Things To Do
in Canmore
Canmore is a picturesque town nestled in the Canadian Rockies, known for its stunning mountain views and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town is located just outside of Banff National Park, making it a popular destination for hikers, skiers, and nature enthusiasts. Canmore's charming downtown area is filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries, offering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Visitors to Canmore can explore the surrounding wilderness, including hiking trails, biking paths, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Grassi Lakes Trail for a refreshing hike with stunning views. Take time to enjoy the vibrant turquoise lakes and vibrant flora along the trail.
Visit Canmore's quaint downtown area for lunch at a local café and explore unique shops. Don’t forget to check out the Canmore Museum to learn about the area's history.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant. Consider trying some regional cuisine while enjoying views of the mountains.
Kick off your day by booking a guided rock climbing experience at one of the local climbing spots. Experienced guides will help you conquer the cliffs safely.
After climbing, recharge with lunch and head to the Canmore Nordic Centre for some cycling. The trails offer various terrains suitable for all levels.
Enjoy a laid-back dinner at a brewery in town. Sample some locally crafted beers while relaxing in a cozy atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery with proximity to the Canadian Rockies.
- Access to a wide range of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
- Strong sense of community and a small-town atmosphere.
- Rich cultural scene with local festivals, art galleries, and markets.
- Proximity to Banff National Park and numerous other natural attractions.
- High cost of living and housing prices compared to other areas.
- Limited job opportunities in certain fields, particularly outside of tourism.
- Tourism can lead to overcrowding, especially during peak seasons.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for getting around.
Best Activities in Canmore
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Canmore offers numerous hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging mountain treks, providing stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.
Explore the extensive network of mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels, with options for scenic rides or technical challenges.
Canmore is a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts, featuring various climbing routes on its rugged cliffs and boulders.
Discover the local flora and fauna by embarking on wildlife watching tours or hikes, with opportunities to spot elk, deer, and other native species.
Enjoy kayaking or canoeing on nearby lakes such as Lake Minnewanka or the Bow River, offering a peaceful way to experience the area's natural beauty.
In winter, Canmore transforms into a ski resort town, with access to nearby ski areas like Sunshine Village and Mt. Norquay for downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Play a round of golf at one of the scenic golf courses in Canmore, such as the Canmore Golf and Curling Club, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
Experience fly-fishing or spin fishing in the local rivers and lakes, which are home to various fish species, including trout.
During winter months, enjoy snowshoeing trails that allow you to explore the beautiful snowy landscapes at a leisurely pace.
Relax in the nearby natural hot springs at Kananaskis Country, a perfect way to unwind after a day of outdoor activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Canmore with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Canmore
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a challenging hike with stunning panoramic views of Canmore and the surrounding mountains.
Features an easy hike leading to two beautiful turquoise lakes with picturesque mountain backdrops.
Provides breathtaking vistas of the Three Sisters mountain range and the Bow Valley.
Food in Canmore
Canmore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Canadian specialty, the bison burger is a must-try in Canmore. Savor the rich and lean meat sourced from the nearby Canadian Rockies, available at various local eateries such as The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company and The Iron Goat.
Must-Try!
Fresh wild Alaskan or Pacific salmon is a local delicacy. Indulge in this flavorful and sustainably caught fish at Blake or Tapas Restaurant which offer delectable seafood dishes.
Indulge in a unique dessert that captures the essence of Canadian culinary traditions. This delightful confection is offered at various local bakeries and restaurants, including Communitea Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Canmore better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market, open from June to October, is a hub for locally grown produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods. Visitors can sample and purchase a variety of street foods, including organic snacks, maple syrup treats, and fresh-made pastries.
Not just a brewery, Grizzly Paw also offers a street food experience with its cozy outdoor patio and food truck, serving up gourmet hot dogs, artisanal pretzels, and craft beer-infused menu items.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Canmore is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, and residents and visitors alike hold a strong appreciation for the environment. It's important to respect wildlife, adhere to marked trails, and avoid littering to preserve the area’s natural beauty.
