Rideau Canal Skateway

Canada’s Capital Region: Canadian, just like you.

Skating on the Rideau Canal

Maps and Publications

Take a skate along the world’s largest skating rink! Each winter the historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is transformed into a 7.8-kilometre skating rink. The world-famous skateway winds it way through the heart of Ottawa, stretching from downtown to Dows Lake.

The Rideau Canal skate season typically runs from January to late February. Check the ice conditions (613-239-5234) for up to date information.

Grab your skates and experience the Capital tradition of skating on the Rideau Canal!

Facilities
Washrooms	Washrooms are open weekdays, from 8 am to 10 pm and weekends, from 8 am to 11 pm. Most washrooms are universally accessible. Located on the ice near the following: Mackenzie King Bridge Concord Street North Fifth Avenue Bronson Avenue Dows Lake Pavilion Located on land at: Patterson Creek (not universally accessible from the ice) Dows Lake Pavilion
Parking	Parking near the Rideau Canal Skateway includes the following locations: Rideau Centre ($) National Arts Centre ($) (50 metres from the NAC access ramp) Ottawa City Hall (from Elgin Street) ($) World Exchange Plaza (weekends, free; weekdays, $) Lansdowne Park ($) Bronson Avenue parking lot ($) (60 metres from the Bronson Avenue access ramp) 580 Booth Street (weekdays, 6 to 11 pm; weekends, 8 am to 11 pm) Dows Lake ($) Most parking locations are marked on the Rideau Canal Skateway map.
Picnic Areas	Picnic tables and food and beverage vendors are located on the ice by: Mackenzie King Bridge Concord Street Fifth Avenue Bronson Avenue Dows Lake Pavilion Patterson Creek Open daily, from 11 am to 10 pm or longer.
Please note that services are available only in the open sections of the Skateway. Hours of operation may change without notice.