Two Rink Town, Infinite Fun

Most Bozeman locals and visitors associate the Gallatin Valley in the wintertime with its enjoyable outdoor scene. With such close proximity to cross-country ski trails, Bridger Bowl, Big Sky, hunting and ice fishing, it’s easy to take advantage of all the outdoor activities Bozeman has to offer.

The idea of ice-skating or watching a hockey game is often overlooked when families are trying to decide what to do with their kids on the weekend. Many people forget that there are two indoor ice rinks in Bozeman that offer a variety of fun, family-friendly activities at affordable prices.

Public skating is open to the general public at the Haynes Pavilion. Not only is ice-skating great exercise, it’s an inexpensive activity to do with the whole family. No need to own a pair of ice skates to partake in public skating, the Bozeman Amateur Hockey Association (BAHA) offers skate rentals for only $5 a pair. Public Skate schedules can be found at www. gallatinice.org.

Public Skating Entry Fees:

• Adults: $10

• Children Ages 6-12: $5

• Children Ages 6 and under: Free

Don’t know how to ice-skate? No problem!

Learn to Skate classes (both hockey and figure skating) are offered on Sundays and Wednesdays throughout the season for all ages and abilities. Cost is only $75 for the five-week session. Registration can be found at www. gallatinice.org.

Don’t forget to save the date for Gallatin Ice’s Annual Skate with Santa event on Friday, December 22 at 6:45 p.m. Dress up in your favorite festive holiday attire and skate alongside Santa Claus and his helpers. Santa will be handing out candy canes and taking photos on the ice.

Going to a live hockey game is another way to enjoy the rinks in Bozeman. You don’t have to play hockey, or even know the rules, to enjoy watching the game. Every Friday and/or Saturday evening at the Haynes Pavilion and Ice Barn, there are live hockey games, played by the Junior Icedogs, the Bozeman Stingers or the MSU Hockey Club.

Remember, the rinks can get a little chilly on those cold winter evenings, so bundle up in layers (sweater, hat, mittens, wool socks, etc.) and bring hand-warmers and a blanket to share to enjoy the games to the fullest! The newly revamped Barnburner will always be serving hot beverages, craft beers, wine and food to warm you up from the inside out during the games.