Congratulations to Victoria, named by the Canadian government as Canada’s fittest city. Among its many claims to fame, Victoria has also been noted as the most walkable city in Canada; and a full 10.4 percent of the city’s workforce commutes by foot, more than in any other city in the country. Victoria encourages both residents and visitors with a host of stunning walking trails, including Scenic Marine Drive, which follows the Pacific around the southern coast of Vancouver Island; the West Song Walkway, a paved pathway along the Inner Harbour; and the Galloping Goose Regional Trail, which was built atop disused railway tracks and stretches 55 km (34 miles).

Besides walking, Victoria’s population regularly enjoys such outdoor pursuits as running, hiking, golf, kayaking, and water sports. That thirty-six percent of the city’s residents describe themselves as active, is perhaps due in part to Victoria’s mild, year-round climate. According to Statistics Canada, Victoria is also the address of more Canadian national team athletes per capita than any other Canadian city. Inspired? Summer and fall are both great times to check out this walkable city. If you can’t get to Victoria, check out the outdoor offerings in your own city through local park and recreational services, which often offer trail maps and city walking path guides. For more information visit www.TourismVictoria.com

Debra Bokur

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