Vancouver is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. From its lush forests to the sprawling seaside, it’s no surprise that this beautiful city attracts thousands of tourists yearly. What is surprising, however, is that there’s actually folks living here who’d still prefer to stay in shape via a stale old cardio machine in a smelly, crowded gym.

Why not take advantage of living in one of the most diverse eco-systems on the planet and take your workout outside?

Whether that drab treadmill workout is just not cutting it or if you’re simply looking to add a little variety to your morning run, here is our list of the best spots to run in the Lower Mainland.

Vancouver

Stanley Park Seawall

What list about running spots in Vancouver is complete without the mention of this iconic Vancouver Running hotspot? With views like this, it’s easy to see why people flock to the seawall in droves.

Ambleside Seawall

If you’re looking for an alternative to the often crowded Stanley Park seawall, this 5km run is located in West Vancouver.

Pacific Spirit Park

Located in the heart of Vancouver’s Point Grey neighbourhood, this popular and isolated running locale is a hit with the UBC crowd. Located at 5495 Chancellor Blvd, Vancouver.

Jericho Beach to Spanish Banks, Vancouver

Can’t decide between a park or a beach run? This popular 5K route offers the best of both worlds and brings the two together in harmony.

Trout Lake Park

Located just a short walk from the Commercial Skytrain station, this park offers low impact jogging trails with beautiful views of Trout Lake. Perfect for the runner looking for a spot for a quick morning jog.

Lions Gate Bridge, Vancouver

Scenery buffs will love this views of our beautiful city while running across this Vancouver Landmark.

Richmond

Iona Beach Park

Located about a 35 minute drive from Vancouver, this Richmond seaside route boasts beautiful views of the ocean.

Minoru Park

Located conveniently at the heart of Richmond’s city center, this favourite of residents young and old offers many scenic trails situated around the stunning Minoru lakes. If you time your workout right, you just may even witness a wedding at one of the most adorable wedding chapels in the Lower Mainland.

Burnaby

Deer Lake Park

Perfect for the novice runner, this park is home to low-impact trails that offer a scenic view of beautiful deer lake in Burnaby.

Burnaby Mountain

If you’re looking for something that offers a wide variety of options, look no further than Burnaby Mountain. With 25 trails to choose from, this jogger’s paradise is bound to have something to suit anyone’s skill level. As a plus, you get the opportunity to take in the splendor that is Burnaby Mountain.

Coquitlam

Mundy Park

Considered by the residents of Coquitlam to be one of their most treasured attractions, this park is home to a 5.5km multi-use trail.

Traboulay PoCo Trail

This valued landmark takes you on a 25.3 km tour of all that Port Coquitlam has to offer. It takes you through a sampling of many different backdrops, from a paved journey through a residential and urban area to the scenic riverside.

Surrey

Tynehead Regional Park

The west side of this popular surrey park is home to a very popular 4.5km trail. If you are so inclined, this park is also equipped with a lovely picnic area to rest and enjoy that after workout snack.

Green Timbers Urban Forest

One of Surrey’s largest parks has plenty to offer. Not only does it surround Green Timbers Lake, it also features a 5 km nature trail.

Langley

Fort to Fort trail

Considered by many to be the jewel on the crown of Langley’s park scene, this 15 km trail sprawls from Fort Langley to Derby Reach. Along the way, you’ll be treated to some of the most gorgeous scenery the Fraser Valley has to offer. If you consider yourself to be a running trail aficionado, this one is definitely worth the trip across the Port Mann Bridge.

Aldergrove Regional Park

Located on the border of Aldergrove and Abbotsford, this park’s trail could quite possibly be the Fraser Valley’s best kept secret. The 5 km trail takes you through an idyllic setting and features many ponds and streams.

Campbell Valley regional Park

This popular South Langley Park has a combined 29 km of trails to suit just about anyone’s needs. Quick tip – if you decide to take on the Shaggy Mane Trail, make sure you yield to all horses. Many equestrians are attracted to this multi-use route and trail etiquette requests that you yield to our rather large 4 legged friends at all times.

As you can see, when it comes to running spots, the possibilities seem endless. Our mild climate paired with striking scenery makes this the ideal place for year round running nirvana. Ditch the gym – it’s time to take advantage of everything the GVRD has to offer. Happy running!