Winter is Fast Approaching—Three Ways to Enjoy the Chilly Season

It’s no secret that Ottawa can have some pretty long and harsh winters. With the snowy season fast approaching, it’s tempting to shut ourselves in, crank up the heat, and hibernate just like the groundhogs.

As much as we relish staying inside with a warm mug of cocoa, there’s a lot to love about the outdoors, even when it’s chilly! Since the frosty weather is so intertwined with Canada’s identity, it’s important not just to learn to tolerate the cold, but to embrace it. In this spirit, I put together a list of three of my favourite Ottawa activities that get you out of doors for the winter months.

Skating the Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is one of the most well-known and storied aspects of Ottawa, it’s even a UNESCO Heritage Site! Famously, during the winter, the canal freezes over and opens as the largest skateway in the world, stretching to over 7.8 kilometres of skateable terrain within the city.

As Carleton students, it’s especially easy for us to participate! The skateway runs directly by campus with an easy access point to drop in. It’s completely free of charge to skate, and equipment rentals and skate sharpening are available at three locations along the length of the canal (the closest to campus is the Dow’s Lake Pavillion).

The skateway is generally open for public use from January to March, but is weather dependent. For updates and more information, visit the National Capital Commission website.

Snowshoeing in Gatineau Park

Just across the river, Gatineau Park is one of the most popular destinations for outdoor activities in the National Capital Region. During the winter, the park provides a staggering 90 kilometres of snowshoe trails, with difficulties ranging from beginner-friendly to very challenging.

The park is accessible from Ottawa by using OC Transpo and STO public transit services (use your U-Pass on both!), or by car. There is a small fee to access the snowshoe trails, or you can borrow free passes from several libraries across Ottawa and Gatineau! Equipment can be rented from the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre.

Photo Hunting Around the City

As a photographer, I’m always on the lookout for beauty around the city. Luckily, during the winter months, there are unique opportunities to capture a different side of classic Ottawa attractions.

Some of my favourites include Hog’s Back Falls, which freezes in dramatic shapes in the cold, and the Dominion Arboretum, a great place to see hills and trees blanketed in snow. Even Carleton campus is great for winter photos! Stroll along the canal at sunset, or visit the academic quad during light snowfall for immaculate vibes.

More Resources

If you’re looking for more activities and events this winter, keep an eye out on the Carleton Student Experience Office (SEO) and the International Students Services Office (ISSO) websites for winter events exclusive to Carleton students!