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Just south of the world-famous Banff National Park, in the heart of the Bow Valley, you’ll find the quaint mountain town of Canmore.
As the gateway to Kananaskis—"Alberta's Mountain Playground"—residents and visitors alike flock to this small settlement for a taste of outdoor adventure in the nearby mountains, rivers and foothills. Whether you’re looking to ski in a world-class facility, visit a local museum, ice climb, kayak, canoe or embark on a cave tour, you can do it in Canmore.
Canmore is located just 88.0 km west of Calgary and 23.0 km south of Banff. The main roads to Canmore are the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) and the Bow Valley Parkway (Route 1A). With all roads, snowfall can limit accessibility and wildlife crossings are frequent. Keep an eye out.
Here we'll take you through the basic overview of hiking in Canmore—including how to get there, where to stay, where to eat, what to see and what to watch out for.
Getting to Canmore
Getting to Canmore is easy. You can easily access Canmore from Calgary International Airport, serving many major international and North American airlines. From the airport you can either rent a private vehicle (perhaps the best option if you want to further explore Banff, Lake Louise and the Icefields). Or, you can opt for a shuttle service such as Banff Airporter, Brewster Banff Airport Express or the luxury service, Highland VIP.
Residences in Canmore Alberta near the trailhead
Cross Country Ski Trails at the Nordic Centre in Canmore
Best time to visit Canmore
If you're looking for a best time to visit Canmore, just know that it is definitely a year-round destination, offering something for everyone during each season. In the winter time enjoy a number of snow-related activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding and ice climbing. The weather here rarely comes above freezing, however, so make sure to pack layers. Spring already starts to show in early April, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy nearby Banff without the big crowds. In the summer, the weather warms a bit, but still remains comfortable for outdoor activities. This is the time to go if you want to enjoy long hiking days. As September arrives, the leaves begin to change—creating a stunning backdrop of fall foliage. The air is crisp and the weather unpredictable, so be sure to pack warm clothes.
Average monthly temperature and precipitation:
How to get around in Canmore
There are a few options to get around Canmore. The first is by renting a car, which is necessary to access most of the hikes. If that’s not possible you can call a private taxi or hop on the Roam bus. This public transport option travels throughout Canmore and Banff as well as to other connections within the Bow Valley. You can take bikes on the bus as well.
Spray Lakes Reservoir is a must-see in Canmore
Where to stay in Canmore
Need advice on where to stay in Canmore? Canmore boasts a number of accommodation options—perfect for those on any budget—from luxury hotels to multi-person condos. When visiting Banff, we often suggest staying in Canmore as it is very close by and less expensive. For more complete information about accommodation in Canmore, please click here.
If you want luxury accommodation, the Stone Ridge Resort, Black Stone Lodge, Copperstone Resort and Falcon Crest, offer a mix of single rooms and suites complete with gourmet kitchens, private patios and cozy fireplaces. These four hotels—all highly rated on Trip Advisor—are also run by the same company.
Fly Fishing is one of the best attractions in Canmore
For a charming stay reminiscent of the English countryside, we recommend the Georgetown Inn. Tucked inside a Tudor-style mansion, you’ll find a number of cozy guest rooms, just minutes from Banff. Top it off with a drink in their authentic pub for a lovely stay.
We also like the quaint Mount Engadine Lodge in Kananaskis (near Canmore). Recently, TripAdvisor named this authentic mountain lodge one of Canada’s “Top Ten Hidden Gems”. Waking up in the pristine wilderness of the Spray Valley Provincial Park, you definitely won’t regret a stay here.
There are also a number of places to camp within Canmore. Find out more here.
View of the Rocky Mountains from Canmore, Alberta, Canada
Beautiful Winter views on Canmore, Alberta, Canada
Where to eat in Canmore
Canmore also boasts a wide variety of options for eating. If you want fine dining, head to The Trough. With a rotating set price menu based on what’s seasonal and just nine tables you can be sure of a customized, intimate dinner experience here. If you want something a little more "caliente" head to Tapas. Serving a mix of shared plates based on authentic Spanish ingredients and old-world flavour this is a local favourite (with live Latin music!).
