There are tonnnsss of ice skating rinks to visit in Toronto, but did you know that all the natural ice rinks in the parks are organized by members of the community?
Every year, neighbourhood groups come together to build and maintain natural ice rinks in parks across Toronto. First, they must apply to the City of Toronto’s Natural Ice Rink Program. The City provides access to water, snow shovels, lighting where available, public signage, and instructions on building and maintaining the rinks. This year, applications for the season closes on December 31, 2021.
About 30 to 40 natural ice rinks are built each year and each offer an awesome back-to-nature skating experience. Here are our top 7 natural ice skating rinks in Toronto!
1. Trace Manes Park
(photo via: City of Toronto)
Address: 110 Rumsey Rd.
District: East York
Trace Manes is a great spot for a family friendly day. Hidden in the heart of Leaside, Trace Manes Park has an awesome playground and, of course, plenty of natural ice real estate. For travelling purposes, parking is available on Rumsey Road or on the side streets.
2. Lynndale Parkette
(Photo via: City of Toronto)
Address: 10 Lynndale Crescent
Lynndale Parkette is a little hidden gem located in Scarborough by Kingston Road and Fallingbrook Road. The natural ice rink there is great for playing hockey and the park has picnic tables for hot chocolate and snacks!
3. Wanless Park
(photo via: City of Toronto)
Address: 250 Wanless Avenue
District: North York
Located in the Yonge and Lawrence neighbourhood, Wanless Park can be described as a community meeting spot. In addition to a natural ice rink, Wanless Park has a large play structure and bathroom facilities. If travelling by car, you can find parking spots on the adjacent streets surrounding Wanless Park.
4. East Lynn Park
(photo via: Toronto Fun Places)
Address: 1949 Danforth Avenue
This charming park is located in the busy Danforth community. On top of a natural ice skating rink, it has a great hill for tobogganing with small children, picnic tables to enjoy hot chocolate and snacks, and playground for kids.
5. Bennington Heights Park
(photo via: City of Toronto)
Address: 465 Heath Street East
District: Old Toronto
Bennington Park, is located off of Bayview Heights Drive by Bennington Heights Elementary School and has a great view of the Don River Valley. Along with a natural ice skating rink, there’s a small hill for tobogganing too!
6. Baird Park
(Photo via: Stephane Demers)
Address: 275 Keele Street
Nestled in a residential area right next to Keele Street at Humberside Drive, this great little local park has a natural ice skating rink perfect for playing hockey. It also features a fenced in playground area for children, washroom facilities, picnic benches, park benches, and some Muskoka chairs for relaxing in. In the summer, it is home to the West Toronto Lawn Bowling Club!
7. Stanley Greene Park
(photo via: City of Toronto)
Address: 55 Stanley Greene Boulevard
District: North York
Located in the Stanley Greene neighbourhood, this community park is perfect for family, kids, and individuals who enjoy the outdoors. Along with a natural ice skating rink, there is a washroom for public use and a fire pit is available to book.
