Ottawa’s Rideau Canal, the world’s largest skating rink, is now fully open after recent warm years limited access
Rideau Canal Fully Open for Ice Skating
Ottawa’s Rideau Canal is now fully open for ice skating, according to the National Capital Commission (NCC).
The NCC, which manages the iconic skateway, announced on its website that the full 7.8-kilometre path opened at 8 a.m. on Monday. However, the Patterson Creek skating area will remain closed for the season due to rehabilitation work, as stated by the NCC in a post on X on Sunday.
On New Year’s Eve, a 3.4-kilometre section between the Somerset West access point and the Bank Street Bridge opened for skaters.
The Rideau Canal skateway is known as the world’s largest rink, although conditions for skating have not always been ideal in recent years.
The skateway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remained closed in 2023 and had limited openings in 2024 due to warm weather.
The NCC mentioned that the skating season usually runs from January to early March, but it depends on weather conditions.
According to the NCC, the skateway can open to the public only when the ice surface is at least 30 centimetres (12 inches) thick and of good quality. To achieve this, NCC ice experts need about 10 to 14 consecutive days of temperatures between -10°C and -20°C.
When open, the skateway is free and accessible at all times, as stated by the NCC.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Rideau Canal, Ottawa |
| Path Length | 7.8 km |
| Opening Time | 8 a.m. on Monday |
| Patterson Creek Status | Closed for rehabilitation |
| UNESCO Status | World Heritage Site |
| Typical Season | January to early March |
| Ice Thickness Requirement | 30 cm (12 inches) |
| Temperature Requirement | -10°C to -20°C for 10-14 days |
