Find answers to commonly asked winter skating questions below.
Skate Rental and Concession Stand
What size skates do you carry?
We offer skate rentals on a first-come, first-serve basis. The size range we carry is kids (BAUER LIL CHAMP BLUE) – size 6/7 up to adult hockey (BAUER NSX) – size 12.
Rentals are $12 for adult sizes and $10 for youth sizes (including helmet).
Can I return skates after operating hours?
No. Skates are rented for a maximum 2-hour period. The last time to rent skates is 8:00pm, and all skates must be returned by 8:45pm to the Skate Rental Container.
Why do I have to wear socks when I rent skates?
All our rented skates are available to all members of the public. We require all skaters to wear socks when renting our skates. Socks are available for sale at our Concession Stand for $4.50 per pair.
How can I get my skates sharpened?
Skate sharpening is available during our operating hours for a fee. This year, we offer skate sharpening for both hockey and figure skates. Please see our operating hours here.
What methods of payment do you accept?
Our skate rentals and concessions stand are cashless. We are only able to accept debit or credit cards.
Skating Trail Questions
Do I need to make a reservation to skate?
Skating is free and does not require reservations. Skates and equipment can be rented for a small fee on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Registration is required for our free skate lessons due to high demand. Register for free skate lessons here.
Can I wear my shoes on the ice?
No, only sharpened single-blade skates are allowed on the Skate Trail.
Do I have to wear a helmet while I skate?
It is highly recommended that all skaters, especially those aged 6 and under, wear a helmet approved by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) while on the ice. Please note that bike helmets are not CSA-approved for use on ice surfaces.
Can I play hockey on the Skate Trail?
No. The following items and behaviours are not permitted on the Skate Trail:
- Food and drink
- Smoking
- Littering
- Hockey sticks or any other sports equipment
- Sleds, toboggans, strollers, chairs, or unapproved skating aids
- Rough play, racing, multi-player games, loitering, or obstruction of skaters
- Offensive language, excessive noise, or abusive behaviour
Can I bring a stroller onto the ice?
No. The following items and behaviours are not permitted on the Skate Trail:
- Food and drink
- Smoking
- Littering
- Hockey sticks or any other sports equipment
- Sleds, toboggans, strollers, chairs, or unapproved skating aids
- Rough play, racing, multi-player games, loitering, or obstruction of skaters
- Offensive language, excessive noise, or abusive behaviour
Do you have skate aids?
We have skate aids (colourful plastic frames) available to borrow at the Skate Trail. Skate aids are limited in supply and offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Unapproved personal skate aids are not permitted on the ice.
Can I skate outside of your opening hours if I have my own skates?
No. The Skate Trail is not maintained or staffed outside of operating hours and we kindly ask that people do not skate during these times as we cannot guarantee the safety or quality of the ice.
Will the Skate Trail be busy?
We’re unable to definitively say how busy the Skate Trail will be as numbers vary by day and time. Typically, the Skate Trail is busiest on weekends and evenings.
General
Do you have lockers?
Unfortunately, we do not have lockers on site.
Where can I put my belongings?
It is best to keep your personal belongings with you at all times. Some people bring a small backpack to place their shoes in and skate with it. Others leave their belongings under seats, but please note that The Bentway is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Be sure to keep valuables on your person.
Is there a place to warm up?
We do not have an indoor space for visitors to stay in. There is an outdoor warming container that can be used for putting skates on and rest. Our washroom facilities, concession stand, and first aid station are indoors.
Are there public washrooms available?
Public washrooms are available on site. Washrooms are open during skating operating hours. Please find our operating hours here.
When is the ice maintained?
Ice is maintained during operating hours. Zamboni floods will occur as needed based on weather, the number of skaters, and ice conditions.
Skaters must be off the ice when the ice is being resurfaced.
Can I book a private event with exclusive access to the ice?
Please email hello@thebentway.ca for event rental requests so we can best direct your inquiry to the right team.