Picturesque 'patinage': Skating through a forest trail a safe and unique experience
CTV
A unique and serene adventure awaits just north of the capital region, where the only sounds to hear are skates scraping on the ice—and the occasional bird call—while gliding across a three-kilometre ice trail in the bush.
The enchanting and peaceful Patinage en Forêt, in Lac-Des-Loups, Que., located about 45 minutes from downtown Ottawa, offers a quintessential Canadian winter pastime, skating, through a dense landscape of spruce and balsam trees.
Ten-year-old Levi McGibney, along with his parents, siblings and cousins, arrived early and have all been skating their way down the twisting trails for most of the afternoon.
“It’s really cool. I like it,” says McGibney. “Doing the big loop is really fun because you can race a little bit.”
Skates and sleds are available for rent, and at the entrance to the ice-trail, the rustic wood chalet offers a place to lace-up or warm-up. Snacks are also available, but COVID-19 restrictions require food to stay outside. There are plenty of benches and bonfires to keep warm, and while you’re taking a skate-break, don’t forget to say hello to their mascot, and a favourite with kids, ‘Loupie’ the wolf.
