One of my favourite running routes is around False Creek. Although my 10k route down to the docks does have a number of traffic lights, I enjoy passing by the local stores and parks along the way. The route is from Queen Elizabeth Park, down Heather Street, along False Creek, passing Science World, then back across Cambie Street Bridge, and all the way up Cambie Street to the park.
The best pars of running down Heather is passing by the beautiful character houses and, at this time of year, fluffy cherry blossoms lining the streets. As your pass Douglas and Heather Parks, you can often see children’s sports teams, and a small outdoor fitness gym for body weight workouts.
Going down towards the water is extremely downhill, which I like for training ankle/knee strength. There are a couple lights passing by the Vancouver General Hospital and crossing West Broadway, but after taking a left to cross 6th Avenue at Moberly Road, you’ll be at the seawall in no time. Following Moberly Road, turn left at Market Hill, which leads to Leg-in-Boot Square, and then feast your eyes on the stunning view of countless yachts docked in the sparkling water.
For this route, I turn right at the water, which will take you under the Cambie Street Bridge. As you make your way through Hinge Park, you’ll see the fantastic Vancouver Biennale sculpture called Human Structures by Jonathan Borofsky. Next, you’ll be at Telus World of Science (or Science World), one of the most iconic structures in Vancouver. The golf ball-shaped building is definitely worth a visit for all ages, but if you aren’t keen on being surrounded by children, keep your eyes peeled for the next After Dark adult evening event. This will mark 5k.
You might want to take a slight detour to view the newest Vancouver Biennale sculpture called the Trans Am Totem by Marcus Bowcott on Quebec Street and Milross Avenue. It’s a fascinating sight, and only a couple minutes off the seawall route.
As you make your way towards the North end of the Cambie Street Bridge, you will pass by Edgewater Casino and enter Coopers Park. Going up the bridge will be your first real incline in the route. On the bridge, don’t forget to look out to enjoy a spectacular view of Science World flanked by aesthetically pleasing evenly spaced high-rises.
Once you exit the bridge, prepare yourself for three things: a major incline, traffic lights, and pedestrian congestion. I prefer to climb hills when I can keep my momentum, so this is my least favourite part of the route. The congestion is particularly high by Broadway-City Hall Canada line station.
From there, the traffic lights and congestion reduce. Around 12th Avenue, after passing City Square Mall, the incline reduces significantly. Cambie corridor has loads of cute local restaurants and cafes that might give you some ideas on where to carb-up later. Before you know it, you’ll be back at the park!
Vancouver Lifestyle Blog 