Stories

There are few things more Canadian than enduring harsh winters, and few cities know this better than Winnipeg and its 750 000 residents. After all, it didn’t get the nickname Winterpeg for no reason. A city known for its freezing temperatures and heavy snowfalls has no shortage of awesome skating experiences. Winnipeggers and cold-ready tourists alike are well acquainted with the city’s many winter-experiences.

Some of the more famous examples include:

• the world’s largest snow maze (A Maze in Corn),

• Western Canada’s largest winter festival (Festival Du Voyageur)

• North America’s original free-standing ice climbing tower (Saint Boniface).

If you felt like something was missing from that list, you’re right! We would never forget about Canada’s most widely loved winter pastime: Skating. Just like the other winter activities there is no shortage of skating opportunities in and around the Peg! We even snuck in some off-ice skating locations as well! Keep reading to hear about all the exciting experiences skating can bring you in Winnipeg and greater Manitoba.

 

The Nestaweya Awaits 

Outside of Ottawa’s Rideau Canal, few skating trails are as widely used and cherished as the Nestaweya River Trail (formerly Centennial/Red River Mutual Trail). With nearly one million visitors annually, and an expansive trail up to 10km in length, it’s easy to see why it has such a good reputation. The Forks, which sits at the meeting of the Assiniboine and Red Rivers acts as the starting point for your Nestaweya skating experience. As you stride down the natural ice way you’ll see warming huts, Indigenous exhibits, city scenery, and much more. The only thing you’ll need is a pair of skates and whatever will keep you warm!

 

Details about Nestaweya River Trail:

Cost: No entry cost

Skate rentals: Available at The Forks Market

Location: 1 Forks Market Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4L9

Transportation: Paid parking available (2$ per hour), Winnipeg Transit.

 

Grab some rollers and head to Wheelies

Wheelies is the lone roller rink in the Winnipeg area. So, if you’re already an avid roller you’ve most likely heard about or spent some time at Wheelies. For those who aren’t, Wheelies’ family friendly environment is a perfect place to learn yourself or bring the kids for a fun afternoon. The laid-back, disco-style setting helps everyone channel their inner off-ice skater. We know Winnipeg is known for its winters, but not all skates have to be on ice!

 

Details about Wheelies:

Cost: Admission is 10$

Skate rentals: Available for $3

Location: 210 Enniskillen Ave, Winnipeg, MB R2V 0H5

Transportation: Parking available, accessible by transit.

 

Skip the City Skate at Riding Mountain National Park

Riding Mountain is about a 3hr drive from Downtown Winnipeg, making it a great opportunity for any Winnipeggers looking to escape for a weekend trip. The park has lots to offer in the winter including a skating trail through the townsite of Wasagaming and pond skating on Clear Lake. Tree-lined skating trails are the perfect backdrop for a family getaway, a romantic trip with your significant other, or a fun-packed trip with friends. Who wouldn’t like to strap on some skates, go for a long glide, and finish it off with a warm cup of hot cocoa?

 

Details about Riding Mountain N.P Skating:

Cost: Motor vehicle permit at Park Gate (youth are free, adults pay 8.50$)

Skate rentals: N/A

Location: 135 Wasagaming Dr, Onanole, MB R0J 1N0

Transportation: Transit N/A, accessible by motor vehicle only.

 

Kingfisher is the Trail of Dreams for any Roller Skater

Located under an hour outside of Winnipeg near the town of St. Andrews is Birds Hill Provincial Park. This park is an amazing spot to use up that good summer weather before the winter snows you in. The park contains Kingfisher Lakeview trail, a 5.8km paved loop trail that is great for a quiet skate amongst nature. The trail is perfect for beginners, as there aren’t many ups and downs, and the trail is always well maintained. The trail is also well known for its bird watching, so feel free to take a break from gliding and take in the views!

 

Details about Kingfisher Trail at Birds Hill Prov. Park

Cost: Free

Skate rentals: N/A

Location: Oakbank, MB R0E 0K0

Transportation: Motor vehicle accessible only.

 

 Skate in the Peg’s SouthEast with FortWhyte Alive

FortWhyte Alive is a massive urban park in the Southeast side of Winnipeg. Their skating trails and rinks are all made from natural ice that’s perfectly formed by the freezing Winnipeg winters. The city’s green space makes getting away from your normal routine quick and easy, and what better activity to do so with than skating? Keep your eyes peeled while skating because, much like Kingfisher trail, this green space is a popular spot for Winnipeg’s wildlife.

 

Details about FortWhyte Alive:

Cost: Adults: 10$ Day Pass. Children: 8$. Indigenous, Inuit & Metis: Free.

Skate Rentals: N/A

Location: 1961 McCreary Rd, Winnipeg, MB R3P 2K9

Transportation: Motor vehicle only, unless willing to walk 30 mins.

 

Skating at the Riley Family Duck Pond – Minus the Ducks

The Riley Family Duck Pond at Assiniboine Park transforms into a winter wonderland when the cold comes around. Light displays are present all around, making this skating experience good on your legs and your eyes!

 

Details about Assiniboine Park:

Cost: Free

Skate Rentals: N/A

Location: 55 Pavilion Crescent, Winnipeg, MB R3P 2N6

Transportation: Free Parking, Public Transit available

 

There are so many different adventures that become possible when one learns to skate. Wherever you are, whoever you’re with, whatever skill level you’re at; skating makes it easy to have fun while exercising. If learning a new skill sounds appealing to you or someone you know, be sure to check out our Canlan Sports Learn to Skate programs.

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