Few things are as Canadian as outdoor ice-skating, and Whistler has just added a brand-new rink that I'm eager to try. Opened last week, the rink is set in Whistler Olympic Plaza. That's the same place where the medal ceremonies happened during the 2010 Winter Olympics. The resort has since turned the area into an outdoor venue for concerts and gatherings (like the upcoming New Year's Eve party, Whistler First Night).
Back to the skating though. The curving rink is more like a track than a traditional round rink edged with hockey boards. From the outdoor location you can see the mountains, ski hills, and village buildings. There's no admission charge and skaters can get on the ice starting at 11 a.m., but note that the rink closes for an hour from 5-6 p.m. Also, skate rentals are unavailable from 2-6 p.m.
The evening session would make a great après-ski activity.
Hours: Daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cost: Free
Skate rentals: $5
Rental Hours: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
More Outdoor Skating
For more ice time, there's the Robson Square Ice Rink in downtown Vancouver. Like the Whistler rink, admission is free, plus skate rentals are free for kids 12 and under. Atop Grouse Mountain, you'll find a pretty pond-like skating rink. It can be chilly at the ski hill, so dress in warm layers.
Photo: Mike Crane / Tourism Whistler