6 Enchanting skating trails around Ottawa to visit this winter
3 Minute Read
If you’ve ever wanted to glide through a dreamy winter wonderland, these trails will make you feel like you’ve skated into a fairy tale. You’ll be entranced by the snowy trees, starry skies and sparkling ice as you journey through the glittering woods.
Skating is loved by Canadians everywhere, and outdoor rinks are the lifeblood of this national hobby. Make sure to check when the trails open, as their operations are weather-dependent.
Want to experience this frosty fantasy for yourself? These six skating trails around Ottawa will place you under a wintery spell, welcoming you into a glimmering glacial paradise.
Icelynd Skating Trails
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Where: 6865 Fernbank Rd., Stittsville, ON
Located in Ottawa’s Stittsville suburb, Icelynd has over two kilometres of trails through wooded forest. The ice is open during the day, which is perfect for young families, or at night for older kids or a romantic date night under the stars. This trail is owned and operated by former Ottawa Senator Chris Neil and friends, so there’s an outdoor rink available for rental where groups can play hockey, skate and enjoy the outdoors.
RiverOak Skating Trail
Where: 2900 York’s Corner’s Rd., Ottawa, ON
As Ottawa’s biggest skating trail, RiverOak covers four acres of ice and 3.5 km of trails. You'll wind your way through fields, evergreens, orchards and sugarbush, enjoying the stark winter beauty. You can also stop in at one of the ODRs (outdoor rinks) along the trail to play hockey with other people in your community. Bring your stick to pass a puck back and forth as you skate.
When you’re feeling chilly, you can grab a hot chocolate and enjoy it by the fire or inside the heritage lodge.
Le Sentier du Petit Pingouin
Where: Club de golf Touraine, 312 Ch. Taché, Gatineau, QC
This trail, perfect for families, contains a whopping 5.5 km of ice through snow-blanketed fields. Children under five are free, and skate rentals are available, making it an easy way to get the kids out of the house. When you’re tired from skating, you can relax at the fire pit or grab a snack from the concession stand.
Keep an eye out for special events throughout the winter, like live music to serenade you while on the ice!
Countryside Adventures
Where: 16495 Sixth Rd., Moose Creek, ON
For outdoor winter expeditions, Countryside Adventures is your ultimate destination. Explore three kilometres of twisting icy trail through the woods, enjoying the beauty of the Canadian wilderness face-to-face. You can also snowshoe, tube and even meet the residents of the petting zoo. Dogs and strollers are allowed on the ice, making this the ideal activity for the whole family.
Patinage en Forêt
Where: 9 Montée Beausoleil, Lac-des-Loups, QC
Wander into a winter wonderland, nestled beneath trees laden with fresh snow. Patinage en forêt boasts six kilometres of smooth ice that will take you on an enchanting journey through a wintery paradise. You'll finish the day with rosy cheeks and eyes full of wonder after an amazing trip through this fantastical forest.
LV Four Seasons Trail
Where: 2 Henan Rd., Pembroke, ON
As you glide down this trail, the trees overhead will interlock to create a magical tunnel around you. What could be more beautiful than fresh white snow falling around you, dusting the branches and creating a picture-perfect winter scene? You can also skate the trail at night when lampposts and string lights will illuminate your way.
Bundle up with CAA
Ready to embark into an enchanted forest? Make sure you have winter gear before you go.
CAA Members can stay warm on the trails and save or earn CAA Dollars at partners, including Gear Up For Outdoors, Columbia Sportswear, Mountain Warehouse, Roots, and Altitude Sports. From jackets to scarves to snow boots, you’ll be ready for your next outdoor adventure.
Plus, Members can book our Mobile Ski & Skate Service to come to your home. The service includes blade sharpening, cleaning and dressing of both sides per pair for either figure or hockey skates.
