Get Running at the Lake
There is nothing quite like an early morning run along the shores of Sylvan Lake and if silence is golden than runners in Sylvan Lake are rich!
Sylvan Lake is highly walkable and pedestrian friendly making it a runners paradise! Set off on foot into Central Alberta’s most popular lake community with some of the best running and walking terrain in Central Alberta.
There are over 26-kilometres of trails connecting beautiful parks, the vibrant downtown and famous lakefront which is what hooked the Sylvan local, trainer and triathlete Scott McDemott into calling Sylvan Lake home.
“I run through all the seasons. There are a lot of local routes depending on how far you want to go. There are a lot of great spots such as Jarvis Bay Provincial Park for trail running and Sylvan Lake is getting more and more interconnected trails throughout town,” McDermott said.
For McDermott it’s the unique mix of trail types in Sylvan Lake that make it a true runner’s destination. The benefits of running and exercise cannot be overstated. McDermott said it’s one of the best ways to leave your stress behind and gain a variety of physical benefits.
“Running has massive benefits. Running or even a brisk walk is better than almost every medication for our brain chemistry. You feel good, sleep better – the benefits go on and on,” McDermott said.
Best Sylvan Lake Running Trails
- Sylvan Lake Boardwalk
Sylvan Lake’s boardwalk along Lakeshore Drive is the perfect spot for an early morning or sunset run if you want to avoid the summer crowds. Just be sure to bring a device and share your awesome pics of the golden hour!
The route runs along the water and it’s the perfect place to take in the fresh lake air. From 50th street to 46th street is Centennial Park, the trail is a hub for beach goers. Heading East from Centennial Park to 34 street the trail is much quieter.
2. CP Trail and Connected Paths
For a less busy route opt for the CP trail. You can easily build a custom route with lots of trails that run throughout the community. Running through the tree covered trail with glimpses of songbirds and local parks is stunning.
The CP Trail runs straight across town from east to west. Much of the trail is covered in a tree canopy and it accesses the Sylvan Lake Disc Golf Course. This paved trail is great if you want to bring your kiddos or doggos along.
3. Jarvis Bay Provincial Park
Just five minutes North of town, a run at Jarvis Bay Provincial Park feels like you are in another world. Overlooking the lake, wooded trails throughout the park give you peek-a-boo views of the cliffs along the lake. It’s great spot for a nature inspired adventure. The trails here are mainly dirt and gravel.
“You can run the 3-kilometre perimeter trail at Jarvis Bay Provincial Park, and it is quite lovely,” McDermont said.
The beauty of trail running in Sylvan Lake is that you get to see a lot of terrain in an efficient way while getting a great workout in one of the most scenic locations in Central Alberta.