The ongoing freezing temperatures caused by the Polar Vortex have frozen areas of Cootes Paradise Marsh, making it safe for skating.
Credit: Royal Botanical Gardens
Cootes Paradise, part of the Royal Botanical Gardens, a significant migratory bird stopover area since 1927, encompasses over 600 hectares, including a 320-hectare marsh, creeks, and an extensive shoreline.
Located at Princess Point, the marsh offers a designated skating area, with ice conditions regularly monitored and updated for safety.
Visitors must skate within 0.5 km of the ice access point to avoid disturbing wildlife. The minimum safe ice thickness for group skating activities is 4 inches (10 cm).
Credit: Royal Botanical Gardens
Skaters can check the current ice status via on-site signage, the Gardens’ website, or their Twitter account. However, visitors are advised to be cautious as weather conditions can rapidly change.
For those arriving by car, parking is available at 335 Longwood Road, Hamilton, with a $10 flat rate when staffed and regular metered fees at other times. RBG members enjoy free parking with a displayed pass.
Visitors are reminded to stay off thin ice areas, particularly near creek mouths and the Fishway, and to avoid the marsh banks to protect the habitat of nesting birds like Belted Kingfishers and Bank Swallows. The Gardens emphasize that all activities are at the visitor’s own risk, and they are not liable for any incidents.
Since the area is a natural space and not maintained for perfect skating conditions, visitors are encouraged to bring a shovel to clear snow or smooth the ice surface if needed. Activities like iceboating or sailing are prohibited to ensure the safety and preservation of the environment.