If you love skating on the Rideau Canal in the winter, there’s some great news. With the first cold snap of 2025 settling in across Eastern Ontario, there’s optimism the famous skateway will open soon.
The National Capital Commission (NCC) says that the ice needs to be at least 30 cm thick to be considered safe for skating. As temperatures drop, the ice is expected to thicken quickly, bringing us closer to the season’s opening.
Last winter, the skateway was only open for 10 days, but this year, officials are hopeful it could be open for 30+ days, depending on weather conditions. With the cold snap helping the ice freeze, skating fans are eager for the chance to hit the canal.
The Rideau Canal Skateway is one of Ottawa’s top winter attractions, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Stay tuned for updates on when the ice will be thick enough to skate safely!
(Written by: Emma Butler)