Running Routes in Fredericton
I love running, I’ve been at it for over 22 years. There are days, however that I grudgingly lace up my sneakers and head out the door. To battle the onset of “runners rut” what I do is throw in a route that I have never done before, or, at least, for a while. If you are heading out as a beginner, or if you are a seasoned runner, I have a few ideas of routes in Fredericton that will have you mixing it up a bit, adding a little spring in your stride, just in time for the lovely days of summer!
1. Killarney Lake
This is one of my favourites to run for two reasons. First, I like running on packed trail versus pavement, and, two, c’mon, you’re running the perimeter of this beautiful lake! If you run just the perimeter of the lake it is approximately 2km, but if you are feeling adventurous you can veer off onto the secondary trails, which adds about another 15km. If it’s a particularly hot day, end your run with a nice cool swim!
2. UNB Woodlot
For those of you wishing to have a terrain that varies, try this run (and perhaps opt for trail running shoes). I like to park across from the Scotiabank South Turf field (there’s a parking lot, that is well marked) and the distances can vary (4km-13km) depending on what you are up for. It is the closest and largest forested property owned by the University, totalling 3,815 acres. To plan your run here, visit the Hiking NB site.
3. Downtown to Nashwaak, Gibson or Northside trail
This is my usual “go to” run that I would do on a workday, as it fits nicely into a lunch time outing. Starting from downtown, make your way over the train bridge (photo Op Alert!) and run past the Trail Visitor Centre. I usually make that split second decision on whether to go veer off to the Gibson Trail, keep going straight onto the Nashwaak Trail, or go slightly left onto the Northside Trail. What normally happens is I do a distance out and back, as looping would run into the hour plus category.
4. Odell Park
I run Odell Park when I want to get a dose of “serene” into my run. It really is quite magical how one minute you can be in the city, and the next you are among breathtaking old growth forest, with just enough shade from the canopy to make this run amazing. The best part? You’re running amongst some of the oldest trees (400+ years!) in Fredericton.
5. Lincoln Trail from Downtown
For this route you have the beautiful Saint John River on one side and the grand, stately homes that line Waterloo Row, to your right (a great run for all you history and architecture buffs!) You can then make your way past Morrell Park and cross the street to meet the paved Lincoln Trail to the left. If you are pressed for time, simply do an “out and back”, or keep running where this trail will eventually lead you to the Trans Canada Trail.
6. Fredericton Taproom Trail
If you like to run, and you like beer, then this is the perfect combination for you! Whether you go on foot or bike, this is a great way to sample craft beverages from 11 local producers. All you need to do is, visit the #FredTapTrail website, print the passport (or get a copy from participating outlets) collect stamps from each participating brewery and before you know it, you have enough stamps for some very cool swag!
Is Fredericton your next running destination? Why not spend a couple of nights with a Stay and Play package? Partner hotels are offering up some great deals with perks like $50 in Downtown Fredericton dollars or Business Fredericton North dollars and more! Check them out here.
Which one will you try? Whatever you decide, you can count on one thing: Fredericton provides some pretty breathtaking scenic points along the way! Check out the Fredericton Trail Guide for details on other great routes!
