Each spring, Charleswood, Manitoba transforms into a pulse of movement and determination as the Manitoba Marathon breathes life into the community. For adventurers and runners alike, the marathon is more than a race; it’s a link to an environment where trails and routes challenge the body while inviting eyes to rest on the gentle flow of the Assiniboine River and the mature trees along the way. The main marathon route threads through Charleswood’s quiet residential sections, open parklands, and river views, spanning a full 42.195 kilometers on predominantly paved, flat surfaces. Elevation gain is minimal, averaging around 75 meters, but the route demands steady endurance more than steep climbs.

Nearby, surrounding paths and nature trails provide excellent options to explore before or after the marathon. The Harte Trail skirts the northern edge of Charleswood, offering mixed gravel and packed earth surfaces over approximately 7 kilometers. This trail follows the river’s edge, where currents push the boundaries of ice in early spring and the wind plays with low-hanging branches on summer evenings. It’s a suitable challenge for runners looking to warm up or cool down with more varied terrain.

Another option is the Boy Scout Trail — a quieter 4.5-kilometer loop weaving through forest patches and open fields. The terrain here is subtly undulating, totaling about 60 meters in climbing. Forest sections respond actively to footsteps, pine needles releasing fresh scents as the trail dips under the canopy, daring you to keep steady footing through occasional roots and narrow clearings.

For those preparing for the marathon or simply craving an immersive outdoor escape, timing your run or hike early in the morning will reward you with softer air and fewer distractions. Hydration stations are sparse off the main marathon course, so carry water especially for longer outings. Footwear with good grip and shock absorption will serve best, particularly on the mixed surfaces of nearby trails.

Local paths are fiercely themselves — they invite respect for the wildness surviving beside a growing city. Whether you’re pacing through the marathon’s flat, steady pace or exploring the variable trails beyond, Charleswood offers a practical and rewarding outdoor challenge grounded in accessible nature. Plan your adventure with care, respect the environment, and prepare to engage fully with a landscape that stays vigilant but welcoming.

This combination of marathon excitement paired with nearby trails makes Charleswood a dynamic destination for runners and outdoor enthusiasts alike.