Things To Do
in Canmore
Canmore is a scenic mountain town in Alberta’s Bow Valley, just west of Banff National Park. Nestled among limestone peaks along the Bow River, it offers easy access to iconic trails, glaciers, and alpine scenery. The town blends outdoor adventure with arts, dining, and boutique shopping, making it a year round base for exploration.
Its friendly, small town vibe and striking scenery make it an ideal gateway to the Canadian Rockies.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Check into your cozy accommodation nestled in the heart of Canmore. Take a leisurely walk around the town to familiarize yourself with the scenic surroundings. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring the fresh mountain air.
Explore the Canmore Nordic Centre, where you can rent bikes or gear for a day of adventure. Enjoy the pristine trails as you soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Stop for a picnic lunch in one of the designated areas, appreciating the tranquility.
Dine at a rustic restaurant that offers local cuisine and craft beer. After dinner, stroll through the charming downtown, perhaps stopping by a local shop or art gallery. End your night by relaxing at your accommodation, gazing at the stars in the clear mountain sky.
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast before heading out to the Grassi Lakes trailhead. The hike is relatively easy and offers stunning views of sparkling turquoise lakes as its reward. Bring your camera to capture the scenery that's perfect for Instagram.
After reaching the lakes, take time to swim or simply enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. Have a packed lunch amidst the breathtaking landscape while listening to the soothing sounds of nature. For those feeling adventurous, a short scramble to the higher viewpoint offers panoramic vistas.
Return to Canmore and indulge in a delicious meal at a nearby bistro. Join a local event or live music session at a bar to mingle with fellow travelers and locals. Wind down your day at one of Canmore’s popular ice cream shops, treating yourself to a sweet dessert.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 CAD |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 CAD |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $120-250 CAD |
| 🚗Car rental (per day) | $60-120 CAD |
| 🎿Lift pass (full day, nearby resorts) | $120-180 CAD |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and year-round outdoor activities
- Compact town with easy access to Banff and surrounding parks
- Friendly locals, walkable town center, and good dining options
- Strong base for day trips to the Canadian Rockies
- Can be crowded during peak seasons and weekends
- Prices can be high relative to some other Canadian towns
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Wildlife encounters require caution and preparedness
Places to Visit in Canmore
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic trio of peaks viewed from the highway and nearby overlooks, perfect for dramatic sunrise or golden hour shots.
Turquoise glacial lakes framed by forest and canyon walls; a classic spot for vibrant nature photography.
Quaint boardwalk with water reflections and mountain backdrops near downtown Canmore.
Waterways with mountain silhouettes, ideal for sunset reflections and tranquil landscape images.
Rolling trails and alpine views great for wide landscape shots, especially in late afternoon light.
Food in Canmore
Canmore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Wild game burgers featuring local Alberta meat, often found at pubs and casual bistros.
Must-Try!
Prime cuts served with roasted vegetables or peppercorn sauce at many mid range to fine dining spots.
A Canadian staple of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, available in many casual eateries.
Wild or responsibly sourced salmon prepared on cedar for a smoky mountain flavor, found in several local restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in town featuring local produce, baked goods, jams, and prepared foods; great for sampling regional treats.
Seasonal street food options and snacks around the town core, especially during market days and summer festivals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Do not feed wildlife; keep a respectful distance; store food securely when camping or picnicking.
Stay on marked trails, pack out trash, and respect quiet hours and wildlife habitats within national and provincial parks.
Dress in layers for changing mountain weather; be courteous to locals and fellow travelers; keep noise levels considerate near residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Canmore
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tipping is customary in restaurants and bars at about 15-20% of the pre tax total; tips for service staff in cafes and casual spots are appreciated but optional.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is accepted but increasingly less common in smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours and warm days with occasional afternoon thunderstorms; perfect for hiking, biking, and lake activities. Pack layers and sun protection; water and snacks are essential on longer treks.
Crimson and gold foliage with cooler temps; wildlife activity increases and skies can be crisp and clear for photography. Layers and a light waterproof are recommended.
Snowy landscapes and cold, crisp days; ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing, and cozy indoor gatherings. Dress in insulated layers and be bear-aware if exploring remote trails.
Melt and thaw bring muddy trails in early season; shoulder-season deals and fewer crowds. Trails can be slick, so footwear with grip is helpful.
Canmore at Night
Hiking in Canmore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular easy to moderate hike to turquoise lakes with forest and canyon scenery.
Steep but rewarding trail offering panoramic valley and peak views; suitable for experienced hikers.
Challenging ascent with dramatic alpine views and technical sections for advanced hikers.
Spectacular canyon with waterfalls and catwalk bridges; a classic day hike in the region.
Beautiful lake hike through forest and meadow landscapes in nearby Kananaskis Country.
Airports
How to reach Canmore by plane.
Major international and domestic hub about 1.5 to 2 hours by car from Canmore; frequent connections to major cities.
Smaller regional airport serving private and charter flights; closer to the Calgary area than YYC.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long term residents, families, and seasonal staff from across Canada and abroad drawn by outdoor work and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Alpine skiing and snowboarding are popular in nearby resorts and backcountry areas.
World class trails and scenic routes throughout Bow Valley and Kananaskis Country.
Seasonal sport on frozen waterfalls and ice routes in the surrounding mountains.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Canmore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Canmore offers many vegetarian options across cafés and restaurants; look for veggie bowls, salads, and meatless mains; many spots can adapt dishes on request.