Noah CôtéThe 8 best running trails in Montreal that will change your routine forever
As an avid runner in Montreal, I thought I’ve seen it all.
I’ve covered mile after mile in obscure off-beat paths and even set records in the city marathons— if competing against your friend counts as a marathon!
In the past months, I’ve searched far and wide to take my routine to the next level. And let me tell you—I’ve collected a pretty solid list of trails that really made my experience more fun, just a bit challenging, and more exciting than ever!
With this list, your next run is bound to be a blast, for sure.
1. Maisonneuve Park Loop
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Website: https://montreal.ca/lieux/parc-maisonneuve
Address: 4601 Sherbrooke St E
Contact details: +1 514-872-0311
Operating hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Level: Easy
Length: 3.2 km
Time to finish: 36 minutes
The trail is about three kilometers long, making it perfect for a quick run or a leisurely jog with a friend—even with kids in tow. There are plenty of places to stop, relax, and soak in the surroundings, which makes it a nice starter for beginners.
With easy access to the bike paths and a well-maintained landscape, it’s ideal for quick and casual runs.
Plus, it’s a wonderful spot to unwind, especially since it’s close to the Jardin Botanique. Once you’re done with your run, you can simply enjoy the fresh air in its wide, open spaces.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that the pedestrian and bike paths aren’t clearly marked. As a result, cyclists and runners sometimes get confused!
2. Beaver Lake Short Loop
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Website: https://montreal.ca/en/places/parc-du-mont-royal
Address: 1260 Chem. Remembrance
Contact details: +1 514-843-8240
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Level: Easy
Length: 1 km
Time to Finish: 11 minutes
This 1.0-km trail starts around Beaver Lake and then winds into the surrounding woods. It’s a quick and easy route, which makes it perfect for runners of all levels.
That said, I would recommend it more for beginners since it only takes about 11 minutes to complete.
The area has plenty of amenities, including picnic areas and clean restrooms. These features are perfect if you want to turn your run into a relaxing day out.
And if you want to add another layer to your outdoor experience, give birdwatching a try. This draws in other enthusiasts, so you’ll likely see them taking a lovely stroll.
Before you go, here’s a quick tip I learned the hard way: if you want to complete your run in the warmer months, make sure to bring bug spray!
For fur parents, remember to keep your fur babies leashed if you want them to tag along, in accordance with area rules.
3. The Little River Way
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Website: https://montreal.ca/lieux/parc-du-cours-du-fleuve
Address: 48 Cr du Fleuve, Verdun
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Level: Moderate
Length: 31.7 km
Time to finish: 5 hours and 43 minutes
One of the most scenic running trails in Montreal is The Little River Way which runs along the St. Lawrence River. This moderately challenging path is perfect for runners looking to enjoy a longer route while taking in the sights.
Despite being popular with birdwatchers and cyclists, runners can still find quiet moments, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. If you’re planning to visit the area, it’s best to visit between April and November when the weather is nice and not too hot.
The Little River Way ends at Récré-o-Parc, which is just the perfect spot to take a well-deserved break. Here, you can relax with a picnic, dip your feet in the water, or simply enjoy the view of the Lachine Rapids from a distance.
4. Pointe Aux Carrieres and Bizard island
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Website: https://montreal.ca/en/places/parc-nature-du-bois-de-lile-bizard
Address: L’Ile-Bizard, 2115 Chem. du Bord-du-Lac, L’Île-Bizard-Sainte-Geneviève
Contact details: +1 514-280-6778
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Level: Moderate
Length: 10 km
Time to finish: 1 hour and 52 minutes
The trail itself is relatively flat, making it accessible for runners of all levels. However, it can get muddy in the spring and early winter.
Despite its lack of elevation changes, the path still offers a lot of charm because of the views and landscapes.
It crosses over several picturesque ponds on footbridges, which makes it a great spot for birdwatching, particularly for herons that are present in the area. There are both wooded areas and exposed sections, so you can really absorb nature around you.
