June 8, 2021 Six Beautiful Locations for Jogging and Working Out in Quebec
La belle province is a haven for outdoor activities. With kilometres of pristine forests, lakes, rivers, and mountains, there is literally something for everyone. But for many of us, getting out of the city isn’t always an option. Luckily, there are plenty of parks and trails right in the heart of Quebec’s cities, offering the perfect setting to burn off energy (and calories)! Read on and discover six beautiful urban locations to jog or workout.
1. The Lachine Canal, Montréal
Distance: 14.5 km multi-use trail
For a long, flat run, the historic Lachine Canal is ideal. This 14.5-kilometre linear park follows one of Canada’s oldest waterways from the Bonaventure Expressway west to Lachine’s Parc René-Lévesque (a must visit at sunset). With numerous access points throughout the city, you can easily choose your route and distance. You can walk, cycle, rollerblade, or run. The path takes you by bustling neighbourhoods, the famous Atwater Market and various landmarks. And there are plenty of green spaces and picnic areas to take a breather and enjoy the sights and sounds. Furthermore, the TREKFIT station and calisthenics park at the Viaduc Bonaventure – Bassin Peel mean you can get even more out of your workout. Great for new runners and marathoners alike, this is a true gem right in the heart of the city.
2. Plains of Abraham, Québec City
Distance: a 1.4-km running track and network of paved and gravelled paths
Why not mix in a little history in with your workout? The site of many clashes between the French and British, the Plains of Abraham are a popular tourist attraction. But the park is also an all-season playground for locals. With its majestic trees and views of the Saint-Lawrence River, this is an ideal setting for a workout. There are several paths crisscrossing the site. Joggers can run the 1.4-kilometre loop around the playing field or hit the asphalt roads and green spaces. The park is about 2 kilometres from one end to the other, but you can easily extend your workout. For example, you can run to the Citadel to add some hills. Or ramp up your cardio with the Escalier du Cap-Blanc and its 398 stairs! Furthermore, runners can continue on to the Promenade Samuel de Champlain, the Parc du Bois-de-Coulonge, or the TREKFIT station at Collège de Mérici.
3. Parc Portuaire, Trois-Rivières
Distance: 3 km, 7.5 km, and 10 km
This harbour-front park in Trois-Rivières provides joggers and runners with stunning views of the Saint-Lawrence River, the port, and the Laviolette Bridge. The asphalt path leads runners along the water where they can take in numerous works of public art, including stained glass windows created by artist Jean Beaulieu and his team. This is a lively setting for your run with plenty to see and do. Visit the Trois-Rivières tourism website for their 3-kilometre, 7.5-kilometre, and 10-kilometre recommended routes.
4. Parc Lucien-Blanchard, Sherbrooke
Distance: 6+ km of wooded trails
Photo: ©Entrée Libre. All rights reserved.
A real hub of outdoor activity, Parc Lucien-Blanchard in Sherbrooke is a stunning riverfront park. In addition to its beach, two volleyball courts, and picnic areas, the park has a network of wooded trails. Located on the southern shore of the Magog River, these trails are open to hikers, walkers, and runners. Furthermore, you can connect to the north shore by taking the Martin-Pêcheur walkway over the river. This will extend your run to 15 km.
5. Parc des Ormes, Gatineau – TREKFIT station
Photo: ©Radio-Canada / Christian Milette. All rights reserved.
Located in the Hull sector of Gatineau, Parc des Ormes recently went through a serious “fitness” makeover. The city received a $100,000 grant to create an outdoor “health circuit” for the community. While all citizens are encouraged to use the new TREKFIT station, the main objective was to promote an active lifestyle with its 50+ population. This fitness station features pull-up bars, push-up bars, parallel bars, and a long bench. Moreover, when the new equipment was installed in 2019, a kinesiologist was on site one day a week to show people how to use it.
6. Parc de la Baie, Gatineau
Distance: 5-km loop
Photo: ©Le Droit. All rights reserved.
If you are looking to get away from the crowds running on Parliament Hill and in Laurier Park, Parc de la Baie in Gatineau is a good bet. Here you can work out in a truly peaceful setting with very little traffic. The 5-kilometre loop takes you through the park and on to the shores of the sparkling Ottawa River. But beware, there is very little shade so make sure you bring your sunglasses and a hat. And plan to head out early morning or late evenings in the summer if you wish to avoid periods of intense heat.
Bonus: Mount Royal, Montréal
Distance: various
No list would be complete without a special shout out to Montréal’s Mount Royal. Affectionately known as the “Mountain” by locals, Mount Royal is a stunning park that overlooks the city. This iconic running destination offers various routes for all levels. Beginners can circle around Beaver Lake and along the various wooded trails. While more experienced runners may be up to tackling the thigh-burning Olmstead Stairs. Other popular routes include the 6-kilometre summit route up to the cross, or the “up and over” for those looking for a real challenge. Expect crowds and full parking lots on the weekends.
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