The best running trails around Kawartha Lakes

The running routes in Kawartha Lakes offer a diverse landscape. You'll find many trails built on former railway beds, providing relatively flat and accessible paths. The region also features woodlands, farmlands, and wetlands, alongside numerous lakes and rivers. Some areas, like those in Balsam Lake Provincial Park, showcase unique glacial landforms such as eskers and kames, offering modest changes in elevation and interesting terrain.

Yes, Kawartha Lakes offers options for various fitness levels. Many of the rail trails, such as sections of the Victoria Rail Trail, are generally well-maintained and provide a consistent, relatively flat surface ideal for easy runs or beginners. The guide includes one easy route, and the overall network is designed to accommodate different abilities.

While running in Kawartha Lakes, you can experience a rich array of natural features and historical landmarks. You might run alongside the scenic Trent-Severn Waterway, past numerous lakes and rivers, or through extensive forests and wetlands like the Altberg Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Reserve. Notable landmarks include the historic Doube's Trestle Bridge, which offers breathtaking views over the Buttermilk Creek valley, and the Trent-Severn Waterway Lock and Waterfall.

Absolutely. The region is known for its scenic beauty. For instance, trails in Balsam Lake Provincial Park, like the Lookout Trail, wind through unique geological formations and offer panoramic views. The Doube's Trestle Bridge on the Trans Canada Trail also provides spectacular vistas over the Buttermilk Creek valley, making for a memorable running experience.

Yes, the guide features several circular running routes. For example, you can explore the Running loop from Haydon, which is 7.2 km (4.5 miles) long, or the Running loop from Peterborough, covering 6.7 km (4.1 miles). These loops offer a convenient way to start and finish your run in the same location.

Yes, the Kawartha Lakes region is home to significant rail trails perfect for longer runs. The Kawartha Trans Canada Trail offers extensive mileage, and the Victoria Rail Trail (VRT), built on an old CN railroad, is well-maintained and provides a pleasant experience, especially the section leading to Fenelon Falls. These trails offer consistent surfaces for extended running.

Kawartha Lakes offers beautiful running conditions across multiple seasons. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and stunning natural scenery, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, especially for waterside runs, though it's advisable to run in the mornings or evenings to avoid the midday heat. Winter running is possible on cleared trails, offering a serene, snow-covered landscape.

Many of the trails in Kawartha Lakes are suitable for families, especially those looking for a leisurely run or walk. The relatively flat rail trails, like sections of the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail and the Victoria Rail Trail, are generally easy to navigate. Provincial Parks such as Balsam Lake Provincial Park and Emily Provincial Park also offer multi-use trails that are great for family outings.

Many trails in the Kawartha Lakes region are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park or trail regulations before you go. Generally, provincial parks and conservation areas allow dogs on trails, often requiring them to be on a leash. The extensive network of rail trails also typically welcomes leashed dogs, making it easy to enjoy a run with your canine companion.

Yes, the Kawartha Lakes region is dotted with charming waterside communities that offer amenities for runners. Towns like Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon, and Peterborough, which are often connected by or close to various running routes, provide opportunities to find cafes, restaurants, and other services to refuel after your run.

Many of the provincial parks, conservation areas, and trailheads throughout Kawartha Lakes offer convenient parking facilities. For instance, starting points for routes within Balsam Lake Provincial Park or Emily Provincial Park typically have designated parking. Similarly, access points for major rail trails like the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail often include parking options, making it easy to begin your run.

Komoot features a growing selection of running routes in Kawartha Lakes. Currently, there are at least 4 routes detailed in this guide, with many more available for exploration across the region's extensive trail network. Over 30 runners have already used komoot to discover the varied terrain here.