With over 800 kilometers of cycling and walking paths in the Ottawa area, the options for creating an unforgettable running route are truly endless! Choose from inner city routes, paved paths or forested trails.
Where to run
The beauty of outdoor running is that all you need is a good pair of road running or trail running shoes. Strap on your favourite ones and step out the door. Downtown Ottawa and surrounding areas provide ample opportunities for runners to clock some kilometres.
Run along Wellington Street downtown for an incredible view of the Parliament Buildings. Or head to the Chief William Commanda Bridge, a pedestrian/cycling-only bridge that stretches over the Ottawa River to Quebec.
Looking for even more of a challenge? You’ll find a spot perfect for hill sprints at Mooney’s Bay. Or drive over to Gatineau Park, where there are plenty of trails you can run along. The best part? You’ll be treated to stunning views on routes like Pink Lake, Skyline and King Mountain.
Run clubs around Ottawa
Make your run a social one by attending one of Ottawa’s many weekly run clubs!
- Ottawa City Run Club (OCRC)
- Meets on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at Beyond the Pale for a 4-8km run, often with two route options
- Slowpokes Ottawa
- Meets on Saturdays at 10 a.m. for a 5km run and post-run coffee at Little Victories
- Almonte Run Club (ARC)
- Meets at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday for a 5km run
- Arboretum Hill Club
- Meets at 6:29 a.m. on Fridays in the Arboretum for hill repeats and bodyweight workouts
- The November Project
- Meets on Wednesdays at 6:29 a.m. at Lansdowne Park for a variety of stair running and workouts
- And many more!
Learn more about the various run clubs in Ottawa and the surrounding areas here.
