Lucas CloutierDo you feel suffocated by city life? Don’t worry, we get it.
Sometimes you just need to break free and break a sweat. That’s where running comes in!
Lucky for you, Vancouver’s got some killer trails to help you escape the concrete jungle. We’ve rounded up the best ones that’ll have you trading skyscrapers for trees in no time!
Whether you’re a casual jogger or a hardcore trailblazer, we’ve got options for every type of runner. So lace up those sneakers and let’s hit the ground running!
Stanley Park Seawall
– Media credit: waicaca
Website: https://stanleyparkvan.com/stanley-park-van-seawall-stanley-park.html
Address: Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Operating hours Open 24 hours
Level: Easy
Length: 6 miles
Elevation gain: 249 feet
Average completion time: 1 hour 58 minutes
An easy, breezy running adventure means going off to Stanley Park. It’s the perfect place for birdwatching, biking, and jogging, so expect some company along the way.
Open year-round, the park is always a sight to behold in every season. With its stunning waterfront views of Coal Harbour, Burrard Inlet, and English Bay, Stanley Park is undeniably every runner’s dream trail.
If you follow the famous Stanley Park Seawall Trail along the shoreline, fantastic views await from every angle. And yes, your furry friends can join too, just keep them on a leash!
| Pro Tip: And if you’re driving in, be prepared to pony up for parking — it’s not free, and rates fluctuate. Or, skip the hassle and hop on public transit — there’s a handy bus stop right by the Seawall. |
False Creek Loop
– Media credit: audrey.runs.the.world
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/false-creek-south.aspx
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Hours: Open 24 hours
Level: Medium
Length: 6.4 miles
Elevation gain: 328 feet
Route type: Loop
Average completion time: 2 hours 9 minutes
The False Creek Loop brings a bit of challenge to your run (or jog). You can catch the skyline of downtown Vancouver while you move those legs, and angles do change with every step!
Whether you’re a local looking for a good sweat or a visitor soaking in the sights, this route’s got you covered. If you need a breather, there are plenty of spots to sit and snap some scenic pics.
Plus, you’ll swing by Granville Island, Creekside Park, David Lam Park, and George Wainborn Park along the way!
| Pro Tip: This trail’s year-round, and just keep any dogs on a leash! |
Beaver Lake to Stanley Park Seawall
– Media credit: schrodingers_kittens
Address: Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating hours Open 24 hours
Level: Moderate
Length: 4.9 miles
Elevation gain: 465 feet
Route type: Loop
Average completion time: 1 hour 53 minutes
If you breezed through the Stanley Park Seawall, this one’s here to give you a run for your money! You’ll rub elbows with fellow outdoor enthusiasts since it’s a hotspot for birdwatching, mountain biking, and road biking.
The trail is perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll. It’s family and pet-friendly, boasting colorful wildflowers and the occasional critter sighting.
While parts are paved, watch out for mud patches. Open all year round, it’s a stunner no matter the season.
You can expect a delightful journey through forests and along the seawall as you soak in the scenic views. Plus, there’s ample parking at the trailhead and restrooms dotted along the way.
If you took the wrong turn, don’t worry. They just spice up the adventure! You can always backtrack and find your way.
| Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for some uphill stretches. Take it easy if needed. |
Gastown to Coal Harbour to English Bay and Yaletown Loop
– Media credit: coalharbour
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/coal-harbour-seawall.aspx
Hours: Open 24 hours
Level: Easy
Length: 6.4 miles
Elevation gain: 246 feet
Route type: Loop
Average completion time: 2 hours 4 minutes
The Gastown to Coal Harbour to English Bay and Yaletown Loop is THE spot for birdwatching, biking, and jogging. But beware, you won’t be alone due to locals and tourists looking for stunning city, ocean, and mountain news in the park.
While on or after this loop, you can get your urban adventure fix with a side of history and window shopping. Along the way, you can feast your eyes on cool artwork and quirky architecture.
Plus, it’s smooth sailing on this flat, well-paved path. Bikers have their own lane, so you can zoom without dodging cars.
Just be warned: shade is scarce, so pack that sunscreen.
| Pro Tip: For parking, head to the northeast end of the trail for ample spots. Accessibility-wise, it’s mostly smooth sailing, but watch out for a few steep bits. |
Kitsilano Beach to Secret Beach
– Media credit: kevellstone
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/kitsilano-beach.aspx
Location: Kitsilano Beach Park, 1499 Arbutus St, Vancouver, Canada
Hours: Open 24 hours
Level: Easy
Length: 1.1 miles
Elevation gain: 32 feet
Route type: Out and back
Average completion time: 21 minutes
When you want a breezy workout with a side of coastal vibes, then you know it’s time to lace up for a casual jog or run and soak in the seaside scene. And this trail is the one you’re looking for!
The Kitsilano Beach to Secret Beach trail in Vancouver is known for bird-watching, paddle sports, and biking.
Expect to mingle with fellow beach lovers and maybe spot some bird enthusiasts or paddle pros. Hey, you might even catch some folks just chilling by the waves!
For a refreshing stroll along the bay, this trail’s your jam. It starts at Seaside Park’s parking lot and takes you past two beautiful beaches.
The first is near Kitsilano Yacht Club and the second is aptly named Secret Beach (though it’s not so secret). And hey, why not swing by Kitsilano Beach Cafe for a quick pick-me-up along the way?
| Pro Tip: It’s best to hit the trail during off-peak hours for some peace and quiet. Dogs are cool to run with you too but just keep them on a leash. |
Stanley Park Inner Loop
– Media credit: _nguyenwinnie
Website: https://stanleyparkvan.com/stanley-park-van-seawall-stanley-park.html
Address: Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Operating hours Open 24 hours
Level: Moderate
Length: 4.9 miles
Elevation gain: 337 feet
Route type: Loop
Average completion time: 1 hour 45 minutes
If you’re up for some bird-watching, cycling, or jogging, Stanley Park Inner Loop is the place to be. This spot is popular year-round, so expect a lot of other people around.
