Glide through the winter months at these outdoor rinks.
written by ADRIAN KIGER
AHHH, WINTER—IT CAN GET LONG, COLD, AND GRAY. Hibernating is as natural for humans as it is for animals, but it seems the people who love winter are those who go outside. It was British author and avid walker Alfred Wainwright who is credited with saying, “There is no such thing as bad weather—only unsuitable clothing.” So grab a hat and a pair of mittens and pull on another sweater—it’s ice skating season in West Virginia. Here are three outdoor ice rinks that give you both the adrenaline rush and some beautiful views.
Canaan Valley Resort State Park
The outdoor fireplace is just part of the charm of the ice rink at Canaan Valley Resort State Park—the majestic views of the Allegheny Mountains are another. Canaan Valley is a true gem for those who love the outdoors. The open-air rink offers two-hour skate sessions and the opportunity to shake off those winter blues. Take some turns around the rink, then relax in the Resort’s Laurel Lounge for dinner and drinks.
230 Main Lodge Road, Davis, canaanresort.com
Greenbrier Skating Rink
In the mood for a fancy skate? The Greenbrier Skating Rink is open to both overnight guests and the public. This rink offers a fantastic opportunity to take in the views of the grand, historic hotel while you enjoy an outdoor skate. Built in 2020, the rink is over 10,000 square feet, making it the largest outdoor ice rink in West Virginia. Skate rentals are available, and pre-registration is encouraged.
101 Main Street West, White Sulphur Springs, greenbrier.com/activities/ice-skating
J.B. Chambers Memorial Ice Rink at Wheeling Park
Wheeling Park will be a century old in 2025, and it’s just as charming and beautiful as ever. The James Buchanan Chambers Memorial Ice Rink was built in 1959 and has recently undergone renovations. It’s the best of both worlds for outdoor skating: It’s under roof, with a couple walls open to the fresh mountain air. The rink offers daily skating sessions from 1 to 3 p.m., and lessons are offered on Fridays and Sundays for children ages 6 and up. Afterward, head over to Wheeling Park’s newest addition, Cafe 1925 in the newly renovated White Palace, for coffee and a light snack.
255 Mansion Drive, Wheeling, oglebay.com/wheeling-park
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S WINTER 2024 ISSUE
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