MichelleCanmore is a small mountain town in Alberta, Canada. It’s close to Banff and just over an hour’s drive from Calgary. Many people love visiting Canmore because of the beautiful mountains, hiking trails, cool art, and fun places to eat.
Things to Know Before You Visit Canmore
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Canmore has different weather in every season. Summer is warm and sunny, which is great for hiking and walking. Fall is cooler, with pretty yellow trees. Winter brings snow and is perfect for skiing. Spring is a little muddy but not too crowded.
The weather in the mountains changes fast. It can be sunny in the morning and rainy in the afternoon. So, wear layers. Bring a light jacket, sweater, and comfy shoes.
What to Pack for a Day Trip
Sturdy hiking boots with strong ankle support
Remember to bring water bottle to stay hydrated!
Park Passes and Fees
Good news! You don’t need a park pass just to visit Canmore. It’s outside Banff National Park and exempted from Kananaskis Conservation Pass. But if you’re also going to Banff or Kananaskis, you’ll need a pass for those places.
Most parking in Canmore is free, but some spots near the town center cost money. Watch for signs or download the town’s parking app.
Kananaskis Conservation Pass
Kananaskis Conservation Pass is compulsory visiting Kananaskis Country. You can purchase online beforehand, or purchase the pass when you visit Kananaskis.
You can be warned or even be fined if you did not purchase Kananaskis Conservation Pass when visiting Kananaskis.
Day Trip Itinerary
Morning Hike: Grassi Lakes
- Trail Length: 4 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: ~125 meters
- Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy (Easy Route), Moderate (Scenic Route)
- Trailhead: Grassi Lakes Trailhead
Grassi Lakes is one of the most popular hikes near Canmore. It’s only a short drive from the town. The hike is fun and not too hard.
There are two trails you can take. One is easy and follows a wide gravel path. The other is steeper but has better views and even a waterfall. Both trails take you to the same place.
At the top, you’ll see two small lakes with bright blue water.
You’ll also see cool cliffs and views of Canmore below. It’s a great place to take photos or just sit and enjoy nature.
Mid-morning Explorations: Big Head & Policeman Creek Trail
After hiking, head back into town and park at a free parking spot outside Downtown.
Let’s go and check out the Big Head statue. It’s a giant sculpture of a head lying on its side. It’s strange but also kind of cool.
Lots of people take photos with it. You’ll find it near Main Street at 8th Street and 6th Avenue. It’s a fun and quick stop.
Next, walk over to the Policeman Creek Boardwalk. It’s a wooden path that goes through trees and small wetlands. The trail is flat and easy to walk.
You might see ducks, birds, and even deer. The walk is peaceful and takes about 30 minutes or you can head back anytime you want. It’s a nice way to relax before lunch.
Lunch: The Grizzly Paw Pub
Address: 622 8 St, Canmore, AB T1W 2B5
Time to eat! The Grizzly Paw Pub is one of the best places to eat in Canmore. It’s right on Main Street and has tasty food. You can try burgers, fries, tacos, and more.
If you’re feeling extra hungry, order poutine. It’s a Canadian dish with fries, cheese curds, and gravy. It’s super yummy!
Exploring Canmore’s Main Street
After lunch, take a walk along Main Street. This area is full of cool little shops. It’s fun just to look around, even if you’re not buying anything.
Stonewaters and The Tin Box are two fun gift stores with all kinds of neat stuff. Stonewaters sells furniture, art, and cozy mountain-style things, while The Tin Box has funny mugs, games, cards, and home decorations. They are a great place to find something unique.
Canmore has a big art scene. As you walk along Main Street, you’ll see art galleries and small studios. Local artists sell paintings, photos, and handmade jewelry.
Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s fun to look at the colorful art and enjoy the creative vibes.
Afternoon Walk: Bow River Loop
At the end of Main Street, you can continue to go straight to reach Bow River Loop.
You can see the stunning view of snow-capped mountains in Kananaskis, with a pedestrian bridge on your left.
Go right to continue the Bow River Loop for 5-10 minutes.
You will finally reach the Engine Bridge. The view of Engine Bridge together with Bow River and snow-capped mountains is amazing!
Hidden Gem: Three Sisters Secret Viewpoint
Before the end of the day trip, visit the Three Sisters Secret Viewpoint in Canmore. It’s stunning!
You won’t be able to find the exact viewpoint from the map. Instead, put Canmore Off Leash Dog Area on Google Maps and parked your car there.
There’s a tunnel right next to the parking lot. Pass through the tunnel, and continue to walk along the gravel trail for around 5 minutes to reach Three Sisters Viewpoint.
Water reflection of Three Sisters Mountain is amazing!
How to get to Canmore?
Driving from Calgary
Canmore is easy to reach by car. From Calgary, just take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) west. The drive takes about 1 hour.
The road is smooth and has great mountain views. It’s a fun road trip and a good way to start your adventure.
There are gas stations and rest stops along the way if you need a break.
Public Transit and Tours
If you don’t have a car, don’t worry! You can take a bus from Calgary to Canmore. Look for the On-It Regional Transit buses, they’re cheap and comfy.
