Canmore is a resort town located in the Canadian province of Alberta. It is situated about 20 minutes outside of Banff. It is located within the Bow Valley and offers amazing views of the Canadian Rockies from every possible part of the city. If you are looking for the best things to do in Canmore Canada, we got you covered. This article gives you a quick guide to Canmore activities.
Much of the Canmore area has been designated a wildlife corridor that allows animals such as bears, cougar, wolves, and elk to move between habitat patches. Living so close to Canmore allows me to make this place my go-to location for quick weekend getaways.

Canmore is also my favorite as its a pedestrian-friendly town. The town centre or the “Main Street”, which was a residential road before has some of the oldest architecture in town. Now you can find the main street lined with amazing shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries.
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Guide to Canmore Activities: Things to do in Canmore Canada
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Travel Tips Canmore
Nearest Airport: Calgary International Airport is closest to Canmore. From Calgary, Canmore is about 1 hour 10 minutes by car or airport shuttle. It is located 20 minutes from the Banff National Park.
Where to stay: Being a resort town, there is a lot of accommodation options in Canmore. You can book a motel, hotel or hostel. They range from CAD$ 79-350. During peak seasons, its advisable to either plan ahead or plan to stay in Calgary or Kananaskis country.
Best Time to Visit Canmore: The best time to visit Canmore is from June to August and December to March. If you love nature and love to spend time outdoors – camping or by the lakeside, visit Canmore when the weather is warm and welcoming. (Consider the Canmore hotel rates, when booking during peak seasons). If you love to ski and enjoy playing with snow, visit Canmore in winter, when it’s very beautiful too.
Good to Know: You have access to amazing views of the Canadian Rockies, from any part of the town – from a fast-food chain to a hotel balcony to any parking lot and I think this makes Canmore very special.
Also, you don’t pay any park fees to visit through or stay in Canmore (you can thank me later :)).
Popular Canmore activities include horse riding, rafting, hiking, fishing, rock-climbing, canoeing, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, bird- watching, windsurfing, and of course camping.
Places to visit in Canmore Activities List
The Three Sisters

The Three Sisters is the name given to a range of mountain peaks in Canmore, Alberta. The mountain range has 3 peaks and hence the name “three sisters”. The 3 peaks are individually marked for – Faith (Big Sister), Charity (Middle Sister), and Hope (Little Sister). They are stunning to look at and can be viewed from most parts of the town.
Big Head Sculpture

Located on the 8th Street, at the North East side of the bridge over Policeman’s Creek, you will find this striking sculpture of a human head, half-buried and in deep thought. This sculpture is called the Big Head.
The name Bog Head is a variation of the town’s name, Canmore. The Town’s name originated from its namesake town in Scotland (called the Ceannmore, meaning “Big Head” in Celtic).
Grassi Lakes Hike Trail
One of the stunning hikes in Canmore is the Upper Grassi Lakes trail and the Grassi lakes trail loop. It is a 3.2 kilometres trail and is great for hikers of all levels. During summers the waters are turquoise blue and it is stunning. During winters, certain areas of the trail are still accessible and can be used for hiking.
Children can be taken on strollers and dogs are allowed (on lease). The Grassi Lakes is also a popular rock climbing area.
Policeman’s Creek – Easy Hikes Canmore

One of my favorite spots in the city!
The Policeman’s Creek is a short hiking trail located very close to the main street of Canmore. There is a wooden boardwalk that runs through the creek, connecting the main road to a residential block. It’s a beautiful spot and you can photograph amazing shots of the Canadian Rockies.
The Policeman’s Creek is located by the Northwest Mounted Police (NWMP) Barracks.
The NWMP Barracks was built-in 1893 and was served until 1929 as the lodgings, office, and jail for the police officers of Canmore. The Barracks was declared an Alberta Provincial Historic Resource in 1990. It is the oldest NWMP site in Western Canada to still stand on its original location. This historic resource is open all year round.
Grotto Mountain Winter Hike
If you are visiting Canmore in winters, consider taking a hiking tour with a guide to the Grotto Mountains. These tours are for 4-5 hours and they start from Canmore. A guide takes you, trekking on snow-covered surfaces and you can explore icefalls and rock formations along the way, as you arrive at the Grotto Mountains.
The hike is not difficult. You will have to come prepared with warm clothing and sturdy shoes. Book here for your Winter Hike tour for the Grotto Mountains
More Canmore Hiking Trails
Canmore maintains over 70 kilometers of the trail network. It is really a paradise for trail lovers – with easy to difficult levels, all accessible within the town’s boundaries.
Some of the popular trails include
- Canmore Trail Network.
- Benchlands Ridge Trail And Hoodoos.
- Three Sisters Pathway.
- Bow River Loop.
- Larch Islands Interpretative Trail.
- Benchlands Ridge Trail And Hoodoos.
- Three Sisters Pathway.
- Grassi Lakes Hiking Trail.
- Grotto Canyon Hiking Trail.
- Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk (easy & one of my favorites)
Read More Canmore Trails
Camping at Bow Valley Provincial Park
Just 30 kilometres east of the town-site of Canmore, is the largest campground of the Bow Valley Provincial Park. The park was established in 1959 in the arch of Bow River, at the confluence with Kananaskis River.