While the park’s easy-going trail is a major highlight, be prepared—restrooms are only available at the reception chalet.
Also, there are occasional mosquito swarms, especially during the warmer months, so bring bug spray with you!
5. Lachine Canal Promenade
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Website: https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/qc/canallachine/activ/sentiers-trails
Address: Prom. du Vieux-Port
Contact details: +1 514-283-6054
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Level: Easy
Length: 6.6 km
Time to finish: 1 hour and 10 minutes
As you run along this scenic path, you’ll pass by points of interest like outdoor sculptures, a lighthouse, and even a sailing school. Apart from these, the trail itself is dotted with drinking fountains, restrooms, and shady areas to catch your breath or take in the view.
It’s also a great place to cool off on hot summer days, with plenty of shady spots to rest and benches where you can take in the river views. You can choose not to finish the loop and instead complete a few kilometers before finding a nice spot for a picnic.
What’s more, the location itself is quite convenient. In fact, you’ll find ice cream shops, cafes, and even outdoor chess tables on the promenade.
So, if you want to try other outdoor activities, there are plenty you can explore.
6. Pavillon Trail
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Website: https://montreal.ca/en/places/parc-du-mont-royal
Address: 1260 Chem. Remembrance
Contact details: +1 514-843-8240
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Level: Moderate
Length: 5.6 km
Time to finish: 1 hour and 46 minutes
The Pavillon Trail is a well-maintained path that’s perfect for runners of all levels. That said, it’s worth noting that some sections might be tricky due to slight elevations.
On the plus side, its accessibility by public transit makes it a convenient choice for most adventurers.
One of the highlights of the Pavillon Trail is its versatility. Runners can explore different paths based on their preferences, whether it’s the busier main route or the more secluded offshoots.
There are also several viewpoints, including the popular Belvedere, where you can take a break and soak in the panoramic views of Montreal. If you can, don’t forget to bring a camera, especially when you’re running before sunset.
However, it’s important to note that trail closures can lead to detours. This is especially true during the colder months when the stairs become icy.
Therefore, checking trail conditions before heading out is the best move.
7. Maynard-Ferguson Park
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Website: https://montreal.ca/lieux/parc-maynard-ferguson
Address: 44 Claude Vivier, Verdun
Operating hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Level: Easy
Length: 5.8 km
Time to finish: 1 hour and 3 minutes
This easy and scenic route winds along the river, providing plenty of opportunities to take in the beautiful surroundings. Despite this, it still maintains that “city feel”.
In the warmer months, you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance of nature, with birds singing and even the occasional beaver sighting. During the winter, the park becomes a Nordic skiing and snowshoeing destination, so there’s always something new to experience.
The trail is mostly flat, making it accessible for runners of all levels. In addition, dogs are welcome as long as they’re on a leash.
For those driving to the trail, there are plenty of parking spaces near the entrance. Moreover, the side paths ensure it never feels crowded at all.
8. Parc la Fontaine to Sainte-Catherine
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Website: https://montreal.ca/lieux/parc-la-fontaine
Address: 3819 Av. Calixa-Lavallée
Operating hours: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Level: Moderate
Length: Up to 53.4 km
The trail from Parc La Fontaine to Sainte-Catherine is a runner’s dream. It offers at least a 25-km route with no cars in sight!
Even better, it features scenic highlights, including Ste-Hélène Island and the Champlain Bridge Pier. Runners seeking a moderately challenging experience will certainly find this stretch ideal.
Moreover, the paved sections ensure a smooth run. Meanwhile, occasional off-road parts like the beaver dam, add a bit of variety to the experience.
While some areas can get muddy during autumn, the foliage makes everything worthwhile. Feel free to bring your camera, slow down, and capture the stunning views.
Once you’re through with your run, you can enjoy the park to relax. It’s a spacious area with plenty of trees for shade and open spaces for picnics.
You can bring your nice dogs too, as long as they’re on a leash!
