Canmore- A small town nestled in the Canadian Rockies is the dream destination of outdoor enthusiasts. This mountain town offers plenty of things to the visitors such as great restaurants, hiking and biking trails, and stunning views. Certainly, it’s one of the most beautiful towns.
Here are the best things to do in Canmore…
Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk
Canmore is renowned for its beautiful walks with the Policeman’s Creek Trail being one of the most popular ones. If you want to spend a quiet time then head to Policeman creek Boardwalk. You can bask in the serene beauty of nature while walking down the 2km long Policeman’s Creek Trail which dives into the heart of downtown Canmore. If you wish to travel from one end of Canmore to another while bypassing the traffic, then this gravel-filled walk can serve you best. You can choose among multiple entry points for entering the Policeman Creek Boardwalk which connects with the town’s trail system.
Bike The Legacy Trail
The Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail was built in 2010 to commemorate Banff’s 125th birthday. This 26.8km long paved pathway connects Bow Valley Parkway in Banff and Canmore. Bikers frequent this recreational pathway between mid-April and October. During this time, the weather remains best suited for biking. Planning to get active while basking in the beautiful sunny weather? Hop on your cycle or strap on your rollerblades for diving into this Trans-Canada Highway.
Walk the Historic Railway Bridge
This iconic landmark of Canmore blends the best of natural beauty, historical significance and outdoor adventure. It was built back in 1891 primarily for coal transportation. Currently it serves the role of a pedestrian pathway on the Bow River Loop Trail and the Spur Line Trail. The celebrated bridge gained worldwide accolades after being featured in HBO’s The Last Of Us.
Fans of the show flock to relive the memories of their favorite show by walking through the Canmore Engine Bridge. We love walking through this picturesque bridge located at a 15-minute walk from Downtown Canmore.
Grotto Canyon
If you are up for a hike, then it’s cue to head out to Grotto Canyon in Canmore. Despite posing a steep challenge ahead of hikers, this is one of the top picks of those yearning an adrenaline rush. If you go on this hike then you will pass through steep lanes overlooking a pictographic background consisting of a magnificent waterfall. Easy access throughout the year makes it a hot favourite of both locals and visitors.
The trailhead to Grotto Canyon starts at the Grotto Mountain Day Use Area. Here you will find a picnic area right next to a beautiful pond with long drop toilets, picnic tables, and trash cans. You just need to follow a well-marked trail starting at the car parking spot for reaching the Grotto Canyon.
Grassi Lakes
Grassi Lakes is a popular trail among first time hikers coming to Canmore, Alberta. It offers breath-taking views of one waterfall and two glimmering lakes in a vibrant shade of turquoise. Close proximity to Canmore town opens up many options ahead of visitors who might head out to the town and explore its eateries.
The Grassi Lakes hike attracts a large number of visitors during weekends given its easy accessibility. Moreover, you will find clear markings all along the 2 km long hike which gains an elevation of 200 meters along the way. The trailhead can be reached by driving 5 kilometers from Downtown or through Roam Transit during summer months.
Quarry Lake
This man-made lake sits atop an old coal mine. It is located at a distance of just five minutes from Downtown Canmore and is fed by an underground mountain spring. If you are searching for an easily accessible spot to relax in Canmore, then Quarry Lake can serve as your best choice. On reaching the Quarry Lake, you can take a 15 minutes stroll around the picturesque spot while basking in ethereal mountain views.
Here you can spot the majestic Mount Lady MacDonald, Little Sister, Ha Ling Peak, and the Rundle Range. Quarry Lake has won global recognition as one of the best picnic spots in Canmore. There are plenty of picnic tables around the lake. Visitors often try stand-up paddle-boarding and kayaking in the Canadian Rockies.
Three Sisters Pathway
This 9 km trail is ideal for walkers, runners and cyclists. You can enjoy the beauty of the meandering Bow River while walking through the pathway. The trail passes several meadows, creeks, and forests along the river. Along the way you will come across a fenced-off entrance to old coal mines standing as a glorious symbol of Canmore’s legacy. There are chances of spotting wildlife along the trail. Always keep a safe distance from the wildlife.
See the Giant Head in Canmore
Canmore is not only known for its natural beauty but it is known as home to several fascinating public art installations. Among these art installations, one of the most eye-catching art is the Big Head Sculpture in Canmore. Undoubtedly, this giant artwork has become a curiosity for visitors and a popular stop for taking pictures. Let’s check out what the Big Head Sculpture is, where to find it and why it deserves to be a spot on your Canmore itinerary.
Grab a Beer at the Brewery
The Grizzly Paw located at 310 Old Canmore Road has quickly became a landmark destination for locals and the tourists. The drinks and food at The Grizzly Pub are great. The brewery currently produces craft beer and soda and offers interactive tours. If you’re open for a couple of more beers, then try Sheepdog Brewing. Sheepdog Brewing is located at the end of Leben’s Run. Their main floor taproom and patio are 100% dog-friendly so you can take your furry friends along.
