5 Best outdoor skating trails outside Halton
Published January 10, 2020 at 4:01 pm
Now that winter is in full swing, you might want to try and take advantage of the colder weather ahead by enjoying some of the pristine skating trails Ontario has to offer.
These are the top 5 outdoor skating trails outside Halton.
If you’ve ever wanted to test your abilities as a speed skater, you’ll want to visit the Ontario Speed Skating Oval in Lakefield Ontario.
The Oval is a 400-metre track that offers public skating sessions, club practices, sessions for school groups, as well as special events.
Most days, the Oval is open from noon until dark, but those interested in checking out the full schedule can do so here.
Photo courtesy of the Ontario Speed Skating Oval’s website
4: Peterborough Lift Lock canal
Those looking for a rink offering activities and an ambient backdrop should check out the rink at Peterborough’s Lift Lock canal.
Several different activities are permitted on the canal, including hockey. However, skaters are encouraged to obey the canal’s safety flags–green means skating is permitted, while red means it is not.
Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough’s Twitter
3: Arrowhead Provincial Park ice skating trail
The ice skating trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park is one of the most renowned in the province.
Skaters can traverse through the trail and enjoy the scenery, as well as several planned activities throughout the season–the Fire & Ice nights are some of the most popular.
The 1.3 km trail was named one of the Top 50 Canadian Winter Experiences by Flight Network, and one of 19 Stunning Natural Ice Skating Rinks Around the World by Travel+Leisure.
Photo courtesy of Arrowhead Provincial Park’s Twitter
During the winter, the Bentway underneath the Gardiner Expressway becomes a skating rink like no other.
The 220-metre trail is open seven days a week from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Those who don’t have their own skates can rent them for $10 for adults, and $5 for kids (ages 12 and under).
Finally, after braving the chilly weather, skaters can warm up with a drink at the Corona Après Patio, which is open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays.
Photo courtesy of The Bentway’s website
Those who consider themselves avid skaters have to visit the Rideau Canal located in the nation’s capital.
The 202 km trail is one of the longest skating rinks in the world. Additionally, the canal runs from the city’s downtown core to Dows Lake, meaning skaters can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city while they skate.
Best of all, skaters can warm up after they finish with a Beavertail and a warm drink.
Photo courtesy of @pduvs Instagram
Cover photo courtesy of @ty_vantran ‘s Instagram
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