Arctic blast gives hope to Winnipeg's river skating trail
Digital Reporter
Thursday, January 14, 2016, 12:04 PM - While a prolonged stretch of frigid weather may leave some Manitobans shivering, site staff at Winnipeg's Red River Mutual Trail couldn't be happier.
The river trail that draws thousands of skaters each year was recently in jeopardy of not opening at all this winter. Usually opening in January with a zamboni-led parade, mild temperatures and open sections of water left the outdoor rink nowhere near ready for visitors just last week.
Things are looking up.
"Thursday afternoon's high of -16C in Winnipeg will be the warmest daytime high until NEXT Thursday," says The Weather Network's Chris Murphy. "Great news for RR skating trail prospects."
With the cold comes the ice! Progress being made on the @RRMTrail thanks to this hardworking crew! pic.twitter.com/NjfBsOdFKv
— The Forks (@TheForks) January 12, 2016
Crews started flooding sections of the river earlier this week in an effort to build up the ice for the annual river trail.
"Once the trail is complete to the bridge, crews will evaluate how thick the ice is in other parts and decide if the trail can be extended elsewhere," CBC reports.
Organizers say it could still be about a week until the trail is ready for skating.
It's happening!! Flooding the red for the skating trail. Hold on to your skates tho. 7-10 days b4 it's ready. #cbcmb pic.twitter.com/YfnPLW0Zh0
— Meagan Fiddler (@meaganfiddler) January 12, 2016
