The Rideau Canal runs through the middle of Ottawa from the Ottawa River to Dow's Lake and beyond, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In winter, the National Capital Commission turns part of it into the Rideau Canal Skateway, a 7.8 kilometre ribbon of groomed ice that is free and, when open, available 24 hours a day. People skate to work, to dinner and to the Winterlude festival, warming up with BeaverTails pastries and hot chocolate from stands along the ice. It is the most distinctive thing Ottawa offers, and the reason many people choose the city for a winter trip. But timing matters: the season is usually January to early March, depending on weather, and opening depends entirely on ice thickness. In November there is no skating, so do not plan a trip around it. What you can do now is walk or cycle the canal paths, see the Ottawa Locks near the Chateau Laurier and make a plan for later in the winter.
If you are visiting this month: the canal is still a lovely place to walk. The path along the water from the Ottawa Locks at the Chateau Laurier up past the National Arts Centre toward Dow's Lake gives a feel for the route the Skateway will take, and the stonework of the locks, completed in 1832, is worth a look. The NCC has a packed-snow walking lane alongside the Skateway once enough snow has accumulated, which is a way to experience the canal in winter without skating.
If you are planning for the season: check the NCC Skateway page for daily conditions, as the opening date moves each year and the NCC updates status through the day. Access points are placed along the route, and rentals and skate sharpening are available near several of them. Winterlude, in February, brings ice sculptures and extra events. Dress in layers, wear a helmet if you are not confident, and bring cash or a card for the food stands.
What the Skateway is like: the ice is long, smooth and wide in most places, and the central stretch near downtown is the busiest. Families usually prefer the quieter sections near Dow's Lake, and strong skaters can cover the whole length in a couple of hours. The route passes the National Arts Centre, Parliament Hill, the Chateau Laurier and the Rideau Centre, so you can step off for a coffee or meal anywhere. Since opening depends on temperature, build flexibility into your dates.
What to expect
The experience
A free self-guided skate along 7.8 kilometres of groomed canal ice when open, or a walk along the canal paths and the Ottawa Locks when it is not.
Best time
Mid-winter on a cold, clear day when the ice is open, and check the NCC site first, since opening depends on weather.
How long
One to three hours, depending on how far you skate.
Tips
In November the Skateway is not open. Check daily conditions before you go in winter, rent skates nearby and dress in layers.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Winter visitors who want Ottawa's signature experience, and anyone who enjoys canalside walks the rest of the year.
- Families
- Beginners and children do best on the quieter sections, with a hot chocolate break built in.
- Couples
- Skate at sunset, share a BeaverTail and finish with dinner in the ByWard Market.
- Pair with
- Parliament Hill, the National Gallery and the Chateau Laurier.
- Time needed
- Two hours for a relaxed skate.
Good questions
Can I skate on the Rideau Canal in November?+
No. The Skateway usually opens in January and runs until early March, depending on the weather. In November you can walk the canal paths instead.
How long is the Skateway?+
It is 7.8 kilometres long. When open, it is free and available 24 hours a day.
How do I know if it is open?+
The National Capital Commission posts daily conditions on its Skateway page. Opening depends on ice quality, so check before you head out.
Where do I rent skates?+
Rentals and sharpening are available near several access points along the route. Confirm hours on the NCC site before you travel.
Is the canal worth visiting outside winter?+
Yes. The Ottawa Locks, the canal paths and the stone architecture make it a pleasant walk, and the whole route is UNESCO-listed.
