The temperatures may be dropping, but that doesn’t mean you have to shy away from enjoying the great outdoors.

A good coat, pair of boots, and other winter staples will get you more than ready to brave the cold for some well-worth-it outdoor activities Ottawa has to offer.

From winter sports to walking trails, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy winter in all its glory when you live or visit Ottawa this season.

Winter sports

Canada’s capital is home to some of the best winter sports spots you can find in the country. It’s not infamously dubbed the top winter destination in Canada for nothing, after all.

If you’re looking to lace up some skates and have fun on the ice, you can head to the famous Rideau Canal, the largest naturally frozen skateway according to the Guinness World Records. The 7.8 km rink takes you through the beauty of Ottawa’s downtown architecture down to the naturalistic scenery of Dows Lake.

If it’s not quite cold enough yet, you could also try out other outdoor rinks, including the Rink of Dreams, Lansdowne Skating Court, or Rideau Hall.

For other outdoor sports, such as snowing and skiing, you have your pick from several, including Edelweiss Valley, Mont Cascades, Ski Vorlage, or Camp Fortune.

Hiking and snowshoeing

If you’d rather take in the beauty of winter on foot, plenty of trails offer fun in the snow for you and your family or friends.

Gatineau Park, for example, is designed for hiking even in the winter, with weekly upkeep so that you can enjoy your trek safely. There are eight great trails to choose from in Gatineau Park.

The Greenbelt trails are another excellent option for winter hiking and snowshoeing. While many of the trails are specifically designed for cross-country skiing, the Jack Pine Trail, The Beaver and Chipmunk Trails, and the Mer Bleue Trails are all at your disposal.

If you like to stay within the city while you venture about, Princess Louise Falls offers breathtaking scenery within walking distance of a Starbucks, and the Mud Lake Trail is perfect for families with little children because it’s short, easy, and home to some adorable birds and animals.

Outdoor events and markets

Ottawa is home to some of the most exciting outdoor winter events, including Ottawa Winterlude, a festival featuring activities and sights such as a snow playground, ice sculptures, ice skating, and more.

The Byward Market, located in the heart of Ottawa, offers a rich experience with its historical backdrop and unique offerings, ranging from souvenirs to delicious foods.

To top it all off, you can attend the Ice Dragon Boat Festival during Winterlude, which begins in February. The festival features free concerts and an exhilarating ice boat race.

There is no shortage of things to do this winter in Ottawa. The only problem you’ll have is fitting them all in so you can enjoy everything the winter wonderland city has to offer this season.