Spring has sprung! After a long and grueling winter, it's finally time to get outside and enjoy some fresh air with the perfect temperatures for running.
We can't think of a better way to breakup with winter cabin fever than lacing up your sneakers and getting out for a run. Not sure where to go? We've got you covered! Experience all the beauty that London, Ontario as you clear your mind or prep for that spring or summer race. We’re happy to share some of our favourite running routes in the city.
Springbank Park
Full of rich running history, Springbank Park played host to the famous Springbank Road Races in the 1970s & 1980s that drew some of the top running talent from across the globe. This beautiful 300-acre park has many concrete roads and paths that give you tons of run options. Alternatively, there are many grassy areas if a softer surface is what you’re after. In spring, this is a popular spot to take in London's cherry blossoms, so it could be the most stunning run on this list! The park also features multiple indoor washroom facilities that are open year-round. For a map of the park, please click here.
Gibbons Park
Located steps away from London’s downtown core and nestled right along the Thames River, Gibbons Park is a runner’s paradise. Offering both grass and pavement running terrain, the park also has a splash pad, water fountains and an indoor washroom facility. This park is a favourite practice location for Western University’s varsity cross country teams in the fall months, so watch out for wild Mustangs running around! For a map of the park, please click here.
Fanshawe Conservation Area
Calling all trail runners! If you're tired of running on the unforgiving concrete of roads and sidewalks, Fanshawe Conservation Area is the destination for you. With three different trail loops to choose from, runners can stay on a smaller loop or take on the twenty-kilometre Fanshawe Lake trail that circles all the way around the Fanshawe Reservoir. This could be the perfect spot for a long training run for those with their sights on a marathon. For a map of the park trails, please click here.
Thames Valley Parkway
The Thames Valley Parkway is a great running option that can be accessed from a variety of locations across the city, as the parkway spans for forty kilometres. It hugs the Thames River and winds its way through the aforementioned Springbank Park and Gibbons Park, as well as Harris Park in downtown London. The two-way path is paved, making it ideal for runners who are looking for a consistent surface for the duration of their run. For a map of the parkway, please click here.
KAINS WOODS
Arguably London’s biggest hidden running gem, this trail is a five-kilometre stretch of pure running bliss. The winding dirt trail offers a more challenging terrain with rolling hills that climb up and down the banks of the Thames River. Accessing this trail should be done from one of the official access points, which can be found by clicking here. For more information, check out our dedicated Kains Woods blog.
Feeling motivated and looking to test yourself among other runners? Check out The Forest City Road Races for a variety of race distances and a fun race day atmosphere, with all proceeds going to a great cause!
Tag @TourismLondon and #ExploreLdnOnt on your running adventures for the chance to be featured on our platforms!
