Winter Activities

Skating at the Riley Family Duck Pond

CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

The Riley Family Duck Pond is located in the heart of Assiniboine Park. During the winter months, the Duck Pond becomes an outdoor skating rink and popular place to enjoy the wonders of winter. The Duck Pond is surrounded by beautiful light displays so you can enjoy skating under the stars.

The skating shelter adjacent to the Duck pond will be open daily from 7:00 am - 10:00 pm for washroom access and warm up.

Hockey sticks and pucks are not permitted on the duck pond. Please stay off the ice when plowing and flooding is underway.

NEW: The Winnipeg Trails Association is now offering a limited number of skate rentals near the duck pond shelter. The rental facility will be open Fridays from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 pm – 6:30 pm.

Cross-Country Ski Trails

CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

There are approximately four kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails in the Park on three designated loops. Trails are groomed for freestyle and classic skiing approximately twice a week, weather permitting. We do not groom the trails if it is snowing and will commence grooming when the snowfall stops. Trails are open 8:00 am to 10:00 pm during the ski season.

NEW enhancements and amenities for the 2024 season:

Equipment rentals – The Winnipeg Trails Association will offer ski equipment rentals and services at the Park. The rental facility is located near the Riley Family Duck Pond shelter. Services will include ski waxing, ski and kicksled rentals, and skate rentals (subject to availability). Hours of operation: Fridays: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Saturdays and Sundays: 12:00 pm – 6:30 pm. Click here for more information.
Ski racks at the Duck Pond and The Leaf – Skiers can take off their skis to visit Cargo Bar or the skating shelter at the Duck Pond, or pop into The Leaf to visit the biomes, access washroom facilities, or grab something to eat at the coffee bar or restaurant.
COMING SOON, new connection to the Bourkevale Community Club – When ice conditions permit, we will begin grooming a trail connecting skiers to the Bourkevale Community Centre’s network of trails along the Assiniboine River. The connection trail will be located near the Wellington Crescent entrance to the Park and open subject to ice conditions on the river.
New trail map and signage – In recognition of the Indigenous history of the land we now know as Assiniboine Park, each ski loop has been given a name in English and Ojibwe corresponding to local wildlife: 1) Eagle / Migizi loop, 2) Rabbit / Waabooz loop, and 3) Turkey / Mizise loop.

Ski Trail Etiquette

No walking, snowshoeing, or cycling.
No dogs allowed on groomed trails.
Do not use trails when conditions are too soft.
The trail is multi-directional. Be aware of oncoming trail users.
Be an ambassador for your sport!

Ski Trail Map

Toboggan Hill

CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

Located near the Riley Family Duck Pond and the Nature Playground, the Toboggan Hill is a favourite seasonal attraction for the young and the young at heart! The hill offers exciting thrills and spills for those who love the feel of wind (and snow) in their faces.

Bring your own toboggan
Slide with caution
Watch out for children and people walking
Be patient when the hill is busy
Most of all, have fun!

Cargo Bar

CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

Built from a 20' shipping container, Cargo Bar is a pop-up patio located on the banks of the Riley Family Duck Pond in Assiniboine Park. Gather around cozy fire pits on the licensed outdoor patio and enjoy a variety of hot and cold beverages including hot chocolate, coffee, cider, and a selection of local craft beers, wine, and specialty cocktails.

Hours of Operation: