Canmore

Written by Alexander Kopp, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans
01/08/2025
Stunning view of the Bow River with mountains and forest in Canmore, Alberta, Canada.
David Josephson, Pexels

Canmore, nestled in the Canadian Rockies, offers a captivating blend of stunning mountain vistas and a wide array of outdoor adventures throughout the year. It attracts visitors primarily seeking an active engagement with nature, from challenging hikes to serene water activities, within a charming and often quieter setting than its larger neighbour, Banff.

Downtown Canmore provides opportunities for visitors to socialize, featuring local breweries and various restaurants. The town generally offers a more relaxed social atmosphere, catering to those who appreciate a less bustling environment.

Top 5 Things to do in Canmore

Canmore provides a diverse range of activities, focusing on outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and cultural experiences within its stunning mountain setting.

1. Hiking the Grassi Lakes Trail

This trail offers access to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Grassi Lakes. Visitors can choose between an easier path winding through lush forest, or a slightly more challenging interpretive trail. The interpretive trail provides rewarding views of a magnificent waterfall and the town of Canmore, alongside informative signs detailing the history of the trail's builder, Lawrence Grassi. Cliffs around the lakes are popular for climbers, and ancient pictographs can also be found.

Cost: Free, unless a Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for parking at the trailhead if not walking from town.

Transport: The trailhead is located close to downtown Canmore, about a 3-minute drive. It is a super accessible spot for visitors. A personal vehicle or taxi would be suitable for getting to the trailhead.

2. Cycling on the Legacy Trail or Bow River Loop

Canmore boasts an extensive network of well-maintained pathways suitable for all ages and skill levels. The Bow River Loop is an easy, flat, hard-pack trail offering scenic views of the Bow River and surrounding mountains. For a longer journey, the paved Legacy Trail connects Canmore to Banff, providing stunning mountain views along the Bow River.

Cost: Free, if bringing own bicycle. Bike rentals are available at the Canmore Nordic Centre, with prices varying.

Transport: The Bow River Loop is accessible from various points within the town center, including the Mineside Trailhead, which can be reached by walking or a short drive. The Legacy Trail starts directly from Canmore. Canmore's local buses contribute to easy navigation around town.

3. Caving in Rat's Nest Cave

Embark on a unique underground adventure exploring one of Canada's longest caves. This wild, undeveloped cave offers an immersive experience, crawling through tunnels, rappelling 60 feet (18 meters) into darkness, and observing ancient formations and pictographs. Optional 'squeezes' like the Laundry Chute provide an added challenge. The cave maintains a constant 5°C, making it a viable activity year-round, regardless of outside weather conditions.

Cost: Canmore Cave Tours offer an 'Explorer Tour' (4.5 hours) for approximately $149 per adult and $129 per youth (ages 10+), and an 'Adventure Tour' (6 hours) for approximately $199 per adult and $169 per youth (ages 12+). Equipment and guides are included.

Transport: Canmore Cave Tours has an office in downtown Canmore, approximately 10 minutes away from the cave. Transportation to the cave entrance is typically provided by the tour operator.

4. Wildlife Viewing on Spray Lakes Road or Policeman's Creek Trail

Canmore is a prime location for observing diverse wildlife. Driving along Spray Lakes Road, which ascends past the Canmore Nordic Centre, provides opportunities to spot coyotes, grizzly bears, cougars, bighorn sheep, elk, and moose. The best times for viewing are at sunrise or just before sunset when animals are most active. Closer to town, Policeman's Creek Trail is an easy walk in the heart of Canmore, ideal for birdwatching, with potential sightings of bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, beavers, and muskrats.

Cost: Free, unless participating in a guided wildlife tour. Guided tours focusing on wildlife, such as those offered by Canmore River Adventures (e.g., Bow River Wildlife Tour), provide deeper insights and a safe viewing experience.

Transport: Spray Lakes Road requires a personal vehicle to drive through. Policeman's Creek Trail is easily accessible by walking from downtown Canmore, with one popular access point being the 'Big Head' sculpture on Main Street.

5. Exploring Downtown Canmore and Art Galleries

The vibrant downtown core of Canmore offers a blend of local culture and charming experiences. Visitors can stroll along 8th Street (Main Street), especially when it becomes pedestrian-only during summer months, to explore local shops, diverse restaurants, and unique art galleries. Notable galleries include Carter-Ryan Gallery, showcasing Indigenous art and hosting live performances, Edge Gallery for contemporary local artwork, and Avens Gallery, featuring Western Canadian art.

Cost: Exploring downtown and visiting galleries is free, though purchases in shops and galleries, and dining at restaurants, will incur costs.

Transport: Downtown Canmore is highly walkable, with many attractions within easy reach.

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