Colorado prides itself on the array of outdoor activities available throughout the year. With the coldest season upon us, many people will be looking to take part in a favorite winter pastime—outdoor ice skating. Below are ten of the best outdoor ice skating rinks in Colorado.

1. Rotary Park Ice Rink
   Located in the Swiss-inspired town of Ouray, this rink has beautiful mountain views, as well as hot springs nearby for some post-skating warmth. It’s also home to many local hockey and broomball games. 
2. The Nordic Center
   Owned and operated by the town of Crested Butte, this ice rink and the adjacent warming house are open to the public throughout the winter season. Feel free to bring your own skates or rent a pair.
3. Keystone Resort
   Keystone is overflowing with winter activities and events. Ice skating is available on Keystone Lake and Decrum Square. After a day of skating, hang out in the Adventure Center, where guests can enjoy a stocked snack bar, an arcade, and a lounging area.  
4. Dorsey Lake
   Settled right inside Rocky Mountain National Park, the YMCA of the Rockies-Estes Park Center is one of the best places for outdoor ice skating. Access to the rink is free for members and lodging guests.
5. Winter Park Resort
   There are multiple locations to ice skate around the resort, and skate rentals are available at each one. They even offer free hour-long ice skating lessons on weekend evenings.
6. Kendall Mountain Ice Rink
   Silverton’s Kendall Mountain recreation area offers ice skating from December to March. Silverton is also home to many restaurants, shops, and skiing opportunities. 
7. Lake City Rink
   Weather permitting, skaters of all ages and skill levels can have fun at the town of Lake City’s incredible outdoor ice rink. 
8. Beaver Creek
   Set in the middle of Bear Creek Village, this ice rink is the perfect place to spend time with family and friends. After you’re done skating, relax near one of the fireplaces and grab some hot chocolate and food in the village. 
9. Alderhof Ice Rink
   An array of shops, restaurants, and lodgings surround Vail’s ice rink, which is located near both Vail Village and Lionshead Village. Have fun skating under the lights, and warm up near the adjoining fireplace. 
10. Colorado State Parks
    Colorado is home to over forty state parks, and many of them have natural ponds and lakes that are perfect for ice skating. Many of these areas are also ideal for hockey, ice fishing, sledding, and other winter activities.

This is just a small taste of all of the outdoor ice skating rinks in Colorado. Get out there and have a good time on the ice!