Scenic Anchorage Ice Skating and Picnic Experience

This ice skating tour in Anchorage offers a refreshing twist on outdoor winter adventures. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of a fun, family-friendly outing that combines natural beauty with hands-on activities.

One thing we particularly love is how the tour balances wild outdoor fun with comfort and education—from learning about local flora and fauna to warming up by fireside with hot drinks. Another highlight is the breathtaking setting — skating at Westchester Lagoon, where ocean views meet towering mountain ranges, is a feast for the senses. Plus, the inclusion of expert guidance ensures even beginners feel confident on the ice.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that weather conditions can affect the experience, and the tour is weather-dependent, potentially canceled if conditions aren’t suitable. It’s best suited for outdoor lovers, families, or anyone curious to try ice skating in a stunning natural environment without the hassle of organizing their own gear and logistics.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, active outing that combines scenic views, learning, and a relaxed social vibe—perfect if you’re in Anchorage and want something that’s both memorable and accessible.

Good To Know

• Scenic setting with views of the ocean and mountain peaks
• All abilities welcome, with guides providing skating help and safety instructions
• Learn about local flora, fauna, and history from knowledgeable guides
• Includes warm drinks, snacks, and fireside relaxation
• Transport provided from downtown Anchorage, making logistics easy
• Weather-dependent, so check conditions before booking

Exploring the Anchorage Ice Skating and Picnic Experience

What makes this tour special?

This guided ice skating adventure at Westchester Lagoon truly stands out because it offers a chance to skate in a natural, untamed environment rather than a commercial rink. With the lagoon’s close proximity to Anchorage’s downtown, it’s surprisingly accessible—just a quick five-minute drive from the city center.

You’ll get to enjoy ocean views on one side and the Alaska Front Range peaks on the other, creating a dramatic backdrop for your skating. The setting feels authentically wild but still comfortable, thanks to the included hot drinks and fireside picnic which provide relief and warmth after a few turns on the ice.

The itinerary in detail

You’ll start your day at the downtown headquarters located at 1343 G St, where guides conduct a brief safety orientation and help you gear up with skates, helmets, and balancing poles. This initial step is crucial, especially if you’re new to ice skating, but even seasoned skaters will appreciate the professional equipment.

Once suited up, you’ll hop into a van (or follow in your car) for a short scenic drive of about five minutes to Westchester Lagoon. The lagoon itself is a large, natural ice rink, surrounded by untouched wilderness and stunning views—think of it as skating on a frozen slice of Alaska’s rugged landscape.

Guides like Tegan—who has received praise for her knowledgeable and friendly demeanor—are on hand to teach you ice safety skills and help with skating, regardless of your skill level. According to reviews, even beginners felt like they were “a pro by the end,” which speaks volumes about the supportive atmosphere.

What to bring and wear

Since this is an outdoor activity, wearing appropriate winter clothing is a must. The tour provides some hats and gloves if you forget yours, but layering is key for comfort. Bring your own lunch or snacks to enjoy during the fireside picnic, which adds a cozy touch after some time on the ice.

You’ll also want to bring your own snacks and drinks if you want more than a small snack from the tour, given that the hot beverages are limited to coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. The included snacks, sourced from local spots, offer a delightful taste of Anchorage’s culinary flair.

What guests say

One reviewer, Rebecca, raved about her experience, saying, “We had a great time with Tegan wild ice skating on the lagoon! The skates were great quality. And the hot chocolate and fire were so nice after skating around to get warm before hitting the ice again.” She also appreciated the professional guidance and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Another reviewer noted that the activity is perfect for all ages and abilities, emphasizing how patient guides make sure everyone feels comfortable. The inclusion of skate rental, helmets, and poles ensures that participants don’t need to worry about anything but enjoying the day.

The fireside picnic experience

After skating, you’ll find a cozy fireside area, complete with camp chairs, blankets, and a campfire. Here, you can unwind, share stories, and sip hot drinks while soaking in the scenery. The guides also teach about the local flora, fauna, and history of the area—adding an educational touch to this outdoor adventure.

This part of the tour is what sets it apart from typical skating outings. The opportunity to relax in a natural setting, surrounded by Alaskan wilderness, makes the experience truly memorable.

Pricing and value

At $80 per person for approximately 2.5 hours, this tour offers excellent value, considering the inclusions—skate rentals, helmets, hot drinks, snacks, and guided instruction. The small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a personalized experience, which many travelers value highly.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, bringing your own allows flexibility and keeps costs down. The transportation from downtown Anchorage simplifies logistics, making it accessible even if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Weather considerations

Since the tour is weather-dependent, it’s wise to check the forecast before booking. Poor weather might lead to cancellations, but the policy is flexible—full refunds or rescheduling options are available. This cautious approach preserves the quality of the experience since ice skating on unstable or unsafe ice wouldn’t be enjoyable or safe.

Why this experience works for different travelers

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity that’s suitable for a wide age range and skill level. Families with kids will appreciate the guided instruction and safety equipment, while couples and solo travelers will enjoy the scenic setting and relaxed pace.

If you’ve never skated before, don’t worry—the guides are skilled at making everyone feel comfortable, and as Rebecca’s review suggests, you might even surprise yourself and feel like a seasoned skater by the end. Nature lovers will especially love the dramatic mountain and ocean views—it’s a rare chance to enjoy Alaska’s wilderness in such an intimate, active way.

The fireside picnic and hot drinks add a cozy, communal element that elevates this activity from just exercise to a genuine cultural experience. It’s not just about skating, but about soaking in the Alaskan atmosphere and learning about the region’s natural environment.

Final thoughts

The Scenic Anchorage Ice Skating and Picnic Experience offers a well-rounded, memorable outdoor adventure. The combination of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and relaxed social vibe makes it a fantastic choice for those looking to connect with Alaska’s wild side while staying comfortable and well-supported.

While weather can be unpredictable, the tour’s small-group setting and flexible policy make it a risk worth taking for anyone eager to try ice skating in a truly remarkable setting. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a complete beginner, this experience invites you to enjoy Anchorage’s stunning landscape in a fun, safe, and educational way.

For travelers who want a blend of adventure and relaxation, with the added bonus of learning about local nature and history, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small groups, knowledgeable guides, and scenic outdoor activities.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides teach ice safety and assist with skating, making it accessible for all skill levels.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layered winter clothing. The tour provides some hats and gloves, but bringing your own is recommended.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, instruction, and the fireside picnic.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, you should bring your own lunch if you want more than the provided snacks and small drinks.

Is transportation included?
Transportation from the downtown Anchorage meeting point to Westchester Lagoon is provided via van, but you can also follow in your own vehicle.

What is included in the price?
Ice skates, helmets, balancing poles, hot drinks (coffee, tea, hot cocoa), snacks, a fireside area, and guidance.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Guests praise guides like Tegan for their friendliness and expertise, especially in teaching ice safety and skating techniques.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, with support for beginners and safety gear provided.

In summary, this wild ice skating experience at Westchester Lagoon offers more than just skating—it’s a chance to enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty with expert guidance, warm drinks, and a relaxed fireside setting. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone wanting to add a touch of adventure to their Anchorage trip.