Kamloops Outdoor Ice Rink | Riverside Park Guide

For years, Kamloops residents have talked about how great it would be to have a proper outdoor skating rink downtown. We’ve had community rinks in various neighbourhoods, but there’s something special about skating right in the heart of the city.

That vision is now a reality with the new outdoor ice rink at Riverside Park. It’s a fantastic addition to our city’s winter amenities, giving families, couples, and skating enthusiasts a scenic place to enjoy the colder months.

If you’re planning a visit or just curious about how it works, here is everything you need to know about the Kamloops outdoor ice rink at Riverside Park.

Where the Outdoor Ice Rink Is Located

The rink is situated in Riverside Park, arguably the crown jewel of Kamloops’ public spaces. You’ll find it near the tennis courts and the pickleball area, just a short walk from the parking lots along Lorne Street.

Its location makes it incredibly accessible. You can easily grab a coffee from a downtown cafe, walk over to the park, and lace up your skates. It connects perfectly with the Rivers Trail, so if you’re out for a winter walk along the Thompson River, you can stop by and watch the skaters even if you aren’t hitting the ice yourself.

Riverside Park offers a central, scenic backdrop for winter skating.

Warm up by the fire pits and enjoy the seating area right next to the ice.

How the Outdoor Ice Rink Works

Unlike an indoor arena with controlled temperatures, this is a true outdoor skating experience. The rink relies on a refrigerated chiller system, which helps maintain the ice even when temperatures fluctuate slightly above freezing. However, it is still weather-dependent.

If we get a heavy snowfall, the rink might close temporarily for clearing. Likewise, if temperatures drop extremely low (as they sometimes do in January), it might be too cold for comfortable skating. The ice surface is maintained by the City of Kamloops, ensuring it stays smooth and safe for everyone.

Hours of Operation

One of the best things about this rink is its flexibility. It is generally open daily throughout the winter season, typically from late morning until the evening.

Because hours can change based on weather conditions, ice maintenance schedules, or special events, I always recommend checking the official City of Kamloops website or their social media channels before heading down. There is nothing worse than packing up the kids and the gear only to find the gates locked for maintenance.

Who This Rink Is Perfect For

This isn’t an NHL-sized rink designed for full-contact hockey games. It is a recreational skating loop designed for leisure.

• Families with young kids: It’s a great, low-pressure environment to teach little ones how to balance on skates.
• Casual skaters: If you haven’t been on the ice in years, this is a relaxed place to get your legs back under you.
• Date nights: Skating under the park lights with the river nearby creates a pretty magical winter atmosphere.

If you are looking for a competitive game of shinny, you are likely better off visiting one of the many community outdoor rinks or indoor arenas. Riverside Park is about community connection and enjoying the fresh air.

Why This Is a Big Win for Kamloops

Investments like this matter. They turn our public spaces into year-round destinations. Riverside Park is packed in the summer with Music in the Park and beachgoers, but for a long time, it was much quieter in the winter.

By adding the skating rink, the city has given residents a reason to come downtown, support local businesses, and stay active during the darker months. It builds a sense of community when you see neighbours and friends gathering outside, even when it’s below zero.

A Local Perspective

As a Realtor, I often get asked about the "lifestyle" in Kamloops. People want to know what there is to do when they aren’t working. Amenities like the Riverside Park ice rink are exactly the kind of thing that improves our quality of life.

It’s a simple pleasure: grabbing a hot chocolate, meeting up with friends, and spending an hour on the ice. It makes winter in Kamloops not just tolerable, but enjoyable. If you haven’t checked it out yet, I highly encourage you to go. It’s a wonderful reminder of why we choose to live here.