12 Canmore Easy Hikes and Trails for Everyone

Canmore, tucked away in the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, is an outdoor lover’s dream come true. While it’s famous for its rugged mountains and hardcore adventures, this charming town is also a haven for those looking for easy, rewarding hikes.

Canmore Easy Hikes

Cougar Creek Trail

• Trail Length: 4.5 km round trip
• Elevation Gain: 100 meters
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Trailhead: Cougar Creek Parking Lot

The Cougar Creek Trail is an excellent introduction easy hike in Canmore. Following the dry creek bed, this trail gives you the feeling of being deep in nature without actually venturing too far from town. It’s particularly popular with families and dog walkers because of its flexibility, you can turn around whenever you wish. The scenery evolves as you hike: towering canyon walls, rocky creek beds, and occasional glimpses of wildlife make it a dynamic experience.

After heavy rain or snowmelt, the area can get a bit slippery, so sturdy shoes are a must. Still, the relatively flat grade ensures it’s accessible to most fitness levels, making it a beloved favorite among locals and visitors alike.

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Horseshoe Loop

• Trail Length: 3.2 km loop
• Elevation Gain: 85 meters
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Trailhead: Cougar Creek Parking Lot

The Horseshoe Loop is a hidden gem that showcases Canmore’s natural beauty in a short, manageable package. It winds through lush forests and along open meadows, providing plenty of chances to spot deer and songbirds. The gentle elevation gain is enough to get your heart pumping without leaving you gasping for air.

What makes this trail truly special is its tranquility, it’s often overlooked by tourists, giving you a real sense of peace. It’s a perfect choice for a quick morning hike or a post-lunch stroll, and since it loops back to your starting point, there’s no need for car shuttles or complicated planning.

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Benchlands Ridge

• Trail Length: 2.5 km out and back
• Elevation Gain: 90 meters
• Duration: 1 hour
• Trailhead: Cougar Creek Parking Lot

The Benchlands Ridge offers sweeping panoramic views with very little effort. Starting at the quiet Benchlands Terrace neighborhood, the trail quickly climbs to a ridge that overlooks the town of Canmore and the Bow Valley beyond. 

Despite the slight elevation, the trail remains wide and forgiving, suitable for all skill levels, one of the easy hikes in Canmore. Once you reach the ridge, you’ll be treated to one of the best sunset spots in town. It’s ideal for photographers or anyone seeking that “wow” moment without a strenuous trek. Don’t forget your camera!

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Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk

• Trail Length: 3.9 km round trip
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Trailhead: Near Spring Creek Drive, Downtown Canmore

The Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk is a peaceful, accessible trail that runs right through the heart of Canmore. Raised wooden pathways wind alongside the creek, offering glimpses of fish, ducks, and sometimes even beavers. You’re just steps away from downtown cafes and shops, but the serenity of the boardwalk makes it feel worlds away. This trail is perfect for casual walkers, seniors, and families with strollers. 

It also connects easily with other local paths if you want to extend your adventure. Sunset walks here are magical, with golden light filtering through the trees and the Rockies glowing in the distance.

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Bow River Loop

• Trail Length: 2 km loop
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Duration: 45 minutes–1 hour
• Trailhead: Canmore Engine Bridge or Riverside Park

The Bow River Loop is a classic choice for an easy, scenic walk. Meandering along the crystal-clear Bow River, this loop features bridges, forests, and open grassy areas, all with the mighty Rockies as your backdrop. 

Interpretive signs along the way share interesting tidbits about the area’s wildlife and history, making it an educational as well as a recreational experience. With flat terrain and frequent benches for resting, it’s perfect for families, seniors, or anyone just wanting a leisurely stroll. Early morning visits often reward hikers with peaceful mist rising off the river and the chance to spot beavers busy at work!

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Three Sisters Viewpoint Trail

• Trail Length: 1.5 km out and back
• Elevation Gain: 30 meters
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Trailhead: Canmore Off Leash Dog Area

This short trail leads you to a stunning viewpoint of the iconic Three Sisters peaks—Faith, Hope, and Charity. It’s a relatively new and less-trodden path, but gaining popularity fast. The gentle walk passes through brush and open spaces before delivering that postcard-perfect view of the mountains. 

Ideal for beginners or those short on time, this trail proves that you don’t need to venture far or climb high to get a million-dollar view in Canmore. Bring a thermos of coffee or tea and just sit on a log to take it all in, it’s truly one of the area’s hidden gems.

