Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, is famous for its picturesque winter landscapes. It’s known as a longstanding capital of winter fun, where locals truly appreciate the season.
Welcome to winter in Ottawa through the eyes of those who live here. This guide goes beyond the popular cold-weather activities in the city, like skating on the Rideau Canal Skateway and enjoying ice sculptures, to reveal everyday winter adventures that locals adore.
Minutes from downtown, outdoor activities abound—whether it’s tearing up the snow on fat bikes, cross-country skiing, or discovering how traditional maple syrup is made. Let’s explore what winter in Canada’s original winter wonderland is really like.
Discover the Greenbelt
Ottawa is encircled by 203.5 square kilometers (78.6 square miles) of pristine, protected Greenbelt, featuring wetlands, forests, and green spaces. In winter, this area transforms into a magical woodland covered in snow.
Explore Mer Bleue Bog, a remarkable 7,700-year-old scientific wonder. The boardwalk facilitates a close-up experience with a diverse range of wildlife, including rare spotted turtles and muskrats. Interpretive panels provide insights into the extraordinary northern boreal landscape. Trails remain accessible year-round, and adventurers can transition from the Dewberry trails— a beginner-friendly 1km (0.6 mile) path to various extended routes across the area.
Bring sunflower seeds while walking on Jack Pine Trail in Moodie Drive. Stand still with your hand extended, and you might be visited by friendly chickadees eager for a snack. This 1.5km (0.9 miles) trail can be enjoyed by cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and walkers alike throughout winter.
Skate on the Rideau Canal
Experience the magic of winter in Ottawa with a skate on the Rideau Canal Skateway—the world’s largest naturally frozen ice skating rink. As temperatures drop, the historic canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transforms into a local favorite for walking, cycling, and jogging. Glide along the 7.8km (4.8 miles) length, taking in stunning views, including the majestic Fairmont Château Laurier.
Weather permitting, the Skateway typically operates from January to March. Indulge in a BeaverTail pastry, a unique local delicacy, at the nearby ByWard Market following your skate.
In addition, Ottawa offers numerous other skating locations, such as The Rink of Dreams in front of City Hall, which is free to use and stunningly illuminated at night.
Stay Active This Winter
Frigid temperatures don’t deter Ottawans from enjoying the outdoors, and you shouldn’t let them either. Bundle up and engage in the many winter activities available. If you own snowshoes, venture out to any of the various trails that offer snowshoe routes throughout the winter months. A picturesque 1.9km (1.1 miles) trail at Bilberry Creek Ravine crosses a river and features lovely bridges. Check local sports shops for rental options if you need equipment.
For a prime cross-country skiing experience, explore the Kichi Sibi Winter Trail, a popular 16km (9.9 miles) trail perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and walkers in the heart of the city. This trail winds through lively neighborhoods, presenting ample opportunities to detour for refreshments or meals.
Fat biking is typically permitted on multi-use trails like the Kichi Sibi Winter Trail. Remember to yield to cross-country skiers and snowshoers while observing trail etiquette. The South March Highlands in Kanata is a great option to test your fat biking skills on numerous trails.
Taste the Sweetness of Winter
As winter winds down during late February and early March, when daytime temperatures begin to warm but nights remain chilly, it’s the ideal moment for the maple sap to start flowing. This season is perfect for visiting a sugar bush.
Head to Fulton’s Pancake House and Sugar Bush, among other locations not far from the city, to experience Canada’s sweet “liquid gold.” During this period, they create maple taffy poured directly on snow, offer insights into maple syrup production, and provide trails for delightful walks. This truly is a fantastic way to enjoy a winter day in Ottawa.
For more details about attractions, events, and winter activities, check out Ottawa Tourism online.
This article was initially published on December 18, 2020, and updated on November 24, 2021.
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This story was crafted in collaboration between Ottawa Tourism and Lonely Planet, with both parties contributing research and curated content.
