Today the National Capital Commission announced that as of 8 am the full length of the Rideau Canal Skateway is now open from Rideau to the Hartwell Locks including Patterson Creek and Dows Lake. The NCC says the entire ice surface was swept and flooded. Please beware of cracks and bumps on the ice surface.
As most Ottawa residents are aware, every winter the NCC transforms the historic Rideau Canal into the world’s largest skating rink. The Rideau Canal Skateway winds its way through the heart of downtown Ottawa, over a total length of 7.8 kilometres.
The skating season on the canal typically runs from early January to early March, but as we have especially learned this year it is weather dependent. When open, the Skateway is free and accessible 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
There is also a handy interactive map on the NCC website for checking the ice conditions on each segment of the skateway.
The NCC’s preventive measures stated below are in place for all its assets, at all times. Please note that public health directives and measures established by local authorities also apply.
The NCC advises that all visitors to the Rideau Canal Skateway adhere to the following rules posted on their website:
COVID-19 Measures in place on the skateway
- Mask use recommended on the Skateway (mandatory indoors)
- Hand-washing and use of on-site hand sanitizer recommended
- Bi-directional double staircases
- Yield to oncoming traffic on single staircases
- 100 additional benches
- Carry your belongings with you
What is open and closed on the skateway due to COVID restrictions:
- Washrooms: Open, capacity limited, masks required, sanitizer provided
- Change rooms: Closed
- Cubbies: Closed
- Food and beverage concessions: Closed
- Rentals: Closed
- Other: Fire pits and picnic tables unavailable
Before you venture out to the Rideau Canal Skateway check out these Skateway links:
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