What to Do in Canmore, Alberta: A Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure and Scenic Beauty

Canmore, Alberta, is a stunning town nestled in the Canadian Rockies, known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant outdoor activities, and quaint mountain-town atmosphere. Located just minutes from Banff National Park, Canmore offers everything from thrilling hikes and wildlife encounters to cultural experiences and unique local dining.

Here’s a guide on the best things to do in Canmore, covering outdoor activities, popular attractions, dining, and hidden gems.

1. Explore Canmore’s Scenic Hiking Trails

Canmore boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, each offering different levels of difficulty and stunning views.

a. Grassi Lakes Trail

Grassi Lakes Trail is one of the most popular and accessible hikes in Canmore. It offers two routes—an easy trail with wide paths and a more challenging trail with steep inclines. The trail leads to two turquoise lakes surrounded by rocky cliffs and alpine scenery.

b. Ha Ling Peak

For more experienced hikers, the Ha Ling Peak trail offers a challenging ascent with rewarding panoramic views of the Bow Valley. This hike is steep but manageable and gives a fantastic perspective over Canmore and surrounding peaks.

c. Grotto Canyon

The Grotto Canyon Trail is unique as it takes hikers through a narrow limestone canyon with petroglyphs, waterfalls, and frozen ice formations in winter. It’s a moderate hike and can be enjoyed year-round.

2. Discover Canmore’s Caves with Caving Adventures

Canmore is famous for its underground caves, offering a thrilling experience for adventure-seekers. Canmore Cave Tours provides guided tours into Rat’s Nest Cave, one of Canada’s largest caves. The tour includes options to rappel, explore narrow passages, and learn about cave formations. Caving is a year-round activity and perfect for those seeking a unique experience in the Canadian Rockies.

3. Stroll Through Canmore’s Downtown

Canmore’s charming downtown area is filled with shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes, making it ideal for a relaxed day of exploring. You’ll find a variety of local stores selling mountain gear, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Highlights include:

• Art Galleries: Check out the Avens Gallery or Carter-Ryan Gallery for local art and Indigenous works.
• Boutiques and Shops: Browse through shops like Project A and Mountain Mercato for artisanal items and mountain-inspired gifts.
• Coffee Shops and Cafes: Enjoy a coffee or snack at Communitea Cafe or Rocky Mountain Bagel Co., popular for their local atmosphere and tasty treats.

4. Enjoy Water Activities on the Bow River

The Bow River flows through Canmore, providing a scenic spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. Rentals are available at Canmore Canoe Adventures or Bow Valley SUP, and the calm sections of the river are perfect for beginners.

• Canoeing: Paddle along the Bow River for a peaceful experience with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: For those looking for a bit of a workout, paddleboarding and kayaking are fun ways to explore the water.

5. Take in Panoramic Views from the Canmore Nordic Centre

Originally built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, the Canmore Nordic Centre is a world-class facility that offers year-round outdoor activities. In winter, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking on over 65 kilometers of groomed trails. During the summer, these trails are ideal for mountain biking and hiking, making it an outdoor haven for adventure enthusiasts.

6. Go Wildlife Spotting in the Bow Valley

Canmore and its surrounding areas are rich in wildlife, including elk, deer, black bears, and eagles. Bow Valley Provincial Park offers scenic trails that are prime spots for wildlife observation, especially during the early morning or dusk. Remember to maintain a respectful distance from any animals you encounter.

7. Relax at the Canmore Hot Springs

While Canmore itself doesn’t have hot springs, the nearby Banff Upper Hot Springs is just a short drive away. These natural thermal pools offer a relaxing way to unwind and enjoy mountain views. The hot springs are open year-round and are a must-do for those looking to soak in the therapeutic mineral waters after a day of hiking or exploring.

8. Sample Local Beers at Canmore’s Breweries

Canmore is home to a thriving craft beer scene with several popular breweries.

a. Grizzly Paw Brewing Company

Grizzly Paw is Canmore’s most well-known brewery, offering a range of beers inspired by the Rockies, including IPAs, lagers, and seasonal specialties. Their pub also serves local dishes that pair perfectly with their brews.

b. Canmore Brewing Company

A newer addition to the Canmore brewing scene, Canmore Brewing Company offers a range of creative beers, including the “Ten Peaks Pale Ale” and “Railway Avenue Rye IPA.” The brewery has a welcoming tasting room and is popular with locals and visitors alike.

9. Embark on a Photography Tour

Canmore’s stunning landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise. Rockies Heli Canada offers helicopter photography tours that provide incredible aerial views of the Canadian Rockies. For those who prefer to stay on the ground, sunrise and sunset photography tours offer fantastic light and views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys.

10. Experience Winter Sports

Canmore transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of winter sports beyond skiing.

• Ice Climbing: Guided tours are available for ice climbing adventures on frozen waterfalls in the surrounding mountains.
• Snowshoeing: Many trails, including those at the Canmore Nordic Centre, are perfect for snowshoeing, allowing visitors to explore snow-covered forests and alpine views.
• Skating on Frozen Lakes: In winter, the nearby Lake Louise and Two Jack Lake in Banff National Park freeze over, offering scenic ice-skating rinks surrounded by mountain peaks.

11. Indulge in Local Cuisine

Canmore has a diverse culinary scene with something for every taste.

a. Crazyweed Kitchen

Known for its innovative fusion dishes, Crazyweed Kitchen offers a unique blend of international flavors with a mountain-town vibe. The menu features dishes like lamb shank, pizzas, and creative salads.

b. The Trough Dining Co.

This cozy, upscale restaurant offers a menu of seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, making it ideal for a special dining experience.

c. Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co.

For a casual dining option, Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. serves delicious wood-fired pizzas, salads, and local beers, making it a family-friendly choice in the heart of Canmore.

12. Take a Day Trip to Banff and Lake Louise

Canmore’s close proximity to Banff National Park and Lake Louise makes it an excellent base for exploring these iconic destinations.

• Banff: Just a 20-minute drive from Canmore, Banff offers attractions like Banff Avenue, the Banff Gondola, and Sulphur Mountain.
• Lake Louise: Known for its turquoise waters and mountainous backdrop, Lake Louise is about an hour’s drive from Canmore. It’s beautiful year-round, with activities like canoeing in the summer and ice skating in winter.

Conclusion

Canmore, Alberta, is a destination that combines outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and a welcoming small-town charm. Whether you’re hiking the trails, exploring caves, sampling craft beers, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, Canmore offers a unique Canadian Rockies experience that caters to all types of travelers. From rugged outdoor adventures to cozy restaurants and scenic photography spots, Canmore has something to make your visit unforgettable.