As the weather has finally dropped below zero and we're seeing more signs of winter weather that also mean more winter activities to do in Okotoks.

When the air gets a little cooler you'll soon see outdoor rinks return to their natural glory.

There are a couple larger rinks at both the Okotoks Rec Centre and Pason Centennial Arena but if those rinks are full, Parks Manager for the Town Of Okotoks Christa Michailuck says there's plenty of other options when it comes to ODR's.

"We have Ardiel Park, Cedargrove Park, Westridge Close Park along with Suntree Park, Cimmarron Park and also downtown Okotoks near the plaza," she says.

Michailuck says before strapping on the blades when you see ice beginning to form on the rinks you should make sure the surface is strong enough to take more than just a few strides.

"We ask that people stay off them until the ice is actually frozen," she says. "We find it really challenging to establish a thick enough ice layer and children might be anxious  to get on it and can punch some holes through it and it can take some time to get established."

Michailuck says its hard to tell people to stay off the rinks as the rinks are always open, so she hope patrons will wait that extra time for the ice to form.

She mentions that if certain neighbourhoods are interested in getting an outdoor rink set-up in their community the Town can easily have a look and see if they set-up another surface more convenient to the request.

"They can contact Parks and we can evaluate the location they have in mind for topography and access for filling by water truck or other means, it has to be acceptable and ideally and good availability for residents."

To reach the Town Parks Department call 403-938-8031.