About 27,000 runners participated in either the Montreal Marathon or the Montreal Half this September, showcasing the city’s passion for running. I ran cross-country and distance track in high school, and when I arrived in Montreal, I was thrilled to discover that the city is a paradise for running enthusiasts; it’s a city where early mornings will see the late-night partiers crossing paths with the early-morning runners. Montreal’s thriving running culture is supported by local athletic stores and brands (like Ciele), its fun and inclusive run clubs, and all of the many running routes it offers. Here are some of my personal favourite routes that are great for any Montreal runner.

Mont Royal

Let’s start with the elephant in the room—the fact that there is an entire mountain resting right in the middle of our city makes for several running route options. Mont Royal is covered in miles of trails of varying steepness, and a run to the summit is rewarded with stunning views of the city skyline. Mont Royal’s trails offer Montrealers a nature-based refuge from city life, making them a peaceful and pleasant place to run. It also features Beaver Lake, which has a running and walking path around its perimeter.

Straight shot along Sherbrooke or de Maisonneuve

This one is controversial—I know many people who are repulsed at the thought of running on such a busy street where onlookers could watch their every move, but I personally love the feeling of running through a busy urban area. There is  an abundance of energy around you, and so much to watch and distract yourself with while you run. If you mistime your run and the sun starts to set, there is little risk of being in a dark and isolated area. The frequent crosswalks across busy streets with stop lights also offer beginner runners some breaks. While either direction is enjoyable, I prefer going southwest because it is a gradual uphill on the way out and then a gradual downhill on the way back. As you approach Westmount when running southwest from McGill’s campus, occupy your mind by taking a look at all of the multi-million dollar houses and cute shops scattered throughout the neighbourhood. 

Through the Plateau to Parc La Fontaine

Mont Royal isn’t the only greenspace that is an attractive backdrop for a run; running through Parc La Fontaine and the areas surrounding it is part of my favourite five-kilometre route. It is a great option for people like myself who prefer flatter running routes, and it’s both beautiful and lively. People are always out walking their dogs, playing sports, having picnics, and, of course, running. The park features walking paths and a pond surrounded by a perfect running path. Although it is significantly smaller than Mont Royal, incorporating some of the charming surrounding Plateau streets into your route will enhance the running experience. I particularly recommend doing this route during golden hour, as the tree leaves and the ripples of the pond become illuminated in the most stunning way.

Along the Lachine Canal

Running southeast from McGill’s campus will eventually bring you to the Lachine Canal, which is neighboured by both a bike path and a running trail. From my experience, running by a body of water makes for a more peaceful run. The route will also take you through neighbourhoods outside the typical McGill bubble like Griffintown, Little Burgundy, and St. Henri. Along this route you will also pass Atwater Market—the perfect spot for a mid- or post-run treat.

Bonus: a route to avoid

Straight shot along St. Catherine

The great thing about running along Sherbrooke or Maisonneuve is that you get the city feel while still having room to move around and weave through people. This is not the case with St. Catherine, at least not the part that aligns with McGill’s campus. The few times I made the mistake of running here, I often found myself walking because there was no safe way to pass through the bustling crowds of people. All-in-all, it makes for a frustrating experience and an abhorrent elapsed running time.