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.
When Should You Start Planning?
Summer through early fall is a good time to begin. Planning while the ground is clear gives us time to measure your yard, confirm a suitable location, and reserve equipment and installation time.
Spring and Summer: Assess your space and consider any property improvements needed before winter. Our guide, Can You Build a Backyard Ice Rink in Any Yard?, explains what makes a suitable location.
September and October: Finalize your rink size, rental package, placement, and upgrades. Availability is limited, so contact us early to discuss the upcoming season.
November: Most Polar Bear Rinks board installations happen during November, ahead of consistent freezing temperatures.
When Freezing Weather Arrives: We return to install the liner and begin filling. The timing depends on the forecast and conditions at your rink.
Later in Winter: Installation may still be possible, depending on equipment availability, crew scheduling, and weather. Contact us to check before making plans.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Backyard Rink?
Installation time depends on rink size, yard conditions, access, and upgrades. At Polar Bear Rinks, installation happens in two visits: first the boards, then the liner and initial fill when freezing weather is suitable.
Filling and freezing take additional time. Water depth, hose flow, and temperatures all affect when your rink will be ready to skate.
Read Backyard Ice Rink Rentals: How They Work for a walkthrough of the consultation, installation, and spring removal process.
What If I Want to Build It Myself?
Start planning before the ground freezes. Measure the elevation difference across your proposed rink footprint, choose suitable boards and supports, and size your liner to account for water depth and board height.
Order equipment with enough time to check that you have everything needed. Also plan how you’ll fill the rink, maintain the ice, and store the equipment in spring.
Our guide, How to Build a Backyard Ice Rink (Step-by-Step Guide), walks through the DIY process.
If you’d prefer professional installation, spring removal, and equipment storage, explore our backyard ice rink rental packages.
Ready to Start Planning?
Polar Bear Rinks offers complete seasonal rink rentals, including installation, spring removal, and equipment storage.
Request a yard consultation so we can measure your space, discuss your options, and check availability for the upcoming season.
FAQ: Planning a Backyard Ice Rink
Can I still have a rink installed after winter begins?
Sometimes. Availability depends on equipment, crew scheduling, weather, and yard conditions. Contact us to check what’s possible.
What if my yard has a slope?
We measure the elevation difference across your proposed rink footprint before confirming suitability. We prefer 10 inches or less of slope. Some locations may qualify with up to 12 inches using standard boards or up to 14 inches using tall boards, subject to our assessment.
How far in advance should I book?
Summer through early fall gives you more time to confirm your location and plan installation. Booking is subject to availability; contacting us early helps us assess your yard before snow and frozen ground make planning more difficult.