 5am–11pm daily; fire pits restocked during rink hours
Washrooms: Portable washrooms available near skating area
Bonus Activities: Fire pits, seating areas
Looking for the best view of the city? Crescent Heights Park is an ideal skating destination near downtown, but it also comes with an eye-level view of Calgary’s skyline. Located near Crescent Road, the skating rink here offers a unique urban experience with a stunning backdrop and quiet neighbourhood feel. A membership is required to skate here, and is available for the public to purchase (not just residents).
Shaganappi Park Rink & Ice Trail
Hours: 5am–11pm daily
Washrooms: Portable washrooms available near skating rink
Bonus Activities: Fire pits, seating areas, also an off-leash dog park
Located in southwest Calgary, Shaganappi Park is a lesser-known but highly beautiful skating spot. With a large rink, maintained ice trail, beautiful natural surroundings and easy access just off Bow Trail, it’s perfect for families and individuals who want to avoid the crowds at larger, more popular rinks. A membership is required to skate here, and it’s available for purchase by the public (not just residents).
Silver Springs Community Rink
Hours: 9am–10pm daily
Washrooms: Portable washrooms available near skating rink
Bonus Activities: Shelters, seating areas
Silver Springs Community Rink is a neighbourhood gem tucked away in northwest Calgary. Known for its well-maintained ice, welcoming atmosphere and community-driven vibe, this rink is a favourite for both casual skaters and hockey enthusiasts. Its quiet location and family-friendly environment make it a great option for those looking to enjoy a relaxed day of skating. This rink is open to the public unless stated otherwise.
And that’s a wrap for skating in Calgary! Find more skating rinks and popular winter activities on our interactive map, the Adventure Atlas. Use the filters or search bar to find exactly what you need!
If you’re looking for 100+ ways to get out of the house and into the outdoors this winter, grab our free Outdoor Winter Motivation Activities Guide!
