Where to run in Trois-Rivières and Mauricie

Whether you’re training for your first 5 km, planning a long run before a fall marathon, or simply looking to get some fresh air after work, the Mauricie region has something for everyone. Here’s an overview of the best places to run in Trois-Rivières and the surrounding area, including the approximate distance, surface, atmosphere, difficulty level, and highlights for each.

Running along the River, right in downtown

The beating heart of running in Trois-Rivières lies where the city meets the St. Lawrence River. The downtown area is home to the most accessible routes, perfect for a quick workout or a leisurely run with a view of the river.

The Port Park and the riverside promenade

The Port Park promenade is probably the most iconic place to run in the city. This landscaped path runs along the St. Lawrence River right in the heart of downtown, offering views of the Laviolette Bridge and cargo ships sailing up the river. It’s the ideal starting point for exploring running in Trois-Rivières.

• Approximate distance: 2 to 6 km round trip, connecting the riverside sections.
• Surface: paved stones and asphalt sidewalk, flat along almost the entire route.
• Atmosphere: urban and lively, with outdoor cafes, a market, and boats; very busy in the summer.
• Level: beginner, ideal for a first 5 km run or a recovery run.
• Highlights: easy parking, evening lighting, water fountains, and restrooms nearby.

The seminary woods

Just a stone’s throw from downtown, the Saint-Joseph Seminary Woods offers a welcome contrast to the riverfront’s paved paths. This small green oasis nestled in the heart of the city features shaded trails that let you escape the city’s hustle and bustle without getting in the car.

• Approximate distance: short loops ranging from 1 to 3 km that can be strung together as desired.
• Surface: dirt and gravel trails, with a few tree roots.
• Atmosphere: quiet, wooded, away from traffic.
• Level: beginner to intermediate—a great introduction to off-road hiking.
• Highlights: Cool, shaded woods in the summer; right next to downtown.

The islands and large urban parks

Trois-Rivières is fortunate to be surrounded by islands and large landscaped green spaces. These areas offer pleasant loops, often surrounded by water, perfect for extending your run without worrying about traffic.

Saint-Quentin Island Park

Located at the mouth of the Saint-Maurice River, Île Saint-Quentin is a must-visit for runners in the region. Surrounded by water on all sides, the island features a network of trails and paths that circle the site, offering a surprisingly exotic natural setting for a place so close to the city centre.

• Approximate distance: loops ranging from 3 to 6 km by combining the island’s trails.
• Surface: a mix of gravel paths, asphalt, and dirt trails.
• Atmosphere: nature and relaxation, with a beach, wooded areas, and views of the water.
• Difficulty: beginner to intermediate, generally flat terrain.
• Highlights: A safe and well-maintained site, ideal for families; also open in winter for walking and snowshoeing.

Exposition Park

Exposition Park, located in the neighbourhood of the same name, is a large, multipurpose space that serves as a training ground for many local runners. Its wide paths and spacious parking lots make it a convenient spot for interval training, speed workouts, or simply an easy loop run.

• Approximate distance: 2- to 4-km loops depending on the route chosen on-site.
• Surface: asphalt and gravel paths, flat.
• Atmosphere: open and functional, with no elevation changes.
• Level: all levels; particularly good for interval training.
• Highlights: plenty of space, easy to access, distance markers that are easy to remember.

Bike paths for long runs

For those who want to go the distance without hitting an intersection every hundred metres, former railroad rights-of-way converted into bike paths are a godsend. Flat, straight, and well-maintained, they’re perfect for long runs and endurance training.

The bike path and the railway corridor

The railroad corridor follows the route of a former railroad track and connects several areas of the city and the region. Integrated into Trois-Rivières’ cycling network, it offers long, continuous stretches—perfect for covering kilometres at a steady pace without being disturbed by car traffic.

• Approximate distance: 5 to 20 km or more by linking sections together.
• Surface: smooth asphalt, with the very gentle, slightly undulating terrain typical of old railroad tracks.
• Atmosphere: peaceful, shared with cyclists and walkers, alternating between urban and wooded settings.
• Difficulty: intermediate to advanced, ideal for long runs.
• Highlights: few intersections, clear signage, ideal for maintaining a steady pace and tracking your progress.

The Vieilles-Forges trail

North of the city, the Vieilles-Forges area combines heritage and nature. The Vieilles-Forges Trail, near the lake and the historic site of the same name, features wooded paths that immerse runners in the industrial history of the Mauricie region while offering a relaxing setting.

• Approximate distance: loops ranging from 3 to 8 km depending on the branches taken.
• Surface: dirt and gravel trails, with some hilly sections.
• Atmosphere: forested and historic, along the water’s edge in some places.
• Difficulty: intermediate; a good terrain for getting started with trail running.
• Highlights: ever-changing scenery, fewer people than downtown, a great transition to trail running.

Trail running in the great outdoors in Mauricie

The region’s greatest strength is having a renowned national park just a few minutes’ drive away. For lovers of trails, elevation changes, and a true immersion in the forest, the Mauricie offers a virtually limitless playground.

Mauricie National Park

About thirty minutes from Trois-Rivières, Mauricie National Park stretches across a vast expanse of hills, lakes, and forests. Its many hiking trails are ideal for trail running, featuring challenging climbs, spectacular views, and dense woodlands. It’s the perfect destination for a long weekend nature run.

• Approximate distance: 5 to over 15 km depending on the trail, with many loop options.
• Terrain: natural trails, roots, rocks, and dirt; significant elevation changes in some areas.
• Atmosphere: wilderness, silence, wildlife, and panoramic views of the lakes.
• Level: intermediate to advanced, depending on the trail and elevation gain chosen.
• Highlights: total immersion, exceptional setting, perfect for trail running training; be sure to bring good shoes and enough water.

Before setting out, it’s worth mapping out your route and checking the distances on our map, then comparing them with the GPS tracks shared by the community.

Our tips for running in Trois-Rivières and the Mauricie region

No matter where you choose to run, a few simple tips will make every run more enjoyable and safer, from your first kilometre to a long run.

• To get started: begin at the harbour park or Île Saint-Quentin. The flat terrain, landmarks, and reassuring number of people make these perfect spots for a run-walk routine and your first 5 km.
• For long runs: opt for the railroad corridor or the bike path. The lack of intersections lets you maintain a steady pace and refuel without breaking your rhythm.
• In winter: the region has no shortage of snow. The riverfront and Île Saint-Quentin remain accessible, but be sure to bring removable crampons for the ice and dress in layers. Forest trails can become great routes for running on snow or snowshoeing.
• Safety: In the evening, wear reflective gear and a headlamp, especially on less-lit routes. When on trails or in the national park, let a friend or family member know your route, bring water, and keep your phone charged.
• Wind and Heat: The riverfront is beautiful, but the wind can be strong there; dress appropriately. In the summer, run early in the morning or in the evening and take advantage of the shade provided by the woods at the seminary or in Vieilles-Forges.

If you’re in the mood to compete, the Mauricie region hosts some great races every year. Check out the races in the Mauricie to find a goal that will motivate you to get out there, rain or shine.

Conclusion

From the riverside promenade to the trails of Mauricie National Park, via Île Saint-Quentin and the railroad corridor, Trois-Rivières and its surrounding area offer a complete playground for running. There’s something for everyone—from beginners aiming for their first 5 km to seasoned runners seeking elevation gain and natural scenery. Lace up your shoes, explore our routes, and check the Québec race calendar to turn your runs into real goals. Happy running!