Things to Do
Canmore, Alberta offers something for everyone, whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, relaxation, culture, or exceptional dining experiences. Nature lovers can immerse themselves in the beauty of the area by hiking trails like Grassi Lakes and Ha Ling Peak, exploring the wilds of Kananaskis Country, or enjoying activities such as mountain biking, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding on nearby lakes and rivers. For those who prefer a slower pace, Canmore’s charming downtown features local boutiques, art galleries, and craft breweries, or you can unwind with a relaxing spa treatment or a scenic drive along the picturesque Bow Valley Parkway.
Outdoor Activities:
Hiking & Nature Trails:
Grassi Lakes Trail (easy/moderate): Stunning turquoise lakes and waterfalls.
Ha Ling Peak (moderate/difficult): A challenging 7 km hike with panoramic views.
Grotto Canyon (easy/moderate): Hike through a narrow canyon with ancient rock art.
Kananaskis Country (multiple trails): A vast area offering hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
Rock Climbing:
Canmore's Quarry and other local climbing spots offer outdoor climbing experiences for all skill levels.
Mountain Biking:
Trails around Canmore Nordic Centre or Glen Eden provide a mix of cross-country and downhill biking.
Wildlife Viewing:
Explore the wilderness on a wildlife safari tour in Kananaskis or Banff National Park, spotting elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and possibly bears.
Kayaking & Canoeing:
Rent a kayak or canoe at Spray Lakes Reservoir, Lake Minnewanka, or Bow River.
Fishing:
Try fishing along the Bow River or Spray Lakes (with proper permits).
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP):
Paddle on Spray Lakes or Canmore’s Bow River.
Skiing & Snowboarding (Winter):
Canmore Nordic Centre offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months.
Horseback Riding:
Explore the surrounding landscapes with a guided horseback riding tour in the foothills.
Scenic Drives & Views:
Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A):
A beautiful drive between Canmore and Lake Louise, with many opportunities for sightseeing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
Icefields Parkway:
For a longer scenic drive, head north to experience the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the world, leading to the Columbia Icefield.
Canmore Engine Bridge:
A historical pedestrian bridge that spans the Bow River, offering views of the surrounding mountains.
Spray Lakes Reservoir:
A stunning area for photography, with opportunities to picnic, hike, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Local Attractions & Culture:
Canmore Museum & Geoscience Centre:
Learn about the local history, geology, and the region's indigenous peoples.
The Canmore Art Guild:
Visit local galleries, such as The Art Gallery of Canmore, to see works by local artists inspired by the Rocky Mountains.
Canmore Brewing Company:
Sample locally brewed craft beers at this popular microbrewery in town.
Canmore Farmer's Market (summer months):
Visit the local farmers’ market for fresh produce, artisan goods, and food vendors.
The Canmore Cave Tours:
Explore Rat's Nest Cave on a guided tour, a thrilling underground adventure in the area.
Historic Main Street:
Stroll down Main Street, lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and cafés.
Adventure Activities:
Ziplining (near Canmore):
Head to Kananaskis for an adrenaline-pumping zipline adventure.
Helicopter Tour:
See Canmore and the surrounding Rockies from the air with a helicopter tour offering aerial views of glaciers, peaks, and valleys.
Rocky Mountain Flight Training:
If you’re interested in flying, take a scenic flight lesson with a local flight school.
Via Ferrata at Mount Lady MacDonald:
Try the Via Ferrata on Mount Lady MacDonald—an exciting climb along a fixed cable system (for more experienced climbers).
Spa & Wellness:
Solara Resort & Spa:
Relax with a full-service spa treatment after your day of adventures.
Riverside Spa at the Fairmont Banff Springs:
A luxurious spa experience in nearby Banff, perfect for unwinding with a massage or other wellness treatments.
Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary:
Just outside Canmore, this sanctuary provides a chance to learn about and interact with wolfdogs.
Shopping & Dining:
Rundle Mall:
A pedestrian-friendly shopping district with boutiques, gift shops, and local artisan goods.
Tavern 1883:
A popular spot for dining, with a cozy atmosphere and an excellent selection of dishes inspired by local ingredients.
The Wood Restaurant & Lounge:
A great place to enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients.
Crazy Weed:
Known for its eclectic and innovative menu, it’s a great place to sample modern Canadian cuisine.
The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company:
Enjoy locally brewed craft beer and classic pub fare at this iconic Canmore brewpub.
The Market Bistro:
A charming restaurant offering classic Canadian comfort food, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Family Activities:
Canmore Nordic Centre:
In summer, the centre offers mountain biking, hiking, and roller skiing, while in winter it’s a popular cross-country skiing hub.
Brewery & Distillery Tours:
Take a tour at Canmore Brewing Company or Wild Life Distillery to learn about local beverages and taste some samples.
Bow River Trail:
A flat and scenic walking trail suitable for families, with beautiful views of Canmore and the Bow River.
Glen Eden:
A family-friendly area for cross-country skiing, hiking, or a simple picnic near Canmore.
Unique Experiences:
Star Gazing at Kananaskis:
The dark skies around Canmore and Kananaskis offer amazing opportunities for stargazing, with several nearby viewing spots.
Parks Canada Discovery Programs:
Participate in interpretive programs in nearby Banff National Park, including guided walks, wildlife talks, and more.
Day Trip to Lake Louise:
A must-see when in the area—Lake Louise’s iconic turquoise waters and surrounding hiking trails are not to be missed.
Hot Springs at Banff or Radium:
Relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs or take a short drive to Radium Hot Springs for a soothing soak after a long day.
Local Tips
Weather: Canmore’s weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Bring layers, sunscreen, and water for outdoor activities.
Permits: Make sure to check for any required permits or passes (e.g., for fishing or national park access).
Timing: Summer is the most popular time for outdoor activities, but some trails may be busier—try early morning or later in the evening for fewer crowds.
With its blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, Canmore offers something for everyone—whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed outdoor adventure.
Please note, the activities listed above are suggestions only; not included in your workshop fees.
We use cookies to improve your experience and to help us understand how you use our site. Please refer to our cookie notice and privacy statement for more information regarding cookies and other third-party tracking that may be enabled.
