Ice skating options in the Reno-Tahoe region are divided between indoor facilities within the Reno valley and outdoor rinks located at higher elevations in the Sierra Nevada.
Reno Skating Facilities
Reno operates two primary ice skating venues.
- Reno Ice Community Ice Arena: This indoor facility offers public skating sessions throughout the week. The arena hosts evening public skate sessions featuring dimmed lights and music. Early bird public skating sessions are also available. The facility provides ice skating lessons, figure skating practice, and serves as a home for a local hockey club. Registration is required before arrival.
- Grand Sierra Resort: The Ice Rink at Grand Sierra Resort provides 8,000 square feet of skating surface. The area includes fire pits, a full-service bar, and a menu featuring seasonal items like soup and s'mores. The rink is open to hotel guests and the general public.
Lake Tahoe Skating Facilities
Outdoor skating rinks in the Lake Tahoe area are subject to weather conditions.
- Northstar Village Ice Skating Rink: Located at 5001 Northstar Dr, Truckee, CA 96161. The rink is located in the center of The Village. Skating is free for those with their own equipment; rentals are available. The "Friday Night DJ & Ice Skating" event runs from November 15, 2024, to April 12, 2024, between 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm. Schedule changes are possible due to special events.
- Heavenly Village Ice Skating: This open-air rink is located in South Lake Tahoe. It operates daily and is available for private event rentals.
- South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena: An indoor facility located just off Highway 50. Public skating is $13 for those providing their own skates. Rental skates cost $15. Admission is free for children 5 and younger.
- Edgewood on Ice: Located in South Lake Tahoe, this venue offers ice skating with views of the lake.
- Everline Resort and Spa Ice Rink: Situated five minutes from Palisades Tahoe in Olympic Valley.
Driving and Safety
Reaching Lake Tahoe rinks requires driving over mountain passes. Winter weather frequently impacts travel times and road safety. Before departing, check the status of major routes including I-80 road conditions, US-50 road conditions, SR-431 Mt Rose road conditions, and SR-267 road conditions.
Cameras on the drive toward Truckee and Northstar.
Natural ice skating is sometimes available at Sawmill Pond in South Lake Tahoe. This is located by continuing on Lake Tahoe Boulevard at the "Y" intersection instead of turning onto Highway 50. Do not attempt to skate on natural ice without verifying it is thick enough to support weight. Check with local authorities or observe if others have confirmed the safety of the ice before proceeding.
Rinks at ski resorts may modify hours based on resort operations or special events. Verify availability directly with the venue before travel, especially during holiday periods or active storm cycles.