Winnipeg 
As the winter season descends upon Assiniboine Park, a magical transformation takes place, turning this beautiful park into a wonderland of winter activities. One of the most beloved winter pastimes here is skating at the Riley Family Duck Pond, an experience that promises to delight visitors of all ages.
Riley Family Duck Pond; Assiniboine Park & Zoo
Nestled in the heart of Assiniboine Park, the Riley Family Duck Pond takes on a new identity during the winter months. What was once a serene water feature now becomes an enchanting outdoor skating rink, inviting locals and tourists alike to lace up their skates and glide across its frozen surface. The Duck Pond‘s charm is further enhanced by the soft glow of beautiful light displays, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
For those seeking a warm respite, the adjacent skating shelter is open daily from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm. There are washroom facilities as well as a cozy spot to thaw out after skating on the ice. Keep in mind that hockey sticks and pucks are off-limits here, and be sure to steer clear of the ice during plowing and flooding operations for your safety.
Also located beside the Riley Family Duck Pond is the Cargo Bar’s outdoor pop-up patio. Here, you can huddle around warm fire pits while savoring a delightful selection of hot chocolate, coffee, cider, local craft beers, wine, and specialty cocktails. The Cargo Bar’s cozy atmosphere is perfect for those chilly evenings, providing a charming winter escape for park-goers. The Cargo Bar is open daily from December 26 to January 4, & 9 – 1 from 12 pm to 6 pm.
Cargo Bar; Assiniboine Park & Zoo
Adjacent to the Duck Pond, there’s another winter gem waiting to be discovered—the Toboggan Hill. This attraction offers an exhilarating experience for both young and young-at-heart individuals. Bring your own toboggan and get ready for an adrenaline rush as you hurtle down the snow-covered slopes. It’s an adventure that’s sure to fill your heart with joy, especially when shared with family and friends.
Toboggan Hill; Assiniboine Park & Zoo
For those seeking a more tranquil winter experience, Assiniboine Park also offers groomed cross-country ski trails (ski trail Map) that wind their way through the serene winter landscape. While these trails may not be open year-round, they are a true treasure for enthusiasts looking to explore the park’s beauty differently.
The cross-country ski trails at Assiniboine Park are typically groomed twice a week during winter, weather permitting. Grooming efforts are paused during snowfall and resumed once the snowfall subsides. This ensures that skiers can enjoy well-maintained trails for an optimal skiing experience. Trails are open from 8 am to 10 pm during the ski season. Live trail grooming updates can be found here.
While on the trails, it’s important to observe ski trail etiquette. Stay true to the designated activity by refraining from walking, snowshoeing, or cycling on the groomed paths. Additionally, please leave your furry friends at home, as dogs are not allowed on the trails. To preserve the quality of the trails, avoid using them when conditions are too soft, as it can damage the groomed surface. Lastly, always be mindful of other trail users and be a courteous ambassador for your chosen winter sport.
Equipment rentals will be available at the Winnipeg Trails Association’s Zoopigon pop-up shop, located by the Riley Family Duck Pond. Cross-country skis, kicksleds, and ice skates suitable for all ages will be available. They will also offer ski waxing services and lessons. Rentals are by donation, on a first-come, first-served basis, and subject to availability.
What’s new this season
- Saturday Guided Snowshoe Experience – Explore Assiniboine Park’s winter wonderland on a guided snowshoe adventure. Led by the Park Conservancy’s Education and Programming team, these 90-minute tours explore themes like birdwatching, winter trees, and animal tracking. Each session starts at 10:00 am near the Riley Family Duck Pond Shelter. If snow conditions change, hikes will replace snowshoeing for safety. The sessions run every Saturday, from January 10th to February 28th at 10:00 am near the Riley Family Duck Pond Shelter and are priced at $15 per person (+GST). Members receive a 10% discount.
In Assiniboine Park, winter brings forth a world of enchantment and outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer the grace of skating under the stars, the thrill of tobogganing down snow-covered slopes, or the serenity of cross-country skiing through a winter wonderland, this beloved park has something for everyone. So, bundle up, embrace the frosty air, and create lasting memories as you explore the winter wonderland of Assiniboine Park.
