5 Amazingly Scenic Jogging Spots in Montreal | Opinion

Top 5 Montreal Running Routes

Jogging and running are wonderful activities.

It’s a great way to get your cardio in, the only equipment you really need is a good pair of shoes (though if you want, there is plenty of other equipment available) and it’s an opportunity to take in some amazing views and reconnect with the city, nature or just yourself!

Here are 5 of our favourite, most scenic running and jogging spots in Montreal:

1. Mount Royal

Mount Royal comes up a lot in our recommendations, but it really is a great place to go to be active in the city.

For jogging and running, Mount Royal’s mixed terrain offers a variety of challenges, from stairs to flat ground, steep climbs to relaxed ascents, flat paths to nature trails, there’s a lot to choose from for every level, and the view from the lookout is well worth the huffing and puffing.

2. Lachine Canal

The Lachine Canal is what’s known as a linear park, meaning… it’s a big long line. That makes it perfect for jogging and running!

The trail is a well maintained 14.5 km stretching along the Saint Lawrence river through some beautifully scenic and historic areas of the city, including the Atwater Market. In the summer, you can also rent kayaks and paddle boats to combine your run with a little boating!

3. The Botanical Gardens

If you’re into early morning runs, The Botanical Garden offers an Early Bird card for runners, joggers and walkers, giving you access to the gardens from 6:00 am to 9:00 am, every day.

Although the trail is short, there’s no topping the scenery, and it’s located right next to Maisonneuve park, where you can continue your run if you need a little extra trail. Or you can just keep doing the gorgeous garden loop.

4. Ile de la Visitation

Ile de la Visitation is a gorgeous nature park right next to the Papineau bridge with trails running through historic sites (including a historic windmill and apple press), wooded areas and along the water.

There are several kilometers of stunning trails on the island itself, and it connects up with the Gouin blvd bike path, so you can continue your run through the city, or combine your run with a bike ride.

5. Lachine Rapids

The bike path along the Lachine rapids is a runner’s dream. Starting in Verdun and ending in Lachine, the trail is over 20km long and follows the rapids and Lac St. Louis.

This gorgeous trail gives stunning views of nature as you jog along the waterside, with our beautiful city skyline beyond. It is a long trail, but well worth it!