For a fun and healthy workout, skating--in its various forms--is a fantastic calorie-burner that can be done solo or in a group. Whether you prefer to skate indoors or outside, or feel more confident on wheels rather than blades, a variety of skating facilities are available to the public in and around Asheville.
Roller Skating
Tarwheels Skateway Roller Rink--currently the only roller rink in Asheville--is the place to plan birthday parties, private parties and other large events. With a minimum of 10 people, party space can be reserved for $10 per person--$12 on weekends. The rink's parties include invitations; admission; skate rental; balloons; tables and place settings; beverages and ice cream; and a free pass to the birthday boy or girl. The facility also houses a video arcade and a snack bar. Reservations require a deposit of the minimum charge, or $100.
Skateboarding
In the middle of Asheville, on Cherry Street across from the Civic Center, more daring skaters can find the Food Lion Skate Park. Designed by the city to offer a challenging, but safe, alternative for skateboard enthusiasts, this attractive park welcomes skateboarders of all ages. Opening hours vary between 10 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., depending on the day and the season; however, the park remains open till dark. Daily entry or an annual pass can be purchased, and helmets and pads are available for rental.
Roller Hockey
For a unique take on roller skating, ice skating and hockey, visit Asheville's Carrier Park, located on the west side of town. Considered one of the city's premier parks, the property hosts a large rink made specifically for hockey played on roller or in-line skates. The park allows local leagues as well as informal groups that are interested in trying the sport for the first time. Contact the Asheville Parks & Recreation Department to verify that the rink is not reserved at the time you wish to play.
In-Line Skating
Less than an hour from Asheville is Zero Gravity Skatepark in Brevard. While this indoor facility has skateboarding capabilities, its focus is in-line skating. One-hour lessons can be scheduled for $20 per session for beginner, intermediate and advanced students. Also family-friendly, there are weekly events scheduled, including Toddler Time, Ladies Night, Lock-ins and a Bible study. An annual membership can be purchased, providing discounts throughout the year; or individual admission is available, in addition to skate rental. A snack bar and pro shop are also on site.
Ice Skating
Skaters will need to travel about two hours to hit an ice rink, now that Asheville's Civic Center has closed public skating. Labeled as the state's only ice rink maintained by a Zamboni, skaters will find the outdoor rink at Appalachian Ski Mountain to be set against a scenic backdrop. The rink's floor is refrigerated, and is illuminated each evening for nighttime skating. A bonfire is kept lit by the side of the rink for skaters and observers. Skating costs $14 per session, and either figure or hockey skates can be rented during the November to March skating season.
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