Wild Ice Skating in Anchorage: A Global Phenomenon

0:00Hey, it's Cory with Anchorage News, today, your city, your news, every day. Wild ice skating on natural outdoor ice is surging in popularity in Anchorage, Alaska. Once a quiet winter pastime, it's now a major draw for thousands of locals. The wild ice skating club of Alaska grew from nothing to over 12,000 members in just a few years. Popular spots like Portage Lake and Aklutna Lake see packed parking lots full of skaters, families, and dogs whenever conditions are right. Earlier this season, the Anchorage assembly declared, November wild ice skating month, boosting its status even more. The activity fills the gap when snow is low, and other winter sports struggle, turning tough days into highlights of the season. The buzz has gone global, with coverage from the New York Times, BBC, and Newsweek. Visitors have flocked in, including Swiss figure skaters and a former teen USA skater who spent weeks filming the first full-length wild ice movie. Here, Anchorage stands out thanks to easy airport access, good roads to hundreds of lakes,

1:05and a climate that freezes waters gradually over months. Jaw-dropping spots range from city parks to glacial lagoons, and even views of Denali, all fueled by a welcoming community of adventure seekers. This trend lifts public health, sparks local spending on gear and trips, and supports jobs and shops and beyond. It's a bright spot in the outdoor economy, and locals are encouraged to grab skates, join outings, or help grow the scene through events and, maintenance. Special thanks to our sponsor for supporting this episode. What is cooler than cool, a pillow that plays your sound, S-O-L-I-S-O-L-P-L-O.com.