When winter settles over Northwest Colorado, the focus often turns to vast snowmobile tracks and frozen lakes. However, for those looking to glide across fresh sheets of ice or take part in high-intensity winter sports, the region boasts an exceptional hub for hard-water blade action. While the surrounding backcountry is raw and unmaintained, the community of Craig provides a premier, dedicated facility that stands as the crown jewel of winter sports in the county.

The Epicenter of Northwest Colorado Skating: Loudy-Simpson Park Ice Arena

Located right in the heart of Craig at 600 South Ranney Street, the Loudy-Simpson Park Ice Arena (often referred to by locals as the Moffat County Ice Arena) is the undisputed center for all ice skating and hockey operations in the region. This top-tier facility serves as a massive community asset during the cold winter months.

Youth Hockey & Competitive Action

The arena is a high-energy home base for regional competitive winter sports leagues. It provides daily practice space and high-octane weekend game schedules for several prominent organizations:

• Colorado Extreme Hockey Association: Bringing intensive youth hockey development programs and high-level training to the county.

• Craig Youth Hockey Association (The Craig Bulldogs): The long-standing hometown favorite for youth developmental leagues.

• The Colorado Fighting Elk: For fans looking for fast-paced, high-intensity matchups, this team packs the arena, drawing up to 1,000 passionate spectators for weekend evening games featuring drinks, snacks, and lively intermission activities.

Public Skating & Family Fun

It isn’t just for competitive athletes. The Loudy-Simpson Park Ice Arena regularly opens its doors to the general public, offering open skate times, family gliding sessions, and casual “Stick & Puck” hours.

• The Vibe: High-energy, family-friendly, and a fantastic indoor retreat from the intense winter winds of the high desert flats.

• Scenic Location: The arena sits just south of downtown Craig within the sprawling Loudy-Simpson Park complex right near the banks of the scenic Yampa River, allowing you to easily pair a skating session with a crisp winter walk along the riverfront.

Pro-Tips for Hitting the Ice in Moffat County

Check the Weekly Drop-In Schedules: Because the Loudy-Simpson Park Ice Arena hosts multiple youth leagues, competitive team practices, and regional hockey tournaments, public skating hours can change from week to week. Always check the official Moffat County Parks Department schedule online or call the arena shop before loading up your gear.

Dress in Layers: Even though the facility provides structural cover from the outdoor elements, the interior rink arena is kept at a crisp, freezing temperature to maintain top-tier ice quality. Heavy socks, gloves, and layers are highly recommended.

Safety First: If you are introducing toddlers or beginners to the ice during public sessions, helmets are strongly encouraged to ensure a safe, fun introduction to the sport.

Expanding the Winter Itinerary: Regional Alternates

If you are basing your winter vacation out of Craig and want to explore outdoor resort-style skating or unique ice experiences, the neighbouring geothermal and ski corridors of Routt County are located just 40 to 45 minutes east along Highway 40:

• Skeeter’s Ice Rink (Steamboat Square): A festive, boutique outdoor village rink situated right at the base of the Steamboat Ski Resort. It is completely free to the public if you bring your own skates, surrounded by outdoor fire pits and rocking chairs.

• Howelsen Ice Arena (Steamboat Springs): A massive indoor Olympic-sized sheet that offers public sessions and a highly unique “Bumper Cars on Ice” experience for those who prefer to zoom across the ice without blades.