What a wonderful season for marathon training. And, what a wonderful schedule that made it possible to do my long runs in three different regions where I could seek out new vistas.

First, my local go-to on the Capital Greenbelt through Wildwood Park and nearby areas. Second, a weekend getaway to the Jersey shore. Finally, my longest run in Mont-Tremblant on the P’tit Trail du Nord.

The Canadian autumn is about as good as it gets for foliage and temperature that can be a bit crisp and perfect for a morning run. Thankfully the unusual hot weather that caused the October 5 P’tit Trail Du Nord Marathon to be closed down before all runners finished had cleared out of the area before my arrival.

I waited for temperatures to rise above freezing before making my way to the door, gels and water secured in my pack. I begin by heading three or four miles south on this old snow train track, repurposed into a multi-use path that runs across a good portion of Quebec, from the south end in Saint-Jérǒme to Mont Laurier to the north, a distance of 234 kilometers.

Doing long runs in the autumn, I feel like a kid going out to play. The scrunch of new-fallen maple and birch leaves underfoot only intensify that sense. In another six weeks, the bikes flying by me will be replaced with cross-country skiers.

I turned around at about four miles, most of which was uphill. I enjoy a bit of the downhill on the return. I did stop to enjoy the sound of the creek that runs along much of this section.

Train routes remade into bike paths generally are not flat and the Pt’t Trail is no exception. In the out and back distances I did on this run, I had 512 feet of ascent and 427 feet of descent.

Heading north as I passed my start point, the trail leveled out as I approached the Old Village of Mont-Tremblant on my right and Lac Mercier on the left.

At around mile 16, my mind began to wander (when did I take that last gel?) and my inquisitiveness (read nosiness) kicks in. I wonder what is behind that gate, is that an outdoor sauna in the woods, how great would it be to take a break, trespass on that dock and sit in the sunshine, on and on.

Returning near my start, I realize I’m a mile short of goal, so I do a short jaunt down a nearby lane. Here, I find a pond with a few lily pads remaining on the surface. a flock of wild turkeys to welcome my return and a nearby warning sign.

Last long run complete. It’s time to relax for a week or two, eat well, catch up on housework – or NETFLIX, and continue to enjoy this beautiful season. As the signage on the P’tit Trail says ‘osez ralentir’ – dare to slow down. Happy training and happy taper to you!.