Running is excellent exercise and a great way to stay healthy.
If you're looking into running to get fit or as a new hobby, Edmonton has a wonderful trail system that is perfect for runners.
The many paved trails throughout the city are well kept, offering optimal running surfaces all year. During the spring, summer, and fall, the trails are swept to remove sand, salt, and other debris, and during the winter, the paths are cleared when accumulation reaches at least one inch.
Here's a few of our favourite running trails:
University of Alberta
A great starter trail as it's a short 3.2 km loop around the perimeter of the campus. This run takes you along the streets surrounding the campus, and it's easy to extend your run by exploring the inner streets and campus paths. Residents living in Garneau and Strathcona are just minutes away, but you can drive there from across the city and park via permit or take the bus and get off at 87 Avenue.
Riverside
It's no secret that Riverside is a beautiful area, and running along the trails here makes for a great experience. Start at Dawson Park and follow the trail along the riverside. Cross at the Rowland Road bridge and follow Rowland to the bend. Take the trail leading to Wayne Gretzky Drive and across the river. You'll join the trail again through Kinnaird Park for a near 6 km loop.
Forest Heights and Dawson Park
The Forest Heights Park trails will lead you down to Henrietta Muir Edwards Park, the Muttart Conservatory grounds, and if you cross the Connors Road Bridge you can follow park trails along the river back up to Dawson Park for up to a 6 km run.
Edmonton is full of amazing trails and if you incorporate some of the city sidewalks, you can find a great run no matter what part of the city you live in! For other Edmonton trail suggestions, try Great Runs.
Remember that when running during the winter in Edmonton, you can experience temperatures dipping below -25 degrees, so it's important to dress appropriately. Use synthetic and polyester layers and don't forget a hat and a good pair of gloves! Ice grips are a great addition to your running gear if you plan on using nature trails over paved trails.