Unless they also put on some fine old vintage ice skates – then they could promenade, glide, slide and do figure eights, taking full advantage of the heavy layers typical of the day should they fall.

For the public in 2020 attire, the flooded field is just about ready for them to enjoy some time on the ice.

Heather Jensen, curator and museum manager, said that if the temperatures stay cold, the Fort is on track to open the rink on Friday.

“Everything is up to Mother Nature,” she said.

-Messenger photo by Hans Madsen
Heather Jensen, curator and museum manager at the Fort Museum and Frontier Village, checks over the skates they have available for rent on their ice rink.

The expected hours are noon to 4 p.m. on Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays.

For the safety of visitors, ice skating will only happen when the weather permits. She said visitors can check the Fort’s Facebook page or call 573-4231 for up to date information on conditions.

Skating fees are $6 for adults, $5 for students with ID and children under 14 $4 and they must be accompanied by an adult.

Season passes can be purchased for $75 for an individual and $150 for a family of up to five.

Skaters can also rent skates. They are available in a variety of limited sizes on a first come first served basis. Skate rental is $3 per pair.

The rink can also be rented privately Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The rate is $50 hour or $150 for a full day.

There is also heat in one of the cabins to allow skaters to warm up.