This winter will feature open skating on a new rink in Glen Arbor.  Located in the Lake Street Woods (behind Leelanau Coffee Roasting and the Cottage Book Shop), the 40′ x 60′ sheet of ice will be open to skaters of all age.

Spearheaded by Lee Houtteman, “it will be a true family-style skating rink. We’ll have some lights and music, and just bring folks together for some fun,” says Lee.  “All ability levels are welcome, we will have milk crates on the ice to help the younger kids get started.” Ed Connolly, Lee Houtteman, Glen Arbor Athletic Club, Cherry Republic, and Leelanau Coffee Roasting are the lead donors, with several others helping out to pay for the site preparation, boards, and plastic liner.

Skating will occur from when the ice freezes until it melts in the spring.  Lights, music, and overall skating times will be developed as demand is recorded.  Stephanie & Bob Sutherland will keep an eye on the rink, and encourage folks to park on Pine Street and walk down the lane to the rink.

“Leelanau Coffee Roasting will try and adapt to the hours if there is demand–we usually close at 3 p.m. on Friday and Sunday,” says Michael Buhler.  “Coffee, hot chocolate, and the bathrooms will all be available, but we can’t have skates inside the cafe,” he adds.

If you’d like to submit feedback on skating and Cafe hours, you’re welcome to contact Mike in the Cafe, or via email: mike@coffeeguys.com