The legendary Rideau Canal Skateway is finally complete. After a season of anticipation, the entire 7.8-kilometre stretch of ice will welcome skaters starting Monday morning at 8 a.m.
This year’s opening marks a significant shift from recent seasons. A 3.4-kilometre section first opened on New Year’s Eve – the earliest start since 2018 – and has gradually expanded, building excitement with each passing day.
By Monday, skaters will experience the full glory of the Skateway, gliding from Rideau to the library and enjoying access to the picturesque Dow’s Lake. The ice itself is reported to be in exceptional condition, with most sections receiving the highest possible “very good” rating.
Prepare for a bracing skate, however. Temperatures are expected to plummet to -23 C Sunday night, with Monday bringing snow and a high of -13 C. While snowfall will be modest, winds up to 15 km/h will create a significant wind chill, making it feel as cold as -28 C in the morning.
The Skateway’s history has been a tale of fluctuating fortunes. Last winter saw a partial opening on January 11th, with the full length accessible by January 18th, resulting in a remarkable 52 days of skating and over 1.1 million visitors.
This stands in stark contrast to the previous two years. In 2024, the Skateway was open for a mere 10 days, and in 2023, it remained closed entirely due to unsafe ice conditions. The current conditions promise a return to the Skateway’s celebrated past.
For those eager to embrace the winter wonderland, the Skateway’s full opening represents more than just a recreational opportunity; it’s a symbol of a thriving winter season and a beloved tradition restored.
