Skating on the Rideau Canal is probably the best thing about winter in Ottawa. I mean where else can you skate on a historic UNESCO World Heritage Site canal through the centre of a city? Stretching 7.8km the Rideau Canal is the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink and my favourite thing about winter here in Ottawa. Even if you don’t like skating just walking along the canal and seeing everyone out is really fun. With the annual Winterlude festival on until February 18th there is even more to see and do around the canal. Despite the freezing weather and multiple snowstorms this winter the skating season has been great and hopefully it’ll be a long one! Below are some of my favourite spots along the canal.

View of downtown

View from under the Laurier Bridge

Skating around Patterson Creek

Patterson Creek

Happy Skating!