City of Hamilton encouraging residents to “embrace the season” with winter recreation activities

From the simple joy of skating under the starry night to the thrill of winter golf and disc golf, Hamilton’s winter recreation offerings have something for everyone., says Mayor Andrea Horwath, who is encouraging Hamiltonians to embrace the winter season and stay active.

Hamilton has City-operated outdoor ice rinks and free drop-in skating available daily until 10 p.m. at Serafini Family Ice Pad at Bernie Morelli Recreation Centre, Dundas Driving Park, Freelton Community Park, and Waterdown Memorial Park, weather permitting.

These rinks are maintained by City staff but there are also outdoor rinks run by community volunteers for a more “intimate experience” that will open after December 12 – weather permitting, of course.

Information on opening dates and schedules is available at www.hamilton.ca/outdoorice.

Skating enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels can also participate in drop-in skating programs at Hamilton arenas. Visit www.hamilton.ca/skating for schedules and program times.

Golf aficionados can continue their passion through the winter months at Chedoke Golf Club’s Martin Course from November 22 to March 10, while Disc Golf enthusiasts can indulge in the newest rage and challenge themselves at King’s Forest Golf Club from December 1 to March 17. Both are weather-dependent.

For winter golf tee time bookings, call (905) 521-3970. Disc golf enthusiasts can secure their spot by calling (905) 546-4781.

If winter hiking is more your thing there is a scenic 2.5-kilometre winter walking trail at King’s Forest. The club also offers an equipment lending program that includes Nordic walking poles and snowshoes, available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For thrill-seekers, tobogganing hills are open at Chedoke, Dundas Driving Park, Garth and Stone Church Reservoir, King’s Forest and Waterdown Memorial Park.

For more details and updates, visit www.hamilton.ca/outdoorprograms.

For parents looking to keep the kids busy during the holiday break, youth seasonal recreation passes are available in books of 10 are available, with each ticket providing access to one scheduled drop-in swim, gym, and skate session for youth aged 17 and under. For more information, including where to purchase passes, visit www.hamilton.ca/recpasses.

“Nothing beats skating under the stars or going on a winter hike,” Horwath said. “Stay active this season by taking advantage of all the winter recreation activities the City of Hamilton has to offer.”

“Have some fun with family and friends, stay active, and embrace the winter season.”