Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
There are many ways to enjoy the outdoors in the winter: hiking, downhill skiing, and snowshoeing to name a few, but if you want to try a new fun outdoor adventure, you might want to consider – ice skating! I recently spent a lovely day ice skating on Lake Morey in Fairlee, Vermont.
This 4.3 mile groomed ice skating trail is said to be the longest in the United States and is completely free! Below you can see what you need to know to plan your visit to ice skate on Lake Morey.
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What to Expect Ice Skating on Lake Morey
The track starts in front and to the left of the Lake Morey Lodge at the public beach. Benches make it easy to put on your skates and from here you can head out on the lake. The 4+ mile track goes around the lake and circles back to the start where you will find a smaller track and a number of small hockey rinks.
Surrounded by low mountains and hills, the ice track is beautiful and is a lovely way to spend the day. On my visit we did several laps around the track.
Pro tip: pay attention to the wind which is stronger on the lake.
What to Know about Ice Skating on Lake Morey
Is Skating on Lake Morey Safe?
Where is Lake Morey
Lake Morey is located in Fairlee, Vermont right near the border of NH and the town of Orford. It’s just of route 91 and easy to drive to.
Skate Rental
If you don’t have your own skates, you can rent skates right at the lake. Skates are free if you are staying at the resort or you can rent starting at 10 am (returned by 4:45. View rates, sizes and equipment lists on the Rentals Page. You can also rent snowshoes, helmets and other winter gear.
When is the Lake Morey Ice Skating Open?
The ice skating at Lake Morey only operates when the ice is very thick after a long cold spell. This is typically Jan and Feb, but you should check the official page before you visit. You can’t skate when temperatures are over 32 degrees.
When there is enough ice, they will clear the ice of snow AND if the ice is really thick they will smooth it.
Are Dogs Allowed for skating on Lake Morey?
Dogs are allowed but you need to clean up after them and they should be well behaved.
How much does it Cost to Skate at Lake Morey
It’s FREE. This is one of the best things about this activity – it’s completely free if you have your own skates. Free to skate and free to park.
Staying at Lake Morey Resort
Consider staying right at the resort for easy access to the ice trail, cozy accommodations, and lakeside views. The Lake Morey Resort offers rooms and cabins and is a great destination in the winter and the summer.
Where Else to Ice Skate in New England
Here are a few managed and wild places to skate in New England:
- Patriot Place Winter Skate: Foxborough, MA: This newly designed outdoor skating path in the South Marketplace near Gillette Stadium offers a scenic outdoor skating experience with a flowing loop-style track rather than a traditional oval. It’s open to the public through the winter season with skate rentals, lights, and a festive atmosphere suitable for all skill levels.
- Puddle Duck Pond in Portsmouth, NH — known locally for outdoor skating when ice is thick enough.
- Local frozen ponds around Lowell Rd or Lowell/Kennedys Pond near Concord, MA — popular with folks who skate outside when safe ice forms.
- White Park Pond, Concord, NH: In winter, the large pond in White Park traditionally becomes a community outdoor skating surface when frozen solid.
⚠️ Safety Reminder: Always check ice thickness (generally at least 6 inches) and local permissions before skating on natural ice. Ice conditions can vary widely across ponds and are not guaranteed every winter.