Nestled by downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park has killer views of Coal Harbour, Burrard Inlet, and English Bay. This loop lets you soak in all the park’s beauty without getting stuck in traffic.
You can expect a feast for the eyes with flowers, squirrels, and chirping birds aplenty. Perfect for rookies in the hiking and running game, this trail treats you to scenic spots like Lost Lagoon and Beaver Lake, giving you a taste of Stanley Park’s diverse terrain.
And hey, even though you’re in the city, pack your hiking day essentials. Oh, if you’re feeling peckish or thirsty, hit up the Teahouse or the Brewing Restaurant & Brewpub.
| Pro Tip: If you’re itching for more adventure, check out the Indigenous artwork, the totem poles at Brockton Point, and the Nine O’Clock Gun. |
Arbutus Greenway
– Media credit: zenaidakwong
Website: https://vancouver.ca/streets-transportation/arbutus-greenway.aspx
Location: Vancouver, BC, Canada
Hours: Open 24 hours
Level: Easy
Length: 5.3 miles
Elevation gain: 196 feet
Route type: Point to point
Average completion time: 1 hour 44 minutes
The Arbutus Greenway is meant to be shared with fellow enthusiasts because it’s the place to be for biking, jogging, and leisurely strolls. This spot is open year-round, so no excuses!
Just imagine a smooth, paved path tracing Arbutus Street, welcoming both cyclists and walkers alike. It winds through different neighborhoods, with separate lanes for each.
And when you reach the community gardens area, it’s like a breath of fresh air, a touch of rural charm in the urban jungle.
If you’re into the urban oasis scene, you’ll dig this pathway between Broadway and 12th Avenue. It’s less about greenery and more about the urban stuff, but trust us, it’s a cool run!
| Pro Tip: For a bit of a workout, head to Kerrisdale for some elevation. Then enjoy the easy ride downhill toward the Fraser River and downtown. |
Gastown to Coal Harbour to English Bay and Yaletown Loop
– Media credit: miino_0_098
Hours: Open 24 hours
Level: Easy
Length: 6.4 miles
Elevation gain: 246 feet
Route type: Loop
Average completion time: 2 hours 4 minutes
When you’re in the mood for some urban running jaunt, head from Gastown to Coal Harbour to English Bay and Yaletown Loop for a buzzing adventure!
Open year-round, this route serves up stunning city, ocean, and mountain scenes. Plus, you can do some window shopping and soak up the city’s history while you’re at it.
Keep your eyes peeled for cool public art pieces and interesting architecture as you breeze along the flat, well-paved paths. With separate lanes for bikers and minimal car traffic to dodge, it’s a smooth ride or stride from start to finish.
| Pro Tip: The trail is mostly a gentle slope, though there are a few steep bits to tackle. And if you’re coming by car, there are lots of parking spots at the northeast end of the trail. |
Sunset Beach Park
– Media credit: instantcolor
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/sunset-beach.aspx
Location: 1204 Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6E 1V3, Canada
Contact: 604-873-7000
Hours: Open daily from 7 AM – 11 PM
Level: Easy
Length: 1.5 miles
Elevation gain: 49 feet
Route type: Out and back
Average completion time: 29 minutes
Sunset Beach is tucked snugly at the mouth of False Creek and it’s your go-to spot between Bute Street and Thurlow Street. This beach is a hidden treasure as it’s not as packed as others, but still super close to downtown Vancouver.
Plus, with the Vancouver Aquatic Centre nearby and the False Creek Ferry pier right there, you’ve got everything you need for a day of fun in the sun.
Whether you’re into jogging, paddling, or cruising on your bike, this place has you covered. And expect to bump into fellow beach lovers since locals and tourists alike love this spot.
The best part is you can enjoy the stunning views any time of year. That’s why the name!
The trail is mostly flat and paved, so even kids can tag along. So grab your shades, slather on some sunscreen, and let’s hit the beach!
| Pro Tip: For parking, you’ll find spots at the Jervis parking lot, managed by EasyPark. |
Fraser Foreshore Park Trail
– Media credit: ziggywaffles
Website: https://www.burnaby.ca/explore-outdoors/parks/burnaby-fraser-foreshore-park
Location: Burnaby, Vancouver, BC V5S 4V7, Canada
Hours: Dependent on weather
Level: Easy
Length: 8.7 miles
Elevation gain: 177 feet
Route type: Out and back
Average completion time: 2 hours 39 minutes
When looking for a spot to stretch your legs and escape the urban hustle, a great choice would be the Fraser Foreshore Park Trail! It’s the go-to for runners, bikers, and those who just love a good jaunt outdoors.
Don’t worry about crowds; you can still find your own patch of peace, especially if you time it right. This trail’s a year-round winner, with something to show off in every season.
Sure, you might encounter a bit of construction noise at times, but once you hit the trail proper, it’s smooth sailing. Just watch out for the occasional rain shower as things can get a tad squishy.
Waterproof shoes are your friends on these wet days unless you prefer sticking to the concrete paths. And when autumn comes, this place transforms into a riot of color, courtesy of all those leafy trees.
| Pro Tip: Just keep an eye on the weather; this area can close up shop temporarily if conditions get too wild. But hey, that’s just Mother Nature keeping things interesting, right? |