If you’ve got meat on the mind, Gaucho Brazilian BBQ is the place to be. They serve certified Alberta Beef, wine from local vineyards, regionally-produced herbs and more—all in the traditional Brazilian style (called Rodizio dining).
For a more casual dining experience, we recommend Rocky Mountain Flatbread. They offer a mix of freshly made pizzas, pastas, salads, soups and more with an emphasis on sourcing from local farmers. Another great option is the Iron Goat Pub & Grill. Here you can find a hearty mix of comfort foods such as Bison Onion Soup, hand cut steaks, baby back ribs and Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread.
For those into healthy clean eating, check out breakfast and lunch at Communitea Café. Here you can find a great mix of fueling breakfasts and lunch bowls, sandwiches, salads, soups and wraps—and they are vegan friendly. If you’re looking for a hot cup of coffee, made-from-scratch breakfast bagels and more, check out Rocky Mountain Bagel Co.
Three Sisters Mountain Range in Canmore is a must-see view
Things to do in Canmore
If you're looking for things to do in Canmore, you're in for a treat. With Lake Louise, Kananaskis and the Icefields in close proximity, Canmore is the perfect year round destination for a wide variety of activities. In winter, you can head to the slopes, cross country ski or snowshoe throughout the magnificent landscape.
In summer, the possibilities really open up. There is great cycling routes, with fun road bike and mountain bike trails in Canmore and all around. If you don't have a bike, don't worry, Rebound Cycle has a great rental fleet of road, mountain, trail and fat bikes. They also do guided tours and will organize custom adventures.
The area boasts an elaborate cave system, which you can explore with companies like Canmore Cave Tours. Some tours are even available all year round! Nearby Banff Adventures also offers guest a number of adventures such as rafting, canoeing, helicopter flights, wildlife tours, skydiving, gondolas, ATV tours, Via Ferrata and more.
Canmore is also home to a number of art galleries, with many celebrating and showcasing works from local artists. As well, there are many spas you can relax in after a long day exploring.
Love to Hike? Here are our best hikes in Canmore.
Canmore Creek Cascades and Quarry Lake trail should be included in planning your trip to Canmore
Three Sisters Mountain Range in Canmore must be seen in autumn
Dangers in the park
- Never feed or approach wildlife. Always carry bear spray.
- You must use the food storage cables or lockers provided to suspend or secure all food, garbage, toiletries (e.g. deodorant) and cooking equipment.
- Even though it may look pristine, make sure you boil, treat or filter all water before drinking it.
- Pay attention to avalanche conditions, especially at higher altitudes.
- Weather can change quickly. Make sure to bring multiple layers.
- The roads may be very crowded during peak seasons. Pay attention to wildlife, especially at dusk and dawn.
- Always bring sunglasses, a hat and wear sunscreen – even in winter. The sun at the alpine altitude is very strong.
- The nights can get very cold – even in summer. Pack a warm sleeping bag.
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Canadian Rockies Articles
Check out this list of articles to help you plan your next holiday in the Canadian Rockies. Get tips and valuable information that will turn your trip into an incredible adventure!
Trip Planning in the Canadian Rockies
- Planning your trip to Banff National Park
- Planning your trip to Canmore
- Planning your trip to Castle Provincial Park
- Planning your trip to the Icefields Parkway
- Planning your trip to Jasper National Park
- Planning your trip in the Kananaskis
- Planning your trip to Lake Louise
- Planning your trip to Waterton National Park
- Planning a Family trip to the Canadian Rockies
- Planning a Family trip to Canmore
- List of tours in the Canadian Rockies
Canadian Rockies Hiking and Camping Articles
- Best Dog Friendly Hiking Trails in Alberta
- Best Family Hikes in Banff National Park
- Best Family Hikes near Calgary
- Best Larch Hikes in Alberta
- Frontcountry Camping in Banff National Park
- Underrated Campgrounds in Alberta
Canadian Rockies Backpacking Articles
- Best Backpacking Trails for Families in the Rockies
- Best Backpacking Trails in Banff National Park
- Best Backpacking Trails in Canada
- Best Backpacking Trails in Western Canada
- Best Backcountry Campgrounds in Banff National Park
Other Canadian Rockies Articles