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Ontario is home to the world’s largest natural skating rink

Photo via Angelalmm on Shutterstock

Just when you thought Ontario couldn’t get any better, it turns out it’s home to the world’s largest natural skating rink. And you’ll find it right in the heart of this thrilling city.

If you guessed Ottawa’s Rideau Canal, you’re right! The iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, transforms into a 7.8 km stretch of glistening ice every winter, inviting skaters to glide through a true Canadian winter wonderland.

It opened to the public on Jan. 11, 2025 and has been the centrepiece for outdoor winter fun, especially during the city’s free annual winter festival, Winterlude.

What to know about the Rideau Canal Skateway

The National Capital Commission is in charge of transforming the historic site into a winter destination for years. But it’s not as simple as waiting for ice to freeze over.

According to Ottawa Tourism, the city needs at least 10 to 14 straight days of -10 to -20°C temperatures for the ice to be at least 30 cm in thickness.

The NCC told Curiocity that before it opens, “ice samples must show that there is a good quantity of quality clear ice for safe public skating.” Only then will the decision be made to open the skateway for mass use.

“Just like other organizations, the NCC uses the 30-centimetre benchmark of ice thickness as a simplified guideline in our communications to the public,” they shared. “The 30-centimetre benchmark is used mainly as a requirement to support heavy machinery on the canal. Our experts use different techniques to closely monitor the quality and thickness of the ice.”

Now that the skateway is officially open, visitors can experience just how vast this iconic rink really is. It’s the world’s largest, after all! Stretching through the heart of Ottawa, it offers skaters a unique way to explore the city while gliding across its frozen waters.

For those familiar with the area, the Rideau Canal Skateway extends from downtown Ottawa to the Hartwells Locks, including Dows Lake, according to the National Capital Commission. Along the way, there are about 30 staircases and five universal access ramps that lead to the rink.

Need a break? There are four rest areas spread in different locations on the skateway. Each stop has universally accessible washrooms, including fire pits, picnic tables and benches. Depending on the location, there could be heated change rooms, and food and drink vendors.

But if one thing is for certain in terms of food, Beaver Tails will be available at each rest stop.

Are skating rentals available?

They sure are! Skates, sleighs, and tricycles are available to rent. You must reserve and pay a deposit online before grabbing rentals. They’re available from Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

And if skating isn’t your thing, no worries! You can still soak in the winter magic by walking along the skateway’s edges or taking a scenic stroll on the pathways beside the Rideau Canal.

Whether you’re on skates, shuffling along the edges, or soaking in the winter scenery, the Rideau Canal Skateway offers a wonderful way to experience Ottawa in the colder months.

Make sure to bundle up, hit up the world’s largest natural skating rink and make the most of this iconic winter tradition while you still can.