Canmore Cave Tours
A great way to spend time in Canmore is by taking a cave tour in Rat’s Nest Cave. Rat’s Nest Cave is a wild undeveloped cave near Canmore. It is located under the Grotto Mountain.
The Canmore Cave tours are unique as these are natural history tours. You will be provided with equipment and guidance to explore, crawl, embrace, and slide your way throughout the cave. Although it is not for everybody, the cave tours are dark, dirty, small, but it is definitely an experience for a lifetime.
Find out more about Canmore Cave Tours and book them here. These tours can be taken all year round. Equipment rentals are provided.
Skiing & Snowboarding at Canmore Nordic Centre

If you love to ski, the Nordic Centre is the place for you. Located immediately west of Canmore – the Nordic Centre was the host of the 1988 Winter Olympic games. Currently, the park offers a wide variety of recreational activities including cross country skiing, biking, hiking, disk golf, and orienteering.
It also hosts regional, national, and international events all year round.
Other Canmore Activities
Elevation Place
Elevation Place is an indoor activity centre. The centre has swimming pools, gym, steam room, climbing area, and many learning activities for kids.
Canmore Civic Centre
Located in the heart of Canmore, on 7th avenue, the Canmore Civic Centre is a two-story facility that houses the town Municipal offices and the Canmore Museum and Geo-Science Centre. The Canmore visitor centre is also located nearby.
Wild Life Distillery
A visit to this distillery is a must in Canmore Alberta. The owners craft amazing spirits and offer great client service. Learn more about WildLife Distillery here.

Food & Restaurants in Canmore AB
Canmore promises you amazing food and beautiful views. That’s why it’s one of my favorite weekend getaways. The downtown area has tons of restaurants, bars, and cafes. Let me start with my favorites:
- Spice Hut – Located in the Ramada Hotel complex, Spice Hut is an East -Indian restaurant. I love their delicious Chicken Masala and rice. Give it a try!
- JK Bakery Cafe – Started by a German man and now locally owned by 3 operators, they serve the best-baked items – cakes, pastries, samosas, sweet pies, and also artisan bread. I love their creamy earl grey (black) tea. If you sit outside the café, you can see amazing views of the Rockies. That is why this is my go-to Canmore Breakfast place.
- The Rocky Mountain Bagel Co – The RM Bagel Co is located on 1306 Bow Valley Trail. If you love bagels, they can find a lot of varieties here.
- Good Earth Café – Another coffee joint – but it deserves a mention because of its lattes and sandwiches!
- Aroma Mexican Café – The interior of this café, takes you to the beaches to Tulum. Well, at least their shack does. Authentic Mexican food and Jarritos to go, you can also try-on their hats and blankets and click some interesting photos!
- The Wood Lounge – The Wood Lounge and Restaurant offers great draft selection, beef, and beautiful patio views.
- Grizzly Paw Restaurant – A pub, restaurant, and a micro-brewery
Lodging in Canmore Alberta
Canmore has incredible accommodation options and they come with incredible views. You can find budget hotel options like Ramada hotel (CAD $79 average/night) or luxury stay like Falcon Crest Lodge & Solara Resort & Spa (CAD$155-390+)

