Summer-time Running in Toronto

When you live in a big city it can be a challenge to 'get back to nature'.  Fortunately I live in Toronto and very fortunately right next to the Humber River.  And despite what you hear about the dysfunction in our local government, they were wise enough years ago to create a trail system along the bank that run for miles.

While it's not maintained in the winter, with the little snow we do get, it's often possible to get in a satisfactory run.  Now that summer is here, the full tree cover and greenery make for quite a scenic running route.

So, here are a few of the photos I took recently of one of my favourite places to run...along the Humber River in Toronto:

This is the start of my usual route along the Humber River.  The river is on the left at this part but in about 50 metres it crosses over the Humber River on a wooden bridge.  It's a strange feeling:  while the bridge is very sturdily constructed and supported, there is quite a lot of bounce on the wooden cross beams.  

Yes this is Etobicoke!  It's hard to believe that just metres away are busy roads and trains.  Down here though the sounds fade away.

I did mention the trains.  After an out-and-back run from basically Dundas Street down to the Old Mill near Bloor, I captured this as I was nearing the end of my run last week.  This is a pretty heavily used train route and it can get noisy at times but hey, we're in The City!

Off the main paved trail there are some 'detours' running closer to the river that provide some variety.  All hard packed dirt.  Can you smell the grass and trees?

I know I'm back home when I pass this 'Monolith'.  It feels like something out of a Planet of the Apes but it is really just one of the supports of the train bridge.  In about 30 seconds from this point is the final steep uphill back to our place.

Ahhh...another great run along the Humber River.

Until next time...

ThatRunninGuy

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I'm raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation in 2013.  My goal is to raise $2,000 by December 31.  My other planned races in 2013 include:

1. The Toronto Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront 1/2 Marathon, October 20
2. The Reggae Marathon, December 7.  

Please join me on Facebook at Run for Heart.