Updated: January 21, 2021 for a total of 9 spots!
Whether you’re an early morning speed skater or you love to leisurely spin under the stars, we’ve got a long list of ice for you to glide over.
The Forks | Trails and Rink
Winnipeg’s most popular tourist destination, The Forks is home to a record-setting river trail that starts at the heart of the city and has once run as far as 10km outward. Currently, you can skate down the Assiniboine River past the Osborne Bridge and to the Hugo Street docks.
This year, the Centennial River Trail - named in honour of sponsor The Winnipeg Foundation, which is celebrating 100 years - has doubled in width to help promote safe physical distancing while on the ice. Conditions are updated daily, and areas may be added or decreased as ice condition changes throughout the year.
Off the river in Arctic Glacier Park you can enjoy land trails across the rail bridge, the rink under the canopy and the the CN Stage Rink, where you can play hockey under the WINNIPEG sign. At night, this whole skating scene is particularly enchanting, as you'll find yourself skating under a galaxy of lights hung from trees over the trails.
Assiniboine Park | Riley Family Duck Pond and River Trail
Located in the middle of the Assiniboine Park, this large duck pond is the perfect place to glide smoothly across the ice during the day or in the evening under the stars. Surrounded by twinkling light displays, there’s also plenty of benches and picnic tables to rest at between laps while the backdrop off the Qualico Family Centre and The Pavilion are great for the Gram.
If you're skipping skating circles, head to the Portage Avenue entrance of the park and glide across the lengthy Assiniboine river trail.
St. Vital Park | Duck Pond
This massive duck pond in St. Vital is primetime for skating figure eights around the curves of the island in the centre of the ice. Once you’ve done more than a few laps, grab your sled and head over to the icy "Manitoboggan.” This international award-winning structure includes two toboggan slides, an accessibility ramp and a treetop lookout!
La Barriere Park | River Trail
Just a few minutes south of Winnipeg is La Barriere Park, an outdoor explorer’s paradise along the banks of the La Salle River. When conditions permit, a large volunteer-made skating trail surrounds the foot-bridge.
After your skate, strap on a pair of skis and hit the trails, or try your hand at winter disc golf on the 18-hole course within the park.
Kildonan Park | Duck Pond
Glide underneath Takashi Iwasaki’s bright colourful lights on this illuminated duck pond. This large pond is one of our favourite places to lace up (and toboggan!) as this scenic park brings all the beauty day or night.
Susan Auch Speed Skating Oval | Rink
Speed skaters can once again feel the wind through their hair! The Susan Auch oval is an extra smooth surface located outside the Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex. While there are numerous hours offered here for public skating, those with a need for speed can enjoy the daily timeslots located for speed skaters only to practice their skills. Please read the full list of rules and protocols before visiting!
Harbour View Recreation Complex | Pond
Located within Kilcona Park, this manicured skating rink is surrounded by plenty of walking pathways, a picturesque frozen lake, and cross-country ski trails. It's like the dictionary definition of a winter oasis.
Bunn's Creek Centennial Park | Rink
Bunn’s Creek Centennial Park is a hidden gem located in North Kildonan offering a large, well-lit rectangular rink, a slick toboggan slide, abundant wildlife and numerous walking paths. It’s the perfect place to skate while the sun sets.
Roblin Park Community Centre | Trail and Bookable Rink
This Charleswood community centre has created a large outdoor skating loop that can be enjoyed by everyone, while the outdoor rink beside it can be booked in advance for 50-minute time slots.