Rideau Canal Skateway Opens for 56th Season in Ottawa
Ottawa, January 11, 2026 – The Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink, has officially opened for its 56th season in Ottawa. Stretching 7.8 kilometres from downtown Ottawa to Dow’s Lake, this UNESCO World Heritage Site transforms into a winter wonderland, welcoming skaters, walkers, and visitors to enjoy the crisp Canadian winter. Managed by the National Capital Commission (NCC), the skateway offers free access 24 hours a day, weather permitting, with amenities like skate rentals, food stands, and walking lanes.
History and Significance
The Rideau Canal, built in 1832 as a military waterway, has evolved into a beloved recreational destination. In winter, it becomes the Skateway, a tradition since 1970. This year marks the 56th anniversary of skating on the canal, attracting nearly one million visitors annually. The canal’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights its engineering marvel, with 30 access points, 13 sections, and universal ramps for accessibility. Non-skaters can walk along designated lanes, while skaters glide past iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill and the Fairmont Château Laurier. The Skateway also ties into Ottawa’s Winterlude festival, featuring ice sculptures, live music, and cultural events.
Season Details and Amenities
The 2026 season began with a 3.6-kilometre section opening between the Somerset and Bank access points at 8 a.m. on January 11, expanding to the full length by January 18. Ice conditions require at least 30 centimetres of thickness, achieved through 10-14 days of temperatures between -10°C and -20°C. The NCC maintains the ice with nightly flooding and daily snow removal using specialized equipment like the “Froster.” Rentals are available at locations such as Capital Skates near the National Arts Centre and Fifth Avenue, including skates ($33 for 2 hours), sleighs ($49), ice trikes ($53), and kicksleds ($41). Amenities include Beavertail stands for treats, boot cubbies, washrooms, and change rooms. Walking lanes are open along Queen Elizabeth Driveway, and night skating under city lights adds a magical touch. Note that Patterson Creek remains closed for rehabilitation.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 7.8 kilometres (4.8 miles) |
| Ice Thickness Required | 30 centimetres |
| Annual Visitors | Nearly 1 million (average 19,000 per day) |
| Equivalent Ice Surface | More than 140 NHL rinks or 122 Olympic-sized hockey rinks (223,400 square metres) |
| Access Points | 30 access points and 5 universal ramps |
| Season Duration | January to late February or early March, weather-dependent |
| Rental Hours | Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (no rentals after 8 p.m.) |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Rideau Canal Skateway open?
The skateway is open from January to late February or early March, depending on weather. It operates 24 hours a day once conditions allow, with sections opening progressively. Check the NCC website for real-time updates on ice conditions and open areas.
Is skating on the Rideau Canal free?
Yes, skating is free. Rentals and concessions are available for a fee, but access to the ice is complimentary.
Where can I rent skates or other equipment?
Rentals are available at Capital Skates locations near the National Arts Centre, Fifth Avenue, and Dow’s Lake pavilion. Options include skates, sleighs, ice trikes, kicksleds, and more, with prices starting at $33 for skates (2 hours).
Can non-skaters enjoy the area?
Absolutely. Designated walking lanes allow safe strolling along the edges, and pathways alongside the canal are open. Pets on leashes and strollers are permitted on the ice, but hockey sticks and pucks are not.
What safety measures are in place?
Wear helmets, dress warmly, watch for ice cracks, and stay on designated areas. The NCC monitors conditions daily, and first aid is available at access points. Avoid the ice if it’s too thin or during poor weather.