Are you looking to fully embrace and indulge in what the winter weather has to offer? Well, lucky for you, Ottawa is your go-to winter playground when it comes to finding activities to do that will satisfy your love of winter. There’s so much to do around this city; boredom isn’t an option. In fact, getting outside during those days of snow and ice is what we’re known for! But if you’re in search of some ideas for what to do this winter in Ottawa, here are a few of our personal favourites.
Winterlude
It’s one of the pinnacle winter celebrations that gets the entire city outside and excited about embracing the beauty our northern culture and climate. The snow, the hot chocolate, ice sculptures, sleigh rides, skating and so much more. It’s North America’s largest winter playground!
Skating on the Rink of Dreams
Although skating along the Rideau Canal usually tops the list of favourite things to do in Ottawa during the winter, with the unsteady temperatures now-a-days, that excitement can often be met with disappointment as the conditions make it slushy and even force it to remain closed. But luckily, the open air, Sens Rink of Dreams located by City Hall never disappoints since it remains refrigerated all winter long.
Ski Hills Around Ottawa
The Ottawa area is graced by many ski hills within close proximity to the city. Mount Pakenham, located west of Ottawa, is a great hill for beginners and fun for the whole family. Camp Fortune, located in Gatineau, only 25 minutes from the downtown core of Ottawa, is a great hill with a wide variety of trails for every skill level, whether skiing or snowboarding. Calabogie Peaks Resort is another popular hill, located about 1 hour west of Ottawa. Calabogie Peaks is a resort that offers condos for rent if you want to turn your trip into a fun family getaway.
Cross-Country Skiing in Gatineau Park
Staying active can be difficult as the winter weather arrives. But this city is lined with an abundance of snowy, magical trails along the Ottawa River. You can also head to Gatineau Park located only 20 minutes away, which provides the perfect opportunity to jump on the skis.
Ditch the winter blues and get outside to embrace that snow and ice that we love and cherish here in Ottawa. There’s a ton of activities to do in and around the city that can help you fire up some love for the season while having some fun and staying active.