REGION — As winter weather settles in, area ice skating rinks are beginning to open. Rinks in Kineowatha Park in Wilton and Mt. Blue State Park in Weld have opened for the season but hours are dependent on the weather.

There is no fee to use the Wilton Recreation Department rink. For those without ice skates, there are plenty available in the warming shack. There are also a variety of stability aids available to help younger or inexperienced skaters get a feel for the ice.

The shack is open Monday through Thursday 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Friday 3:30 to 6 p.m.; and weekends noon to 6 p.m. Lights at the outdoor rink stay on until 8:30 p.m. nightly.

For updates on weather closings or to arrange special hours for group outings, call 645-4825, email [email protected], of visit Wilton Recreation Department on Facebook.

The Mt. Blue State Park rink overlooks views of Webb Lake and the western mountains. The rink is located at park headquarters, 299 Center Hill Road.

Some skates are available in the heated yurt next to the rink. The yurt is open daily 9 a.m. to sunset. The rink can be lit for those interested in an evening skate.

There is a $5 self-pay day fee for adults to access the rink and recreation trails in the park. A reduced rate is available for older children. There is no fee for younger children and seniors.

For more information, including conditions, call 585-2261 or visit the park website on www.maine.gov.

The rink at Hippach Field in Farmington was not open as of Monday morning, Dec. 30. However, Matt Foster, director of parks and recreation said he was keeping an eye on the weather and was hopeful conditions would allow for an opening soon.

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