Rideau Canal

Rideau Canal Skateway Rollercoaster: Open, Close, Repeat!

Find out why Ottawa's Rideau Canal Skateway keeps opening and closing in a dizzying dance with the weather!

The Rideau Canal Skateway in Ottawa has been on a rollercoaster ride of openings and closures recently. After finally opening for the first time since 2022, warm weather forced a temporary closure to protect the ice. The National Capital Commission decided to close the canal to prevent damage and preserve the ice amidst rising temperatures and the threat of rain. Just as skaters were lacing up their skates, the canal closed once again due to freezing rain and warmer weather.

Despite the anticipation and excitement, the Rideau Canal Skateway seems to have a love-hate relationship with Ottawa's weather. Fans of the iconic skating destination have been left disappointed as the canal opens and closes like a flickering light. The continuous cycle of opening and closing highlights the unpredictable nature of winter in Ottawa and the challenges of maintaining a safe skating surface.

In a city where winter sports are a way of life, the Rideau Canal Skateway plays a significant role in the community. Its closures due to weather conditions serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between enjoyment and safety on the ice. As residents eagerly await the next update on the canal's status, one thing is for certain – Ottawa's winter remains as unpredictable as ever!

As skaters eagerly wait for the Rideau Canal Skateway to reopen, the National Capital Commission continues to monitor the weather closely. The closure decisions aim to protect the ice and limit damage, ensuring that the skating season can resume smoothly. Despite the setbacks, the canal's resilience shines through, promising more icy adventures ahead for Ottawans.