Ottawa 
The Township of Laurentian Valley offers a perfect winter day-trip destination for all in Eastern Ontario: its outdoor skating trail.
Credit: Township of Laurentian Valley
The 1.5 km-long skating trail is now open for outdoor public skating.
The natural ice skating trail that winds through the forest beside the Alice & Fraser Recreation Centre was first created in 2017. The following year, the volunteers expanded the offerings by adding a 2km snowshoe path along the trail.
Strollers are allowed on the trail, making it a perfect trip for young families.
The trail is free to use, though donations are appreciated. It is open daily, depending on the weather, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. On select nights, you can enjoy night skating under twinkling lights that adorn the path.
If you are visiting Laurentian Valley to explore its trails, then be sure to check out other winter activities in the township.
Feeling hungry after all the fun? The township boasts two local craft breweries – Square Timber Brewing Company and Two Hawks Brewing Co., and a few restaurants serving delicious fare.
Renfrew County also offers plenty of winter fun – from the famous Calabogie Peaks Resort to the fabulous cross-country trails spread across the county.
Laurentian Valley Skating Trail
Credit: Township of Laurentian Valley
What: 1.5 km natural ice Skating Trail through a wooded, forested area.
When: Winter Season, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily – weather dependent. Check status online
2025-26 season: Opens on December 31, 2025
New Year’s Eve Night Skate/Snowshoe: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
New Year’s Day Skate/Snowshoe: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Once open:
Regular winter schedule starts January 2, 2026
- Daily: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Saturday: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
During night skating days:
- Thursday: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Saturdays: 6:00 pm – 9:00pm
Where: 2 Henan Road, Pembroke
How Much: Free, donations appreciated.
