Street View Skates through the Nation’s Capital

No toques, mittens or warming huts required!

Just in time for Ottawa’s Winterlude Festival, Canadians and people from around the world can now take a virtual skate along the entire 7.8 kilometers of the frozen Rideau Canal Skateway.

Last year, with the help of the NHL’s Cody Ceci, the Google Maps team laced up its skates and collected Street View imagery of the skateway -- the world’s largest skating rink which is managed and maintained by the National Capital Commission.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, there’s plenty to explore along the skateway in Google Maps. From Dow’s Lake all the way to the base of Parliament Hill, you’ll pass commuters skating to work and iconic ‘Beavertail’ stands selling fresh pastries.

Oh, and as you enjoy a leisurely glide down this frozen icon of Canadian culture, keep an eye out for a couple of furry oversized Ottawa locals, eager to cheer you on your way!