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The wondrous Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is one of the most beautiful sites to see in Canada. The canal is a UNESCO World Heritage site that stretches along a monumental 202 kilometers. Built in the early 19th century most of the original canal is operational with most of its original structures intact.

The canal’s lock gates and sluice valves are still operated by hand-powered winches every time. In winter, one of Canada's most beautiful seasons, the Canal freezes over to create the world’s largest natural skating rink, a sight to behold.
The Rideau Canal Skateway is maintained and operated by the National Capital Commission. This wondrous sight is open to skaters daily from January through to late February if the weather allows it and is free of charge, although donations supporting the Skateway's maintenance can be made at boxes at various entry points.
A favourite for locals and visiting tourists, the Skateway can often be seen densely populated with people skating at leisure. On beautiful winter days, skaters by the thousands fill the Canal. Worried you don’t have the right equipment to make the most of this gorgeous lake? Worry not. If you don't have skates, you can rent them here; you can also rent bright red sleighs and push those who can't skate themselves.
 

The Rideau Canal Skateway stretches over 7 kilometers from downtown Ottawa next to the National Arts Centre, south to Dow's Lake Pavilion. There are change huts and snack stations at various locations all along the Canal to ensure you never tire or go without a tasty bite of local cuisine.
When the cold Canadian nights hit, workers drill holes in the Canal ice and pump water onto the surface.
The first three weekends of February, the Canal is the focal point for Winterlude, the Capital's annual celebration of winter. An amusing fact you might not know: Many Ottawans who live near the Canal actually skate to work in winter. Free transport and exercise, there’s a winning combination!