Planning to visit Canmore with family and wondering about nice and easy walks?? There are plenty of options to choose from. Almost all of them provide amazing views of the surrounding mountain peaks like the Three Sisters, Mount Rundle, or Ha Ling Peak.
Let’s take a look at easy and family friendly walks in Canmore…
Canmore Engine Bridge
The Canmore Engine Bridge is an iconic landmark that highlights history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. This famous spot was constructed in 1891 and has gained popularity since The Last of Us show. You can see many shots shown in one episode that was shot in Canmore. While walking on this bridge you will be mesmerized by the stunning views of Mount Rundle and Ha Ling Peak.
This bridge is stroller, kid friendly and is also accessible by elderly people. You can even enjoy fishing here. There are a lot of benches where you can have a picnic with your family. It is completely free to visit the Canmore Engine Bridge and is one of the most photogenic spots in Canmore.
Bow River Loop
Another super easy and quick walk in the town of Canmore is Bow River Loop. This pleasant circular loop is ideal for all age groups. It is a scenic 2km loop around the Bow river that can be easily done year round. The Bow river loop trail is a casual walking trail with a slight elevation gain of 54m. This entire loop follows a gravel path along the Bow River and two pedestrian bridges.
The first bridge is at the end of 8th Avenue and the second bridge is the Engine Bridge. Additionally, there are plenty of park benches along the river’s edge on the trail to take some rest and enjoy the natural views. As Canmore is surrounded by thickly forested areas, there are many protected wildlife corridors around the town. It is advisable to carry bear spray while hiking or walking in the Canadian Rockies.
Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk
This short walk offers beautiful views of Policeman’s Creek wetland ecosystem, and offers great photo opportunities in all directions. It is accessible all year round and you can enter the Policeman’s Creek Trail from multiple points. The intersection near the Spring Creek Drive and Main Street is the most popular one. This is at the exact opposite of the Big Head sculpture. You will see ducks swimming on the ponds, birds singing, and if you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of an elk or deer. There is no elevation gain and is stroller friendly. There are also a few benches along the trail if you need a break.
Three Sisters Viewpoint
Although it is impossible to miss the Three Sisters when you visit Canmore. However, Three Sisters viewpoint trail is the best option in the town of Canmore with rewarding views at the end. It is just a 5 minutes walk from the parking lot to the photo point. It is a very popular spot among the photographers. As this is not the official trail there are no markings, you can park at the town’s off-leash dog park near the helipad on the Bow Valley Trail. You will find a pathway under the train tracks that leads to the photo point in about five minutes.
Benchlands Ridge Trail and Hoodoos
This is an easy hike right in Canmore with a gradual incline up to a viewpoint overlooking the valley. Although this hike technically starts from downtown Canmore however, this requires a lot of walking up to the cougar Creek. Keep following the path along Benchlands Trail and take the left to climb up a path until you are on a ridge overlooking Canmore. You will get amazing views of the town! However, there is an easy alternative as well, you can park at either Cougar Creek or the Benchlands Trail Bike Park. Once you park the car you will see the trail and hoodoos. Also, you will find the residents walking and biking here.
Quarry Lake
A super popular spot in Canmore amongst the locals is Quarry Lake. It is located at a distance of just five minutes from Downtown Canmore and is close to an off-leash dog park. The small lake has a nice loop you can walk around enjoying the surrounding mountains. There are plenty of trails that extend out from the Quarry Lake. Keep in mind there is a $20 fee for 4-hour parking so, plan your visit accordingly.
On the calm days, the lake offers stunning mountain reflections that are perfect for getting excellent photos. Quarry Lake Loop is accessible all year round. During the summer months you can bring a swimsuit and take advantage of the swimming opportunities. In the winter months, although the lake looks frozen, it is not. Do not walk on the Lake, since it never fully freezes.
Continue reading about easy and family friendly walks in Canmore…
Rundle Forebay Reservoir Walkway
The Canmore Reservoir is just 5km away from Downtown along the Smith Dorrien Road. It is another popular Canmore hike which is also known as Canmore Reservoir. During the summer, this is a great choice for relaxing, canoeing, kayaking or swimming. You can easily walk upto the lake and soak in the beautiful surrounding mountains peaks such as Ha Ling Peak, Little Sister and Mount Rundle. Keep in mind, there is not much for parking at the Canmore Reservoir, and especially on a busy summer day, lot fills up very quickly. It is free to visit the reservoir and there are no facilities at all.
Grassi Lakes
Undoubtedly, Grassi lakes hike is the most popular Canmore hike. This easy trail starts from the parking lot just on the outskirts of Canmore. Parking is free but you will need Kananaskis Conservation Pass to hike Grassi Lakes. There are two different trails to reach the beautiful Grassi Lakes. One of the trails is easy and the other one is comparatively hard. During the summers, the trail is usually very busy. During our last hike in the month of September, there were a lot of families on the trail. The hike is considered an easy hike that can be suitable for all age groups. You can bring your furry friends along.
You can easily reach Grassi Lakes in about 30-40 minutes depending on your speed and fitness levels. Once you reach the top there are two lakes, multiple streams, bridges, and benches to enjoy the views. You get to enjoy the amazing views of the town of Canmore. It is not allowed to swim in the Grassi Lakes as it is a protected body of water.
Larch Island Interpretive Trail
If you are looking for an easy and relaxed walk, take a wander around Larch Island Interpretive Walking trail. It’s one of the best Canmore walks for people of all abilities. The trail is at the north end of Canmore, on the eastern bank of the Bow River. There is a small wooden bridge along the Bow River Trail close to the end of 16th Street, this is the best starting point. During the fall season, when the larch trees turn gold it is certainly a treat for the eyes. Summer is the best time to admire the wildflowers and birds. Also, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife on this loop.
Grotto Canyon
If you’re looking for an easy hike that is good year-round, then the best option is Grotto Canyon. During the summer months, families enjoy the narrow canyon and climbers enjoy the wall climbing. Whereas in the winter, you can enjoy the frozen creek and waterfalls. Honestly, it’s very hard to choose the best season. Grotto Canyon is an easy hike with minimal elevation gain and is suitable for all age groups. This hike can be easily completed in under two hours. This trailhead is located about 10 minutes outside of Canmore town near Exshaw.Â
