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Active communities are healthy communities
Stay active even in the winter!
An active community is one of the hallmarks of a healthy community. Thanks to Dovercourt Recreation Association, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside, to be active and be a part of your community, even in challenging winter weather.
We want to bring about free opportunities to get outside and be active all winter long and help build an active and engaged community through recreation
Many of our neighbourhood communities host winter carnivals, usually with skating, tobogganing, or just meeting up with friends and neighbours around a seasonal fire pit to stay warm and cozy, enjoy sipping hot chocolate and rosy cheeks. Dovercourt’s annual winter carnival is held on the third Saturday of January.
Active commuting is an option if you dress properly for the conditions. One of the best options for a healthy commute is the Kichi Sibi (formerly SJAM) Winter Trail, a partnership between Dovercourt, the National Capital Commission, the City of Ottawa and our local business sponsors. Thanks to the initiative of community resident Dave Adams to bring our riverside parkland to life from December to April, the groomed multi-use winter trail along Sir John A. McDonald Parkway offers easy access to downtown and transit as well as opportunities for recreation and special events.
Check out this video of fat biking along the Kichi Sibi trail:
You can rent fat bikes and cross country skis from Fresh Air Experience. In addition to their store at 1291 Wellington Street, Fresh Air operates a rental station along the Kichi Sibi trail at Remic Rapids on weekends.
Read more about getting outdoors in the winter in this article, originally published in the Ottawa Citizen
Local parks and community outdoor rinks provide opportunities for skating and tobogganing as well, including the little hill at our own park (Westboro Kiwanis Park), and our volunteer-supported rinks. Come have a slide on the hill, a spin on the puddle, or play a game of pickup between the boards. Get the whole family out for some fresh air on weekends to remedy cabin fever!
Outdoor non-winter fun
In the milder months, it’s easier to get outside. Come to Dovercourt to enjoy our park, play structures, tennis courts, skateboard ramps, and wading pool —all available to the community at no charge. With its many options, Westboro Kiwanis Park is a hub for families.
