The Rideau Canal Skateway winds its way through the heart of the National Capital over a total length of 7.8 km. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal in winter becomes a treasure that is the pride of the National Capital and a signature destination.

Ice skating on the Rideau Canal is enjoyed with friends and family and creates memorable moments for years to come. Come and enjoy this winter tradition in heart of the Capital. We carry all sizes of skates and sleighs. We also rent kicksleds and support bars for beginner skaters.

The Rideau Canal Skateway extends from downtown Ottawa to the Hartwells Locks, including Dows Lake. From one end to the other, there are about 30 staircases and 5 universal access ramps leading to the skating rink. Light rail transit (O-Train) stations and parking areas are located near the Skateway entrances.

The Rideau Canal Skateway is 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles) in length, which makes it the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink. The canal goes along all the famous tourist spots in the city like the Parliament building, Fairmont Chateau Laurier, and downtown Ottawa, and goes all the way up to Dow’s Lake.

Every winter, the Rideau Canal turns into the Rideau Canal Skateway, aka, the world’s largest skating rink! From roughly January to late February or March, you can skate any section of the 7.8 kilometres (4.8 miles) thanks to its universally accessible ramps and facilities.

Jan 17, 2025 · The Rideau Canal Skateway is ready for you, every last icy kilometre. The full 7.8-kilometre stretch opened on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 8 a.m., a rare occurrence after recent seasons...

Jan 17, 2024 · The Rideau Canal Skateway is a part of the free Winterlude festivities in Ottawa held every February. Along with skating on the Rideau Canal, you’ll find ice sculptures from global artists, a snow playground for kids, Indigenous cultural activities, and …

Every winter the Rideau Canal transforms into the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink. Welcoming nearly one million visitors each year (a daily average of 20,000 visitors), the skateway is 7.8 km long stretching from Ottawa downtown to Dows Lake.

Ottawa is home to the largest natural ice rink in the world, as designated by the Guinness World Records. Each year, from January to February, the picturesque Rideau Canal, the only World Heritage Site by UNESCO in Ontario, freezes and welcomes thousands of visitors for winter fun.

Aug 2, 2024 · Interested inn skating on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa? Here's the ultimate guide to know if it's open, the condition of the ice, and what you'll need!