Calling all runners! It’s time to relegate the treadmill back to clotheshorse status as grouchy ol’ Mother Nature has finally gotten over her tantrum and has blessed us with double digit temperatures once again. (I mean really, what was her problem?) Time to lace up, load up that iPod, and pound that sunny pavement like you’ve just emerged from an eternal hibernation… yeah, you’ve got this! Here are some perfect jogging routes to burn off any remnants of winter aggression…
The Beltline Trail
This extensive trail spans from Bayview and Danforth up to Allen Road and Eglinton and has lots of options for points of entry. The trail is marked, which is beneficial for newbies, and there are washrooms dotted along the way which are accessible during the summer meaning no need to rough it in a bush. Bonus.
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The Lakeshore
We are lucky to have a beautiful waterfront in Toronto, fully paved for your running enjoyment. Take advantage of the lake breeze as you get your sweat on and up the challenge by dodging all the bladers and bikers on a sunny weekend… extra points for not slowing down. Start at Lower Spadina and head westward past Exhibition place. You can run as far as Etobicoke if you so fancy or treat yourself to a rehydrating beverage at Sunnyside Café before you head back… you deserve it.
West End Rail Path
This stretch stands at just 2km right now, but there are plans to extend it further east which is to be a huge benefit for those who cycle downtown for work. But right now it is a pleasant spot to walk or to lap if you are training or working on increasing your endurance. The path begins at Cariboo Avenue and runs southeast to Dundas Street West and Sterling Road, although future plans will extend it east to Strachan and Wellington.
Leslie Street Spit
This 5km man-made headland runs from the bottom of Leslie Street all the way to Lake Ontario and is perfect to run away from the hectic city. It’s a nice destination point if you live further into the core and want to tack on some extra distance with a route down to the water.
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Centre Island
Take your run on an adventure! Get your stretches in on the ferry across and tear through those gates like you are Usain Bolt himself. Run down the avenue of the island until the lakeshore, then hang a left towards Ward Island to avoid any busy crowds. Enjoy the feeling of being away from the city, and when you are done exploring feel free to treat yourself to a beer while you wait for the next ferry to arrive… that’s runner’s tradition, right?
What are some of your favourite jogging routes in the city? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.
