Frozen Assets

If you build it, they will come. And skate. And stay. And spend. We’re talking about ice arenas and rinks, a proposition more and more mountain resorts are considering and embracing. Ice, it turns out, can be a year-round attraction.

Two of the best known and most popular ice arenas are from opposite ends of existence. At Sun Valley, Idaho, the famed outdoor rink has been a huge draw since it was built in 1936, and its “newer” (read: only decades old) indoor arena has also been very successful. At Jay Peak, Vermont, the shiny new (opened in 2010) arena is a massive draw as well, hosting hockey tournaments and events year-round.