While the popularity of outdoor rinks are on the rise, so are skating tails – including the one right here in London.
Storybook Gardens has had their skating trail fully operational since the beginning of December and despite the warmer than seasonal temperatures Manager John Riddle says they have been able to stay open.
The trail has a concrete base and is 250 meters and winds around in the park. The trail is refrigerated from below which allows them to maintain good ice conditions despite the weather and is maintained by a Zamboni.
Riddle Tells XFM News they had a great Christmas break and believes having no snow made it easier for skaters and visitors to make it out.
The trail was created in 2003 during a major renovation to one of the Forest Cities main tourist attraction.
At the time of the creation Riddle believes there wasn’t any other trails in Ontario and now there are a few across Ontario and are known as “ Ontario’s Best Kept Secret”.
Riddle says it fits their layout perfectly as you can skate around the tress and have holiday lights up and have music playing throughout the trail.
Riddle notes it is a unique experience and they usually see people come back more than once.
The hours vary at the park and skate rental is available and it’s best to check the website at www.storybook.london.ca before heading out.