Outdoor winter activities await arrival of Old Man Winter

Lloydminster, AB/SK – As winter continues to navigate its arrival to the region, the City of Lloydminster is eager to bring outdoor enthusiasts the joy of outdoor skating, skiing and fishing. However, weather delays have impacted the opening of these popular outdoor winter amenities.

Jordan Newton, Senior Manager of Parks and Green Spaces, emphasizes the City’s commitment to providing the community with a festive experience during the winter season. "While many don’t often wish for colder temperatures and are taking advantage of these seasonally warm conditions, we’re working hard to make our outdoor rinks, cross-country skiing and ice fishing will be available for everyone to enjoy once seasonal conditions are met. Your patience is sincerely appreciated as we strive to create outdoor family-friendly winter activities for our community."

The City of Lloydminster will continue to update the community on the status of outdoor amenities as ideal weather conditions are met. Citizens are encouraged to regularly visit Lloydminster.ca/News and follow the City on Facebook and Instagram.

Skating Surfaces

Traditionally, the aim has been to have the outdoor rinks ready for enjoyment by early December. However,  challenges arise when warm weather lingers, hindering the creation of ideal ice surfaces. When temperatures finally dip to suitable levels, transforming these spaces into safe and delightful skating surfaces typically takes a few weeks.

This year, the City will develop 10 ice surfaces throughout the community. While most of the equipment is in place, the locations will be announced once suitable for use.

Servus Free Skate

While skating enthusiasts await the outdoor season, Servus Credit Union continues to offer free access to indoor ice surfaces across the city. Dates and times vary by each facility. For more information, including the full schedule, visit Lloydminster.ca/ServusSkate.

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country ski trails at Bud Miller All Seasons Park will open once ideal conditions are met,. All trail users are reminded that trails are multi-purpose; however, those on foot, bike, sleds and other modes of transportation are asked to respect ski trails and not walk on them or by other means damage them.

Maintained by the Lloydminster Cross-Country Ski Club, seasonal trails are available at the Lloydminster Golf & Curling Centre and Poplar Bluff, approximately 20 kilometres east of Lloydminster.

Ice Fishing at Bud Miller All Seasons Park Lake

Bud Miller All Seasons Park Lake is stocked with trout by the Alberta Conservation Association and is the perfect spot to enjoy a fun and relaxing day on the ice. Anglers are reminded that a valid Alberta fishing licence is required.

The lake will open for the season once a safe ice thickness has been determined.

Stormwater Retention Ponds

The City of Lloydminster asks residents to remain clear of stormwater retention ponds this winter.

Although the water’s surface may appear frozen, continual water movement and fluctuating water levels contribute to potential dangers. The rise and fall of outdoor temperatures also factor in unstable ice surfaces. Ice thickness on retention ponds is not monitored except for the Bud Miller All Seasons Park lake.

If someone falls through the ice, do not go on the ice to attempt a rescue. Call 911 immediately for help.