Entire length of Rideau Canal Skateway to open Tuesday

Skaters in Ottawa's downtown area will have access to all 7.8 km of Rideau Canal Skateway, starting Tuesday morning.

The National Capital Commission (NCC) says, as of 8 a.m., February 2, the skateway will be open from downtown (Rideau) to the Hartwells Locks. Residents will also now have access to 30 staircases and five universal access ramps leading to the skateway. 

The NCC is suggesting that residents across the region only access its assets closest to their home, within their province of residence. This suggestion is an effort to align with the public health directives related to exercising locally and avoiding non-essential travel.

“While the current situation is disappointing for all of us, dispersing use throughout our winter activity network during the current state of emergency is our best chance to ensure that our assets can be used safely and remain open,” says the NCC, Monday.

To date, all NCC assets remain accessible to the public, provided that users follow public health directives, as well as NCC preventative measures, at all times. 

These measures include the following:

• Stay at least two metres (six feet) apart from those outside your household.
• Wear a mask or face covering.
• Wash your hands, and use the on-site hand sanitizer.
• Respect the capacity limits posted in the washroom facilities.
• Carry your belongings with you, as there is no access to changing facilities or cubbies. 

For more information on skateway ice conditions, click here.