This picture was taken during my stay at the Falcon Crest Lodge. You can indulge in a hot tub or book a spa with amazing mountain backdrops.
There are motels and resorts located by the Bow Valley Trail area as well as the Kananaskis Way. Of course, look for balcony views, if possible. Most resorts have a fireplace, pool, and/or hot tub.
If you find a hard time booking accommodation during the peak seasons, you can always stay in Calgary, another popular Canadian city, and its located just an hour or so away from Canmore/Banff. The extra drive is worth it because sometimes you might sight some wildlife or Northern lights greeting you!
Here are some of the Hotel Recommendations for the town of Canmore –
- Falcon Crest Lodge – This is our absolute favorite. We have stayed here 3 times already because the views from their balconies are just amazing!
- Also, rated the #1 hotel to stay in Canmore
- Their rooms are spacious and very clean
- Hot tub/pool available in the hotel property
- The VIEWS are amazing as you can see. Three Sisters in all its glory can be seen from their bedroom windows – imaging waking up to this every morning! (Oh, can I just move here?)
- Book your hotel stay here

- Canmore Inn and Suites – Located in the heart of Canmore, this hotel is a great budget option.
- Close to the restaurants and convenience stores.
- You can see amazing views of the mountains from the hotel as well. Canmore is that awesome!
- Book your stay here
- Quality Resort Chateau – The interiors of this hotel are very fascinating!
- Clean and spacious room, some with fireplaces
- Love their bar and restaurant
- Lots of activities nearby including golf, skiing, etc
- Book your stay here
- Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference – One of my favorite hotels in Canmore – Coast Canmore takes you into a different place like an oasis
- Love their patio and garden. They have a bar and restaurant in the hotel property.
- Their rooms are “state of the art” kind, with modern paintings. AND their washrooms gorgeous with beautiful bathtubs for that relaxing weekend!
- Only 6 km to the Nordic Provincial Centre
- Book your night here
We recommend using Booking.com to find accommodation. It is our favorite hotel website for quickly comparing the prices of multiple hotel booking sites at once.
Search for Hotels in Canmore Canada
Additional Information
Due to its amazing views, a pedestrian-friendly place, and its laid-back environment, Canmore is one of my favorite places on earth. If you are in town, next time, look for their events calendar Canmore Events and Activities
Here are some helpful posts for planning your trip to the Canadian Rockies.
- The Canadian Rockies Travel Tips here
- Guide to Jasper Itinerary Attractions here
- Guide to Banff Itinerary here
- Banff National Park Hotels Guide
- Calgary City Guide here
- Calgary Downtown Guide here
- Edmonton Winter Activities Guide
Pin for Later – Guide to the town of Canmore – Things to do in Canmore Canada

