wellness
Canal Saint Martin Walking Trails: Five Routes Ranked by Distance
Canal Saint Martin paths offer clear options measured in kilometres and elevation for residents seeking daily movement.
How we reported this
Walkers along the Canal Saint Martin now have five marked routes graded by exact distance and slope, with the shortest flat option measuring 1.8 kilometres and the longest route reaching 7.4 kilometres with 45 metres of total ascent.
Local use of these trails has increased after the Mairie du 10e posted updated maps and distance markers in March 2025, as residents seek steady outdoor routines amid rising summer temperatures in central Paris.
The route that begins at Square Frédéric Lemaître follows the Quai de Jemmapes for 2.1 kilometres before returning via Rue de Lancry, staying entirely level with no stairs. A second option starts at Jardin Villemin, crosses the canal at the lock near Rue de la Grange aux Belles and adds a short climb through the adjacent green space for a 3.9 kilometre moderate loop.
Short flat options
The easiest trail runs from the Bassin du Combat entrance to the Rue du Faubourg du Temple bridge and back, a 1.8 kilometre round trip on paved towpaths with benches every 400 metres. This path stays below two percent grade throughout and requires no special footwear.
Longer routes with elevation
The most demanding option leaves Jardin des Archives, follows the canal north to the Rue Louis Blanc footbridge, then detours through Parc de la Villette edges before returning along Rue de Crimée, totalling 7.4 kilometres and 45 metres of ascent spread across three short ramps. A mid-length choice of 4.8 kilometres combines the Quai de Valmy path with a detour into Square des Récollets, adding 22 metres of climb over two stair sets.
Paris city data from the 2024 Parcours Santé report recorded 68 percent of 10th arrondissement adults walking at least one canal route each week, a 22 percent rise from the 2022 count. All listed trails remain free to access with no entry fees or timed reservations required.
Residents can download the current distance charts from the Mairie du 10e website or join the weekly Saturday group walk that departs Jardin Villemin at 9 a.m. and covers the 3.9 kilometre moderate loop.