Outdoor Skating Rink You Can Build Yourself
Ice Rink DIY projects I’ve been building an Outdoor Skating Rink in the backyard for about 5 years now! I love watching the kids get out and skate, or play a little hockey. Wondering how to build a real outdoor ice rink?
Step 1 - Find a nice flat spot for your rink. It doesn't have to be perfect, but the more level the better. This will save you on water when you fill it up.
Step 2 - Build a simple frame for your rink. This one is slightly smaller than the 20x40 tarp I use.
*Level your frame from the top, then you can fill in the gaps below with scrap wood. This will make sure all your water will stay in the rink when its full and not spill over a low spot.
you may find it easier to use brackets like this to hold the corners together.
I used a laser level at night, to check the level, and adjust the frame accordingly. To anchor the frame into the ground I used 2x2" lumber, staked into the ground, then I screwed the frame to the stakes.
Step 3 - Once its level, and I've fit my tarp overtop, its time to fill it up. you can see its still a little wet here, and Ideally you want to fill it up when its at least a few degrees below freezing, and not snowing, to get the best quality ice.
after a couple days of good cold weather, you're ready to skate on your new rink.
Ready to take your rink to the next level? Try adding some under ice lighting, and maybe some spotlights, for night skating/hockey.
Read more about my ice rinks and lighting solutions here
Maybe you want something a little more professional. EZ Ice Rinks are by far, the best on the market. They are not cheap, but will provide years of enjoyment, and they look amazing. Check them out here
Comments
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Great job with design and execution. So much fun for the kids❣️
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Wow - this brings back so many memories. My dad built an ice rink in our backyard every year when I was growing up. He didn’t use a form - just the perimeter of the yard.
When it snowed, he would shovel it off to create snow banks around the edge.
After Christmas, we would collect all the discarded real Christmas trees in the neighborhood to line the banks. It was a literal winter-wonderland!!
It has become a favorite memory of the entire family.
i do like your idea of using a form - thanks for posting!
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
We ya all go break a leg!
How do you remove the snow? I know shoveling is generally the only way, but just wondered if you also have a better way to resurface or keep the ice usable.
Thanks!