Tis’ the season! It’s officially that time of year.
Yes, holidays are coming up but more importantly, ODR season is here. Canadians usually dread this time of year because the temperature loves to drop below zero. Although, you have to look at the positive side in everything. Freezing cold weather equals frozen lakes and ponds!
The only thing that gets Canadians through our unbelievably cold winters are outdoor rinks. There’s just something so much better about playing pick-up on an ODR than in an arena. The views are usually pretty great, especially if the snow is falling. Skating outside just makes us feel a certain type of way.Whether you’re going for a nice skate or playing shinny, outdoor rinks are a great way to spend your time in the winter.
Sharpen your skates, bundle up and check these out:
Lake Louise, Alberta
Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park. It’s famous for its turquoise blue lake in the summer, but just wait until you see it in the winter once it’s frozen over! This might be the ultimate ODR.
The Rideau Canal, Ottawa, Ontario
The Rideau is a 7.8-km long skateway that goes through the city of Ottawa. It holds the record for being the largest natural skating rink in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Roulston Lake, Plaster Rock, New Brunswick
There’s eight sheets of ice at this lake! Plaster Rock has an event every February called the World Pond Hockey Championship. 120 teams travel to this ODR from around the world to compete.
Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories
What’s better than using the northern lights for some night time shinny?
Abraham Lake, Clearwater County, Alberta
Just casually playing pick-up hockey with some breathtaking mountains in the back, the usual!
Lace up your skates, grab a stick and let’s play some puck!
Be safe and always check the weather and ice before having fun.
