The Fragile Beauty of Wild Ice Skating: Top 7 Destinations

As global temperatures rise, the rare beauty of natural ice, or "wild ice," is becoming increasingly precious. For enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating blend of adventure and natural splendor, wild ice skating offers a unique way to immerse oneself in winter landscapes. From skating through pine forests to gliding across alpine lakes, these experiences combine the thrill of exploration with the serenity of nature. Here are seven must-visit destinations for the ultimate wild ice skating experience.

North America's Wild Skating Havens

1. Lake Morey, Vermont

Nestled near the New Hampshire border, Lake Morey in Vermont boasts the longest skating trail in the United States, stretching 4.3 miles. The trail, maintained by the Lake Morey Resort, is open to all and free of charge. Here, Nordic skating reigns supreme, allowing skaters to elegantly navigate the icy expanse, surrounded by picturesque maple trees and ice fishermen.

2. Lake Monona, Wisconsin

The Midwest's harsh winters create perfect conditions for wild skating, particularly in Madison's Lake Monona. Renowned for its sunset skating sessions, Lake Monona provides stunning golden-hour views of Wisconsin's State Capitol and the iconic Monona Terrace designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

3. Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

The awe-inspiring landscapes of Banff National Park, framed by the Rocky Mountains, offer diverse skating experiences. Lake Louise, known for its crystal-clear "ice window," is a favored spot for figure skater Elladj Baldé. Peyto Lake, another gem, dazzles with its transparent ice, revealing a fascinating underwater world of logs.

4. Adirondacks, New York

The Adirondacks, with their multitude of lakes and ponds, transform into a skater's paradise during winter. Mirror Lake, near the historic Olympic Village, offers both skating and unique dog sled tours. For a more secluded experience, the wind-swept Cascade Lakes and the hike-in Giant Washbowl provide solitary skating adventures amidst the mountains.

5. Southwest Colorado

Colorado's alpine lakes and reservoirs, including Lake San Cristobal and Lake Haiyaha in the Rocky Mountain National Park, turn into natural rinks. Blue Mesa Reservoir, celebrated for its extensive ice and stunning scenery, is a favorite among the wild ice community.

6. Portage Lake, Alaska

Alaska's glacier skating is unparalleled, with Portage Lake being a prime destination. The unpredictable nature of the ice here adds to the thrill, with conditions varying from thick snow cover to open water.

The Uncertain Future of Wild Ice

Regrettably, climate change poses a threat to these natural wonders. Ottawa's Rideau Canal Skateway, once a popular wild skating venue, experienced its first non-freezing season in decades. As Canadian figure skater Elladj Baldé notes, the future of these seasons is uncertain, potentially growing shorter in the next 50 years.

Embracing Adventure with Caution

Wild skating is an exercise in both discovery and responsibility. Skaters must be vigilant about safety, including checking ice thickness and carrying self-rescue equipment. This blend of caution and adventure makes wild ice skating an unforgettable experience, one that may become increasingly rare as our planet changes.