Wander the Main Street
You will find boutique cafes, shops, art galleries and great restaurants at the Main street, Canmore. Downtown Canmore is much quieter than Banff. During summers Main Street turns into a pedestrian and cyclist zone only from 6 Avenue to 8 Avenue! You will find everyone enjoying walking the street. This street is perfect to buy some souvenirs and locally-made goods. Main Street is a very scenic street as you get to enjoy the mountain views everywhere.
Visit local distilleries of Canmore
We all know that Canmore has a fair share of distilleries, but did you know that Canmore has 2 distilleries as well. You can buy locally made spirits here. Wild Life Distillery has become popular amongst the locals because of their premium spirits. You can easily find their spirits in liquor stores around the province, or you can directly buy from their storefront. From the past 8 years they have offered a dozen different menus showcasing innovative cocktails.
Blake Brewhouse and Distillery is located right in the heart of Canmore at 810 Bow Valley Trail. This place is a restaurant and brewery and distillery all in one and they have a full food menu which is delicious. There is a huge outdoor seating area with stunning mountain views.
Keep your eye out for Wildlife
There are a lot of chances to spot wildlife in the Canadian Rockies. There are plenty of elk in Canmore, and they often like to hang out in town. On rare occasions, a black bear might make an appearance. Keep your eyes open when visiting and always make sure to keep a safe distance. Don’t forget to carry bear spray when travelling the Canadian Rockies.
Visit the Canmore Hoodoos
Yes. Canmore has its own hoodoos that you can actually see right from the highway. For a better view you can drive upto the Benchlands Terrace and park your car on the street. Once you park the car you will see the trail and hoodoos. From here you can enjoy the view of the whole town which is awesome. Also, you will find the residents walking and biking here.
Hike Ha Ling Peak
Another impossible thing to miss when you visit Canmore is hiking Ha Ling Peak- one of the most popular hikes. Ha Ling is open year-round, but always check the weather conditions especially in winter and spring. Alberta Parks has revamped the trail adding steps, informational signs, viewpoints, which has increased its popularity even more.
Eat good food
Although its a small town, there is no shortage of amazing places to eat. We have listed few of our places here:-
Rocky Mountain Bagel Co.
Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. is the best place to grab a breakfast. Whenever we crave for fresh bagels this is our go to place. They have a huge selection of bagels. There are 2 locations in Canmore; one is on 8 Street and the other is on Railway Ave. You can also buy the bagels to have later.
The Drake
With endless panoramic mountain views and a vibrant nightlife, The Drake is one of the cheap places that serves delicious food. The best time to visit is during happy hours Sunday to Friday from 3 pm to 6pm. They also have a huge outdoor patio.
Tavern 1883
Tavern 1883 is a family-friendly restaurant and bar that serves food and drinks. It’s a perfect place for a family meal, business meets, date nights or to watch the game with friends. There is also live music on the weekends and they also have happy hour for great deals on drinks and appetizers.
SUP on the Canmore Reservoir
There is a wide selection of water activities for visitors and locals in the area. The reservoir above the town offers stunning mountain views which makes it a perfect spot for photographers. On a hot summer day, stand-up paddleboarding is the best thing to do. Boat rentals are available at Canmore Reservoir.
Morning Coffee in Canmore
Looking for a coffee, don’t worry! There are some great coffee shops in Canmore such as Good Earth Coffee, Comunitea, Eclipse Coffee Roasters. Whether you are visiting Canmore or just passing by while visiting Banff there are a lot of options to have good coffee.
Canmore Museum and Geoscience Center
If you have interest in the history and landscapes then head to the Museum. The Museum and Gift Shop are open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm; on Mondays & Tuesdays the Museum is closed to the general public. The most popular exhibit here is ‘From Coal to Community,’ which highlights about native people, the development of the railway system.
Canmore Nordic Center
Canmore Nordic Centre is located just minutes from downtown Canmore which is open daily from 9:00am-5:30pm. Nordic Centre’s Day Lodge offers all the information, ski pass sales, and a warm spot by the fire to meet up with friends. You can enjoy good food at the Cornerstone Cafe. The Canmore Nordic Centre offers World-class cross country skiing in the winter with over 60 km of well groomed trail and 6.5 km of trail with lights set up for night skiing until 9:00pm daily. With over 100 km of trail, the Canmore Nordic Centre is recognized as one of the top mountain biking centres in North America.Â
Ride in a Helicopter
Are you ready for an epic adventure during your visit to Canmore? A helicopter ride will add extra fun. Taking a helicopter ride is an amazing way to experience the mountains. Alpine helicopters provide a variety of tours of surrounding mountain views. Although this is a lifetime experience but it’s not cheap. Tour starts at around $290 CAD per person and goes upto $725 for a 55-minute tour.Â
