2 of the Best Jogging Routes in Montreal

By: Annie Ye

As the snow slowly melts from sight and the long Easter weekend comes to an end, it’s safe to say that spring is upon us. After what seemed like an endless winter with record amounts of snow, we can finally head outdoors and not have to brace ourselves for the shockingly cold air that numbs our entire bodies. It’s officially time to put away your Sorels, and throw on your Keds.  And yes, this means being able to finally enjoy some time outside and appreciating the beautiful city we live in. So throw on your jogging shorts and make your spring playlist because it’s time to explore Montreal with two jogging routes that are easily accessible from the downtown campus.

The Mount Royal Route

For anyone who has yet to scale the famous Mount Royal, now is the perfect time to do so. This route is the easiest to follow, but definitely the most challenging as it is a constant uphill struggle, literally. Once at the top, reward yourself with a break and take in the breathtaking views of Montreal’s downtown skyline. Try to spot your apartment and your favorite study spot on campus as well from the lookout point.

Start at the foot of the George-Étienne Cartier monument located on Avenue du Parc across from Parce Jeanne-Mance. Follow the main gravel route that wraps around the mountain to the top and you will have completed 7-11K depending on your exact route up. As an alternative, feel free to jog down the stairs on the way back; it will be easier on your knees.

.Check out the map here: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2542622

The Parc Lafontaine Loop

Easily accessible to those living in the lower plateau area, this loop is easily manipulated to make it however long you want. The loop itself is 3.3K, but you can choose to only run the perimeter route, which is only 2.4K. This route is perfect for a short jog between intense study sessions, or it can be converted to a longer run for those who are training for a road race. Begin this route just near the corner of Rue Sherbrooke E. and Avenue du Parc la Fontaine. With the exception of one hill approximately halfway into the route, the rest is smooth sailing. So enjoy the luscious greens around you and breathe in the warm spring air.

Here is the map: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2547886