Whistler’s popular outdoor skating rink has officially reopened for the winter season—with one notable change.
Instead of the traditional Kubota tractor that has been used to clear the rink at Whistler Olympic Plaza since it opened to the public in 2012, for the first time this year the ice surface will have its very own Zamboni.
The new electric, ride-on Zamboni is powered by a lithium-ion battery and will resurface the ice to keep it smooth for skaters throughout the winter season.
“The unit provides for a zero-emission solution, thus helping us meet our GHG reduction targets,” said the Resort Municipality of Whistler's (RMOW) senior communications officer Jill Brooksbank in an emailed statement.
It's expected to hit the ice the first week of December.
The Olympic Plaza rink is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. through late March 2023. with the rink closed for maintenance every day from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. and again from 4 to 5 p.m. Hours will differ on Christmas Day, when the rink will open from noon to 4 p.m.; and New Year's Eve, when hours will be extended from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.
The skate rental shop opens from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 2:30 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Skates cost $9 to rent, which includes admission. Entrance fees are $2 if you bring your own skates. Helmets and skate aids are available onsite for free.
Hockey and figure skating are not permitted, though there will be a "game zone" open for stick and puck play from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Access to the rink is on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, patrons should be aware the ice surface's capacity is limited.
More information on the outdoor ice rink and the skating schedule can be found here.
