Runnability correlates: Results of environmental scans in Vancouver

Abstract As recreational running grows in popularity, the concepts of runnability and runnable cities have emerged as important dimensions of urban livability. This study examined the environmental characteristics of Vancouver's most popular running routes to determine what makes a city runnable. Using Strava data, the most frequented running trajectories were identified through linear hotspot discovery. In‐person audits assessed environmental correlates of runnability along these routes, guided by an environmental scan instrument developed from a comprehensive literature review. This mixed‐method approach provided qualitative, on‐the‐ground insight into how runners experience and perceive runnable environments. This supports previous suggestions that nuanced, subjective observations are critical to capturing the complexity of runnability. Findings indicate correlates along popular routes largely align with emerging literature highlighting a strong preference for greenspaces over urban streetscapes. However, several findings diverged: bike‐only segments were heavily used despite literature suggesting cyclists deter runners; stairs and ramps were common despite the presumed preference for flat terrain; and wildlife encounters did not substantially influence route choice. Novel findings indicate that dedicated paths integrating natural features into the built environment, as well as dog off‐leash areas, contribute strongly to urban runnability.