Our Mission is to Foster community through the joys of outdoor skating and recreation.
Our Story
Since 1999, we have been providing outdoor ice skating in the beautiful Methow Valley to locals and visitors alike. That year, we became a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for the purpose of building and managing a refrigerated outdoor rink on grounds owned by the Town of Winthrop. The facility and ground consist of: newly installed refrigerated, NHL-sized ice rink equipped with boards and glass, and a 6,000 square foot building with four changing rooms, 2 showers, bathrooms, rental skates and second-story warming and viewing room with ping pong tables. In the winter months, the rink is used for ice-related activities such as skating, hockey and figure skating. In summer months, we host pickleball, roller/inline skating, roller hockey, and other activities. Our facility has limited availability for private rental, so bring your own activity!
our History
Mid 1990's - Volunteers worked with Town of Winthrop to operate a seasonal rink at the Winthrop Barn and to convert an out-building for Zamboni storage.
2003 - After many attempts at receiving grant funds, we are finally successful in landing the first $375,000 matching funds IAC/RCO grant
2003 - Land is acquired for rink just south of Winthrop
2007 - Marc Robertson leads group of volunteers to partner with Town of Winthrop and build the official Winthrop Ice & Sports Rink (WISR) facility. After countless hours of donated labor, donated materials, community elbow grease and $801,000, the Rink emerged: a non refrigerated, uncovered, NHL regulation outdoor rink.
2015 - WISR board leads $994,000 capital campaign to provide refrigeration at the rink and extend its season to the shoulder seasons (November-March).
2016 - On November 18, 2016, Winthrop Rink opened for the first time with refrigeration and held a grand opening celebration on December 1, 2016