Ottawa, Canada (Rideau Canal Skateway)
My Skating Commute on the Rideau Canal
Ottawa's canal freezes into a skating rink 7.8 kilometres long, and some people skate to work on it. So I made a timetable.
The Rideau Canal Skateway has closed for the year. Its 56th season lasted 56 skating days, with more than a million visits. Some Ottawans skate along it to work, on 7.8 kilometres of frozen canal. I skated to work too, with a timetable.
My Timetable
7:00. Skates on. Practice in the hallway. Very fast on carpet.
7:20. Arrive at the canal. Step onto the ice. Hold the railing.
7:45. Let go of the railing. Hold the railing again.
8:10. Skate 100 metres. Wave at everyone. They wave back, mostly for balance.
8:30. Hot chocolate break. Every good commute needs a hot chocolate break.
9:00. Ask a skater which way is work. He asks where I work. Good question.
9:15. Remember that I work from home.
10:30. Arrive home. I’m late for work, which is in my kitchen.
The Season
This winter’s season had 56 skating days, and it was the 56th season. That can’t be a coincidence. I think it’s a sign that the canal wants me back.
Next winter, I’ll find an office at the other end of the canal, so the commute is worth it. I’ll also find a railing that goes the whole way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far does the skateway go?
7.8 kilometres, end to end. I've skated about 100 metres of it, very well, in both directions.
Did you fall?
No. I made several dramatic stops.