Canmore has a close-knit community, and residents value friendly interactions. When meeting locals, a smile and casual greeting are welcomed. Engaging in community events shows respect and appreciation for local culture.
Canmore is a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and biking. When using shared trails or parks, follow the posted rules, be courteous to fellow outdoor enthusiasts, and yield to those who are going uphill or engaged in more intense activities.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Canmore with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Canmore
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canmore, Canada, tipping practices typically follow North American standards. It is common to tip service workers, such as those in the hospitality and restaurant industries, with a customary tip range of 15% to 20% of the total bill before tax. For exceptional service, patrons may choose to tip more. Common sectors where tipping is expected include restaurants, bars, taxis, and hospitality services. In some cases, gratuity may be automatically included for large groups.
Payment practices in Canmore reflect a modern approach, with most establishments accepting various forms of payment. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with contactless payment options being popular. Many businesses also accept mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. In addition, some restaurants may allow customers to split bills easily, accommodating groups who wish to pay separately. Cash is still accepted but is less common, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Canmore.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Canmore as the weather starts to warm up, the snow begins to melt, and the landscape comes to life with blooming wildflowers.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Canmore, with warm temperatures ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the stunning natural surroundings.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Canmore, with the foliage turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it perfect for photography and outdoor activities.
Winter in Canmore offers excellent opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, as well as the chance to witness the area's snow-covered beauty.
Canmore at Night
Hiking in Canmore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular and picturesque hike that leads to two stunning turquoise lakes, offering breathtaking views of Canmore and the surrounding mountains.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of Canmore and the Bow Valley from the summit.
A family-friendly hike that takes you through a scenic canyon with fascinating rock formations and a chance to view ancient petroglyphs.
An easy and scenic loop trail that follows the Bow River, perfect for a leisurely walk with views of the surrounding landscape.
Features a network of trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking, with options for all skill levels amidst beautiful mountain scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Canmore through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Canmore by plane.
The nearest major airport to Canmore, located approximately 106 kilometers (66 miles) away. It serves as a primary gateway for travelers to the Canadian Rockies.
Located about 365 kilometers (227 miles) north of Canmore, this airport is another significant international hub in Alberta.
Approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) southwest of Canmore, this airport serves the Okanagan Valley and connects to a number of international destinations.
Situated about 600 kilometers (373 miles) west of Canmore on Vancouver Island, this airport is accessible by ferry and offers international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Canmore, primarily of European descent.
Includes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, reflecting the original inhabitants of the area.
A minority group, including individuals of East Asian and South Asian descent.
A smaller demographic group, consisting of people of African descent.
A minority group with roots in Latin American countries.
Includes individuals from diverse backgrounds not specifically categorized above.
The Soul of Canmore
Discover the essence of Canmore through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Canmore is renowned for its beautiful ski resorts and cross-country skiing trails, attracting winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.
With a variety of trails ranging from beginner to advanced, Canmore is a popular destination for mountain biking during the summer months.
The surrounding mountains and parks offer numerous hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, making hiking a popular activity year-round.
Canmore's unique geological formations provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing, appealing to both novice and experienced climbers.
In the winter, Canmore transforms into a popular location for ice climbing, with many routes available for climbers looking for a challenge.
The scenic trails around Canmore are ideal for trail running, attracting runners who enjoy both the challenge and the stunning views.
Canmore features several beautiful golf courses that take advantage of the region's picturesque landscapes, making it a popular summer sport.
Curling is a community favorite in Canmore, with local clubs and events that bring residents together during the winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Canmore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Canmore has a remarkably high number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants such as The Trough Dining Co. and Summit Cafe. These establishments offer a variety of creative and satisfying plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find an array of gluten-free options at establishments like Gaucho Brazilian Barbecue and The Georgetown Inn, which offer dedicated menus or can accommodate dietary needs upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Canmore with these cultural adventures.
