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The world’s largest skating rink is located in Ontario, and fortunately for us, it’s now ready to enjoy. If you’re planning to visit this year, here’s what to know about the Rideau Canal Skateway for 2026.
As of Jan. 7, 2026, the Rideau Canal Skateway is open for business, allowing skaters to enjoy its full 7.8 km length. The iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site had partially opened on New Year’s Eve, giving those eager to partake in winter fun a great way to end the year.
For years, the skateway has been the centrepiece for outdoor winter fun, especially during the city’s free annual winter festival, Winterlude.
The skating season typically runs until early March, but it is definitely weather-dependent. We can thank the early blast of winter cold for making conditions right for an early opening.
How the Rideau Canal Skateway gets ready for the season
The National Capital Commission has been 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 ice has to be AT LEAST 30 cm thick for some skating fun. “This means there needs to be about 10-14 straight days of -10 to -20 degree Celsius days in order for the quality of the ice to meet the standards of safe skating,” they add.
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. Residents even use it as a shortcut to get to and from work.
For those unfamiliar 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.
At the time of writing, not all food and beverage kiosks are open yet. The NCC has listed locations and their statuses on their website.
And it’s important to note that due to rehabilitation work, the Patterson Creek skating area will remain closed for the season
Can you rent skates at the Rideau Canal?
You sure can! 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.
Rideau Canal Skateway
When: Accessible 7 days a week
Time: 24 hours a day
Where: Ottawa, Ont.
Cost: Free
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