This Skating Trail Near Ottawa Is An Ice Maze Through A Forest & Has Glowing Night Events

If you're looking for fun things to do in Ottawa this winter, there is a hidden ice maze near the city and it's opening soon.

The Éco-Odyssée nature park in Wakefield plans to open its labyrinth skating trail in mid-January* and you can glide through forests, fields and marshlands.

There will be themed evening skates on Thursdays and you can skate under glowing lights to different types of music. January 12 will be a jazz music night (if opened), for example, January 26 has a disco theme and on February 16 love songs will play, among other themes.

The full water maze is about five kilometres long and at least between two to three kilometres of that is open for winter skating.

You'll be able to fuel up with a variety of eats from the Snack Shack including hot dogs, chilli, pizzas and popcorn. Hot drinks like coffee and hot chocolate are also for sale to keep you warm. You can grab a bag of marshmallows to roast over a crackling fire.

Opening dates will be weather dependent but the ice trail plans to be open starting in mid-January and will be open Thursdays through Sundays until it closes in March. Tickets are $20 per adult and season passes are also available.

If you buy a skating ticket it also includes access to other winter activities like the snowshoe trail. The snowy winter trail is about 1.5 kilometres long through an enchanting black spruce forest.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

* This article has been updated.