Climb the Coquitlam Crunch and Other Fun Ways to Get Fit Outdoors

Comments 69 by Guest Author Thursday, September 7th, 2017 — 5:28pm PDT

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Have you done the Crunch? No, not the ab exercise, but the fitness trail in Coquitlam that involves climbing 473 stairs followed by an uphill hike that gains 250 metres in 2.2 kilometres. It’s a physical challenge that you just might want to add to your September bucket list!

Climb the Coquitlam Crunch

While the Coquitlam Crunch is sometimes referred to as a smaller, urban version of the Grouse Grind, this trail is not as long or as pain-inducing, unless you opt to do stair repeats (it’s a thing).

The route follows the power lines up the hill to Westwood Plateau, with the entire loop back down to the base taking 1-1.5 hours to complete. You’ll see everyone from gym buffs to preschoolers en route, with even some speedsters racing up the stairs. You’ll work up a sweat and be rewarded with pretty great views from the top.

Unlike the Grind’s forested setting, the Crunch cuts through largely open terrain that’s surrounded by residential homes. The trail is easily accessed by road (free parking on Lansdowne Drive) or transit (by bus from Coquitlam Central SkyTrain station).

This is just one of the many options to take your workout outdoors this month. From hiking challenges to a colour run, September is all about fun activities we can do in the fresh air. Here are a few to try:

Coquitlam Events in September

Coquitlam Crunch Challenge Coquitlam Crunch Diversity Challenge
Saturday, September 9, 2017
This annual event offers three categories for varying fitness levels. The recreational group is geared toward all ages and involves completing the loop at least once. Other options include the ‘Stair Master,’ which involves racing up the 437 stairs, or the ‘Make It or Break It’ challenge to see how many times you can complete the entire Crunch loop within four hours (current record is eight times).

Terry Fox Run
Sunday, September 17, 2017
Join in this annual run in celebration of Terry’s Marathon of Hope. This family event is non-competitive, so you can go at your own pace. Coquitlam’s event takes place at Mundy Park.

Color Vibe 5K
Saturday, September 23, 2017
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be painted from head to toe in coloured powder, here’s your chance. This 5 km walk/run is geared toward all ages – yes, kids too! – and will coat Town Centre Park with rainbow colours. Note this powder – made from cornstarch and baking soda – is non-toxic and environmentally safe. It all ends with a dance party complete with a DJ and colour throw countdowns.

Color Vibe 5K

Free and Fun

Table Tennis
Sure, it can work up a sweat! Pack your paddles and ball for a free game on the outdoor tables next to Percy Perry Stadium at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park (a short walk from Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain station).

Disc Golf
Disc Golf is played much like traditional golf, although instead of a ball and clubs, you throw a disc. The object is to complete each hole in the fewest throws. Coquitlam’s Mundy Park hosts a free nine-hole disc golf course (located near Spani Pool, 655 Hillcrest St.) with nets on site as permanent targets.

Mountain Biking
Did you know Coquitlam is an up-and-coming mountain biking destination? Burke and Eagle mountains are gaining recognition for a West Coast style of riding. Not sure where to start? Contact Tri-Cities Off Road Cycling Association (TORCA) to join them for a free group ride. Please bike responsibly, respect the natural habitat and stick to the trails.

Explore Coquitlam

Shop : Looking for some retail therapy? How about shoes, a new Lululemon bag or electronics from the Apple Store? Whatever it is, Coquitlam is a shopping destination. Pop in to Coquitlam Centre to peruse the nearly 200 stores or stop by the Farmers Market on Sundays at Dogwood Pavilion (Poirier and Winslow). Furniture? Don’t miss the stores around United Boulevard. For more shopping areas and suggestions, see pg. 11 in Coquitlam’s Travel and Experience Guide »

Eat/Drink: After all that activity, you have likely worked up a thirst. For restaurant recommendations, turn to pages 37-38 in Coquitlam’s Travel and Experience Guide »

Enter to Win

I have a prize package to offer up so that you can #ExploreCoquitlam this month! The winner will get 2 tickets to the Color Vibe 5K, a $50 gift card from Coquitlam’s own Mariner Brewing, and vouchers for two pizzas at La Ruota Pizzeria.

Here’s how you can enter to win:

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Click below to post an entry on Twitter

[clickToTweet tweet=”RT to enter to win an #ExploreCoquitlam prize pack @colorvibe5k @marinerbeer @laruotapizza http://ow.ly/25tC30eZQnX” quote=” Click to enter via Twitter” theme=”style6″]

I will draw one winner at random from all entries at 12:00pm on Thursday, September 14, 2017. Must be 19+.

For more information about these free events and outdoor adventures, Explore Coquitlam online.

Update The winner is Sara Cubs!