Amy says
Wow it is so picturesque! Looks like a beautiful place to visit, and I’d never heard of it. Thanks for sharing.
Mayuri says
Thank you Amy. I am glad you enjoyed the post, its a beautiful place. If you love mountains, you will love this place
Elizabeth Akinyi says
I really enjoyed this blog post! I will definitely add this place to my bucket list! Love the blog, keep up the good work! The photos are so cute!
~Elizabeth Akinyi
Mayuri says
Hi Elizabeth, thank you so much. Glad you found this post helpful
Katherine says
You weren’t kidding about it being surrounded by the Rockies. There’s a beautiful view at every turn it seems. Australia has a Three Sisters rock formation as well. I don’t know why I thought it was the only one in the world. Turns out it was the only one that I knew of 😉
Mayuri says
Right? I have been to so many towns within the National Park area and even to their sister towns, but you cant beat Canmore
Even views from a fast food chain or Grocery store on Main Street are gorgeous!
Canada has a “3 sisters” too, just like Australia. I heard about the Australia’s one, but never visited.
Erin says
So pretty! I never make it to snowy places like this, it looks like a winter wonderland with all that snow. I’ve always been a desert girl but I’ve been dying to explore Canada lately! Thanks for the inspiration 🙂
Mayuri says
You are welcome Erin. So glad that you found inspiration for winter exploration from this post. I am sure you will enjoy a snow capped scenery, with a hot cocoa in hand and/or engage in winter sports 🙂
Chloe says
Beautiful place! And for some strange reason, I really like the Big Head sculpture.
Mayuri says
Thank you! Yea the Big Head is scultpure is actually very unique. The history of the town’s name and its connection to a Scottish town is also fascinating!
Michelle says
Thanks for this! On our Canada Trip we are planning to see this place right before we go to Glacier National Park! Love all of your pictures and it is getting me so excited for this summer!!!!! 😀
Mayuri says
Yay!!!! Cant for your trip to begin – so exciting!
Mohana says
So picturesque! I love your photographs. The snow adds such wonderment to landscapes.
Mayuri says
Thanks so much Mohana! These snow capped mountains are to die for!
Michelle says
We’re hoping to go this year so this will come in handy. Thanks for the tips!
Mayuri says
Thats great. I am sure you will have a wonderful trip!
Christina says
Ahh as a BC girl, I can’t believe I’ve never been to Canmore! Your photos are gorgeous and I’m dying to do some of those hikes. Amazing post 🙂
Mayuri says
I am so glad you loved my pictures Christina! Hope you can visit sometime soon! Love
daniele says
Very interesting landscapes in here. I love all your shots, you are so good at this. Congrats 🙂 The tips in your post could be very helpful in planning a trip there.
Mayuri says
Thank you so much! So glad you found this useful! Happy Planning!
Danijela says
Oh, how lovely! Your photos are great. Love the fact that Canmore is not that far from the airport and that is pedestrian friendly. I’d enjoy all the walks. And would probably fall in love with the view of that Policeman Creek. 🙂
It must be great to live close by, so that it can get to be a weekend getaway. Thanks for the info, this was the first time I’ve heard about the place. 🙂
Mayuri says
Its my go-to place for a quick fix or a weekend trip. I am happy that you enjoyed the pictures.
eli says
I was in Banff a couple of months ago and really wish I had time to check out Canmore! That whole area is so stunning
Mayuri says
I hope you had a great time in Banff. If you missed Canmore, it just means you have to re-visit 🙂
Pujarini says
I had never heard of this place before but from your photos, I would love to visit someday. Thanks for sharing.
Mayuri says
Thanks so much. I am so glad I was able to introduce you to Canmore. Its so so picturesque, definitely add to your bucketlist.
Wandering life - Catarina Leonardo says
Great place to visit for winter and snow lovers 😉 I never heard about this place, but it really seems perfect to spent same days.
Mayuri says
You will fall in love!
Sarah - Borders & Bucket Lists says
Wow Canmore looks stunning! I feel like Canada is just filled with a ton of hidden gems and I need to just drive around the country for six months to see even a fraction of it lol.
Mayuri says
Road trips are a great way to explore Canada – eastern side just as pretty as the western side. But Canadian Rockies will melt your heart – a must visit!
Madhu says
Wow bowled over with the beauty of canmore.feels like visiting it now only. I will surely plan a visit to cannada soon.thanks for sharing
Mayuri says
Oh you are welcome! Hope you get to visit soon! <3
Kimmie Conner says
I had never heard of this place, but now it’s totally on my list! It looks absolutely stunning – can’t wait to finally make it up to that part of Canada.
Mayuri says
Yay! Glad to know that!
Corinne Simpson says
I’d absolutely love to go to Alberta one day. This looks like such a cute town and so much to do in the area. Great photos too – mountains are my favourite things to photograph.
Mayuri says
Thank you. Definitely Alberta is worth a visit
Danie says
i’m trying to convince my friend to go on our annual road trip to Banff. Fingers crossed this convinces her!
Mayuri says
I hope so you do! It will be EPIC!
Brittany says
This place is gorgeous! And the resorts aren’t a bad price per night! Going to add this to my next Canada trip!
Mayuri says
Yea, it is very affordable! Perfect for slow traveling as well!
Andrea says
It looks so peaceful. Thanks for sharing!
Mayuri says
<3
Juli says
This place looks super cute. I didn’t know it existed before this post, but now I kind of want to go.
Mayuri says
It is beautiful! You should visit <3
Kathleen says
Wow! So gorgeous! I want to go to Banff and I think this would be a great trip to add to it. JK Bakery Cafe sounds like a perfect place for lunch. I can’t get over the photos. I’m sure it’s even better in person.
Mayuri says
Thank you so much for your comment! Canmore is definitely more beautiful in person. Hope you do visit here on your next trip!
Hardy Bains says
A very useful article to read. Thanks a lot for sharing this. Fine work. Keep it up.
Mayuri says
Thanks so much. Glad you liked it