The best running trails around Ontario

Ontario offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 50 trails available for exploration. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy urban paths to more challenging wilderness trails.

Yes, Ontario has several running routes perfect for beginners. There are 7 easy routes, such as the Running loop from Central Parking, which is a pleasant 2.3-mile (3.7 km) trail designed for an enjoyable urban running experience.

Ontario's running trails traverse incredibly diverse landscapes. You can experience the rugged wilderness of the Canadian Shield, run along the vast shorelines of the Great Lakes, explore extensive mixed forests, or enjoy picturesque urban waterfronts. The province also features geological formations like the Niagara Escarpment, offering varied and scenic backdrops for your run.

For those seeking longer runs, Ontario provides several options. The Route 66 cycle path loop from Montclair is a challenging 18.3-mile (29.4 km) trail that takes about 3 hours to complete, leading through varied urban landscapes. Another option is the Route 66 cycle path loop from Red Hill, spanning 9.8 miles (15.8 km).

The running routes in Ontario are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, from scenic urban paths to immersive natural environments, and the variety of options available for different ability levels.

Absolutely. Many routes in Ontario offer stunning natural sights. For instance, the Route 66 cycle path loop from Cable Airport provides scenic views along its paved surface. Beyond specific routes, the region itself is known for its connection to the Great Lakes, numerous waterfalls (like those in Hamilton, the 'Waterfall Capital of the World'), and vast forests that are particularly vibrant in the fall.

Yes, major cities in Ontario offer excellent jogging options. Toronto boasts the Waterfront Trail, the Martin Goodman Trail (a 56-kilometer path along the shoreline), and High Park with its scenic dirt paths. London, Ontario, features over 30 km of trails along the Thames River, providing a linear park experience with multi-use paths.

Many running routes in Ontario are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your run at the same point. Examples include the Running loop from Central Parking, the Route 66 cycle path loop from Cable Airport, and the Running loop from Upland.

Ontario's provincial parks offer exceptional trail running experiences. Algonquin Provincial Park provides rugged wilderness trails, while Sleeping Giant Provincial Park near Thunder Bay is known for diverse options from challenging ascents to leisurely cruises. Lake Superior Provincial Park offers trails like the Peat Mountain Trail and the Coastal Hiking Trail, and Bruce Peninsula National Park features trails amidst dramatic lakeside cliffs and old-growth forests.

Yes, Ontario's running network includes routes for all skill levels. There are 7 easy routes, 36 moderate routes, and 7 difficult routes, ensuring that both casual joggers and experienced trail runners can find a suitable challenge.

The duration of running routes in Ontario varies significantly depending on the distance and difficulty. For example, an easy route like the Running loop from Central Parking takes about 23 minutes, while a moderate route like the Running loop from Upland can take around 1 hour and 25 minutes. Longer, more difficult trails can extend to several hours.

Yes, Ontario has trails with unique characteristics. The Beltline Trail in Toronto, for instance, is a 9km recreational path converted from an old railway line, offering a distinct urban running experience. Additionally, some routes might intersect with or run parallel to parts of the historic Route 66 cycle path, providing a blend of natural and cultural interest.