Rideau Canal Skateway
An historic waterway spring through fall, the Ottawa portion of the Rideau Canal freezes over in winter to become the world's largest naturally frozen skating rink.
Fast Facts
- The Rideau Canal Skateway is maintained and operated by the National Capital Commission, is open to skaters daily January through late February (weather permitting) and is free of charge - although donations supporting the Skateway's maintenance can be made at boxes at various entry points.
- The Skateway stretches over 7 kilometres from downtown next to the National Arts Centre, south to Dow's Lake Pavilion.
- On cold nights, workers drill holes in the Canal ice and pump water onto the surface.
- Change huts and snack stations can be found at various locations along the Canal.
- If you don't have skates, you can rent them here; you can also rent bright red sleighs and push those who can't skate themselves.
- On beautiful winter days, skaters by the thousands fill the Canal.
- The first three weekends of February, the Canal is the focal point for Winterlude, the Capital's annual celebration of winter.
- Many Ottawans who live near the Canal actually skate to work in winter.
