Yosemite National Park, California

The Curry Village Ice Skating Rink in Yosemite is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. The day we went there was very little snow on the ground, the air was clean and crisp and the sky a deep blue. It was a bit of a family reunion as we had family from Texas and Arizona visiting. The rink offers two hour sessions, skate rental, a warming tent, hot cocoa and coffee and an outdoor fire. Helmets are available free. The Rink is located in Curry Village right on the free shuttle route. We had a wonderful time skating, visiting and enjoying the magnificent view of Half Dome with a light dusting of snow while we made our way around the rink. Afterwards, dinner at the Ahwahnee Hotel and refreshments by the HUGE fireplace capped off a fantastic day.

You will not run out of things to do and see no matter how long you stay in Yosemite. The hike up the mist trail is not to be missed, and an in-shape, motivated eight-year-old could make it to the top.