As part of our effort to increase outdoor recreation during the pandemic, we launched a pilot program to activate and improve access to outdoor skating at Arthur Park for the 2021 winter season.

If you’re not already familiar with this natural area, it has been accessed for decades during the winter months for pond skating on “wild ice” and easy viewing of the Sea Caves. Recreational maintenance for the area in winter has been discussed over the past decade, but this year we are piloting a program to plow a path around the pond for nordic skating, and create skating areas! Our goal is to increase accessibility and allow more people to enjoy this outdoor recreational opportunity while complying with the Governor’s orders during the pandemic.

We will start grooming and path clearing with machines once ice levels are thick enough. Until then enjoy the ice that has been cleared by Mother Nature and excited community members with shovels.

The project is managed by the City’s Land Steward and Conservation and Trails Program in partnership with a local landscaping company. They bring specific equipment that reduces the impact to the area but still has most success in a variety of conditions. With our priority on protecting the natural environment and public safety, we may consider other ways to activate this site in the future.

If you visit by car, please park at the High School and walk across the road to access the park. Do NOT park in the nearby development.

If you do go to explore Arthur Park this winter, please let us know what you think by taking our short survey!

Please note – if you choose to skate on “wild ice”, do so at your own risk, but take the following precautions:

Safety Tips for skating on wild ice

1. Always skate with a buddy (a member of your household)
2. Check for ice thickness and quality (test for at least 4″ of solid ice)
3. Wear a helmet
4. Supervise children at all times
5. Go during daylight hours
6. Wear a PFD under your coat

Photo by Gantas Vaičiulėnas from Pexels