There are also day tours that go to Canmore. These tours usually include transport, a guide, and stops at fun places.
Using public transit is a great choice if you want to relax and not worry about driving.
There are no public buses to Kananaskis, so driving or renting a car is definitely the best option. You can travel at your own pace, and visit anywhere you wish to go.
How to get to Canmore?
Walking and Biking
Canmore is a walkable town. Most of the shops, trails, and restaurants are close together. You can walk from one end of Main Street to the other in about 10 minutes.
There are also bike trails all over the town. You can bring your own bike or rent one from a shop in Canmore.
It’s a fun way to explore and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Local Transit and Rentals
Canmore has local buses if you need to go a bit farther. The buses are easy to use and not very expensive.
You can also rent e-bikes or scooters in town. These are great if you want to go faster or visit places just outside the town center.
No matter how you get around, Canmore is safe and friendly. Just remember to watch for wildlife and follow the trail signs.
Where to stay?
If you want to stay overnight, Canmore would be a good location for this day trip.
The Malcolm Hotel
Address: 321 Spring Creek Dr, Canmore, AB T1W 2G2
Price Range: $$$$
Amenities: Rooftop hot tubs, fitness center, fine dining, conference facilities
The Malcolm Hotel stands as a symbol of luxury in Canmore, offering upscale accommodations with breathtaking mountain views. Guests can unwind in the rooftop hot tubs, dine at the elegant restaurant, or maintain their fitness routine in the well-equipped gym. Its central location provides easy access to Canmore’s shops, galleries, and outdoor activities, making it a top choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Stoneridge Mountain Resort
Address: 30 Lincoln Park, Canmore, AB T1W 3E9
Price Range: $$$$
Amenities: Condo-style suites, full kitchens, heated outdoor pool, underground parking
Stoneridge Mountain Resort offers spacious condo-style suites ideal for families and extended stays. Each suite features a full kitchen, living area, and private balcony. Guests can enjoy the heated outdoor pool and secure underground parking. Its proximity to hiking trails and downtown Canmore ensures a convenient and enjoyable stay.
Blackstone Mountain Lodge By Clique
Address: 170 Kananaskis Way, Canmore, AB T1W 0A8
Price Range: $$$
Amenities: Outdoor heated pool, hot tubs, fitness center, spa services
Blackstone Mountain Lodge combines comfort and convenience, offering well-appointed suites with modern amenities. Guests can relax in the outdoor heated pool and hot tubs or indulge in spa services. The lodge’s location provides easy access to Canmore’s attractions and outdoor adventures.
Spring Creek Vacations
Address: 1010 Spring Creek Dr, Canmore, AB T1W 0C8
Price Range: $$$
Amenities: Luxury condos, underground parking, pet-friendly, mountain views
Spring Creek Vacations offers luxury condo rentals in the heart of Canmore’s Spring Creek community. Each unit boasts modern design, fully equipped kitchens, and stunning mountain views. The pet-friendly accommodations and proximity to trails and downtown make it a popular choice for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure.
Canmore Downtown Hostel
Address: 201-302 Old Canmore Rd, Canmore, AB T1W 0L5
Price Range: $
Amenities: Shared and private rooms, communal kitchen, lounge area, free Wi-Fi
Canmore Downtown Hostel provides budget-friendly accommodations in the heart of Canmore. With options for shared or private rooms, a communal kitchen, and a cozy lounge area, it’s perfect for solo travelers and backpackers. The hostel’s central location offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities.
Basecamp Lodge Canmore
Address: 1002 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore, AB T1W 1N6
Price Range: $$
Amenities: Rustic decor, sauna, complimentary breakfast, pet-friendly
Basecamp Lodge Canmore brings a warm, cabin-style charm right into the heart of Canmore. Perfect for travelers who appreciate a blend of rustic ambiance and modern comfort, this lodge features timber beam accents, cozy fireplaces in some rooms, and locally inspired decor. Pet-friendly rooms are a big hit with those traveling with furry companions, and its proximity to Bow Valley Trail means everything in Canmore is just a short stroll away.
Lamphouse Hotel
Address: 610 8 St, Canmore, AB T1W 2B5
Price Range: $$
Amenities: Modern boutique rooms, self-check-in, hot tubs, river and mountain views
Located on Canmore’s bustling Main Street, Lamphouse Hotel is a stylish, modern boutique property that appeals to the design-savvy traveler. Each room features sleek, minimalist decor with bold pops of color, plush bedding, and spa-like bathrooms. What sets this hotel apart is its high-tech approach, which is self-check-in, keypad entry, and contactless service make your stay smooth and secure. Many rooms come with balconies or patios that open to views of Policeman’s Creek or the surrounding peaks. A shared outdoor hot tub is perfect for unwinding after a long day of hiking or skiing. Lamphouse’s prime location means you’re just steps from Canmore’s cafes, breweries, and galleries.
The Canmore River Walk and Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk start just outside the hotel, offering relaxing nature strolls with lots of wildlife viewing. You can also hop on a quick drive to explore Grotto Canyon or Ha Ling Peak for more adventurous hikes.
Time for Adventure
