Alberta

Exploring Canmore: Your Ultimate Guide to Adventure

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Canmore is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures. From leisurely walks to challenging hikes, this charming mountain town offers something for everyone. Here’s your comprehensive guide to exploring Canmore and its surrounding areas.

Easy Walks/Hikes

Bow River Loop

• Distance: 2km loop
• Duration: 25 minutes
• Starting Point: Downtown Canmore or Rundle Drive bridge
• Highlights: Follows the scenic Bow River with views of the iconic Three Sisters mountains.

Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk

• Distance: 1-3km
• Duration: Variable
• Starting Point: Town of Canmore
• Highlights: A picturesque stroll along a wooden boardwalk with opportunities for stunning photography, especially of the Three Sisters.

Three Sisters Pathway

• Distance: 6.7km (one way)
• Duration: 70 minutes (one way)
• Starting Point: Rundle Drive bridge parking lot
• Highlights: Offers scenic views of the Bow River and meanders through open meadows with glimpses of an old mining site.

Tunnel Mountain Trail (Banff)

• Distance: 4.3km (round trip)
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Highlights: Spectacular views of Banff and the surrounding valley from the summit.

Hoodoo Trail (Banff)

• Recommendation: Lisa
• Details: Not specified

Two Jack Lake

• Distance: 3.2km
• Duration: Not specified
• Highlights: Easy access for winter activities such as snowshoeing, with stunning views of Mount Rundle.

Moderate Walks/Hikes

Grassi Lakes Trail

• Distance: 3.8km (return)
• Duration: 2 hours
• Starting Point: Spray Lakes Road
• Highlights: Twin turquoise-colored lakes and a waterfall along the trail.

Read’s Tower

• Distance: 6km (loop)
• Duration: 4 hours
• Highlights: Panoramic views of Spray Lakes Reservoir, with the option to continue to Sparrowhawk Mountain summit.

Chester Lake, Kananaskis

• Distance: 9.2km (round trip)
• Duration: 4-5 hours
• Highlights: Scenic lake surrounded by stunning mountain views, popular for winter activities.

Ha Ling Peak

• Distance: 7km
• Duration: 3.5 – 5 hours
• Highlights: Steep hike with spectacular views from the summit.

Rawson Lake

• Distance: 8km (return)
• Duration: Not specified
• Starting Point: Upper Kananaskis Lake parking lot
• Highlights: Fall/winter trail with great views, especially recommended for snowshoeing.

Beyond Canmore

Emerald Lake at Yoho National Park, BC

• Distance: Not specified
• Duration: Not specified
• Highlights: Stunning reflections in the water and a peaceful atmosphere.

Marble Canyon, Kootenay National Park, BC

• Distance: 1.6km (return)
• Duration: Not specified
• Highlights: Turquoise waters and unique limestone canyon formations.

Top Photography Spots

• Wedge Pond (Views of Mt Kidd)
• East End of Rundle + Ha Ling Peak
• Spray Lake Reservoir
• The Three Sisters (best perspective is from Policeman Creek)
• Elbow Lake
• Vermillion Lakes

Where to Eat/Drink

Canmore:

• Canmore Brewing Co
• The Grizzly Paw Pub and Brewery
• Wildlife Distillery
• Where the Buffalo Roam Saloon
• Communitea
• Crazy Weed Kitchen
• Toniq Bar
• Four Two Nine Six
• The Iron Goat
• JK Bakery Cafe
• Good Earth Cafe
• The Wood Lounge
• Murieta’s
• WIT Bar
• Rocky Mountain Bagel Co
• Mountain Mercato

Banff:

• The Radiant
• Seed N Salt
• Nourish Bistro

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, Canmore and its surroundings offer endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty. Lace up your boots, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the magic of this mountain paradise!