When Should You Start Planning Your Backyard Ice Rink?

❄️ Why Timing Matters

When it comes to building a backyard ice rink in Minnesota, the most common mistake is families waiting until the snow falls to start planning. By then, it’s often too late to get the best location, size, or materials—and you might miss out on some of the best skating days of the season.

If you’re thinking about a rink for your backyard this winter, the best time to start is now.

📅 So, When Should You Start Planning?

Short answer: Summer through early fall.

Here’s a breakdown of what happens (and when):

• Spring–Summer:
  This is the ideal time to book a free consultation. The ground is clear, we can easily evaluate your yard, and you’ll be first in line for install when the weather turns cold.

• September–October:
  This is the sweet spot for ordering materials, customizing your setup, and finalizing your install plan. You beat the rush—and avoid any supply shortages.

• November–December:
  Install season begins when temperatures drop consistently below freezing. If your prep work is done early, we can install your rink as soon as your yard is ready.

• After the holidays:
  By this point, you’ve likely missed out on weeks of ideal ice time—and most installers are booked solid.

🧊 How Long Does It Take to Build a Backyard Rink?

It depends on the size and slope of your yard, but most rink installs take 2 to 4 hours once we’re onsite. Planning, however, takes longer. We recommend booking your consultation at least 1–2 months before your ideal install window.

📍 What If I Want to Build It Myself?

Even if you're going the DIY route, you’ll want to:

• Plan for board height and water depth

• Order your liner and brackets early (they often sell out)

• Prepare your yard surface before it freezes

We offer DIY rink kits and support if you need help picking the right size and layout for your space.

🏒 Ready to Start Planning?

We’re offering free consultations all summer long to help families design their dream rink and get ahead of the season. Whether you want to rent a rink, build it yourself, or have us install it, we’ll walk you through every step.

👉 Book your free consultation today and let’s make this the winter your family never forgets.

❓FAQ: Planning a Backyard Ice Rink

Q: Can I still install a rink if I wait until winter?
A: Sometimes—but you’ll likely face delays, higher costs, or limited options.

Q: What if my yard has a slope?
A: We can usually make it work! Our team can assess your yard and recommend a solution during your free consultation.

Q: How far in advance should I book an install?
A: The earlier, the better. We recommend booking by late summer to guarantee availability.