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Three Sisters Pathway

• Trail Length: 6.7 km one way
• Elevation Gain: 50 meters
• Duration: 2–2.5 hours
• Trailhead: Various access points

If you’re looking for a longer but still easy outing, the Three Sisters Pathway is a dream. This paved trail connects the town of Canmore with the nearby Three Sisters community, hugging the Bow River and passing through serene forested sections along the way. 

Despite its length, the flat profile and well-maintained surface make it accessible for strollers, bikes, and wheelchairs. As you walk, the towering peaks of the Three Sisters create a jaw-dropping backdrop.

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Quarry Lake

• Trail Length: 1.1 km loop
• Elevation Gain: 30 meters
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Trailhead: Quarry Lake Park parking lot

Quarry Lake is one of Canmore’s most beloved recreational spots, and it’s easy loop trail is a big reason why. The path gently winds around the beautiful lake, offering jaw-dropping mountain views reflected perfectly in the water. It’s a popular spot for picnics, swimming in the summer, or simply relaxing by the shore. 

The trail is very accessible, ideal for families with young children or even those with mobility concerns. Quarry Lake also welcomes leashed dogs, making it a hot spot for locals and tourists with four-legged companions. With its postcard-perfect setting and gentle terrain, Quarry Lake is perfect when you want to enjoy nature without breaking a sweat.

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Canmore Creek Trail

• Trail Length: 4.0 km out and back
• Elevation Gain: 120 meters
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Trailhead: Near Quarry Lake

Canmore Creek Trail is an underrated beauty tucked near the Nordic Centre. This hike feels slightly more adventurous, with minor elevation gains and charming creek crossings, but it still falls firmly in the “easy” category. The trail follows the babbling Canmore Creek, leading you through cool forests and mossy landscapes that feel almost magical. In spring and early summer, wildflowers dot the sides of the trail, adding vibrant splashes of color to your hike. 

It’s a peaceful escape from busier paths, and it’s perfect for those seeking a bit of solitude and the soothing sounds of running water. Don’t forget to bring waterproof shoes if you’re hiking after rainfall, the trail can get a bit muddy!

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Rundle Forebay Reservoir

• Trail Length: 2.6 km loop
• Elevation Gain: 60 meters
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Trailhead: Near Canmore Nordic Centre

Rundle Forebay Reservoir offers an easy, scenic walk with a water feature that’s almost too beautiful to believe. The wide gravel path loops around the calm waters of the reservoir, with majestic peaks like Ha Ling and East End of Rundle towering dramatically in the background. This is a fantastic spot for photographers, bird watchers, and casual walkers alike. 

Thanks to its relatively short distance and modest elevation, it’s a popular option for quick outings, especially for those staying nearby. The water’s vivid blue color, especially under clear skies, makes every step feel like you’re walking through a painting.

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Grassi Lakes Trail

• Trail Length: 4.0 km round trip
• Elevation Gain: 125 meters
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Trailhead: Grassi Lakes Trailhead

Grassi Lakes is a Canmore classic, and for good reason. This trail offers two routes: an “easy” one and a “more difficult” one, so make sure to choose based on your comfort level. The easier route is a wide gravel path that gradually climbs to two stunning turquoise lakes surrounded by steep cliffs. Along the way, you’ll enjoy forested views and the sound of cascading waterfalls. 

The lakes themselves are jaw-droppingly beautiful and make for an ideal picnic or photo stop. Because of its popularity, Grassi Lakes can get crowded, especially on weekends, so try to visit early or on weekdays for a quieter experience.

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Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail (Canmore Section)

• Trail Length: 4.5 km one way (Canmore to Banff is 26.8 km total)
• Elevation Gain: 50 meters (Canmore section)
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours (for the Canmore stretch)
• Trailhead: Legacy Trail Parking Lot

The Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail is a paved, multi-use path that links Canmore to Banff. While the full trail stretches nearly 27 km, you don’t have to tackle the whole thing. The Canmore section is an easy, scenic journey through rolling hills and alongside the Trans-Canada Highway, all with jaw-dropping mountain views. 

It’s ideal for cyclists, but walkers and runners also love it for its smooth terrain and expansive vistas. The trail is especially popular in spring and fall when the scenery explodes with color. Even a short walk along the trail is worth it, offering a modern and accessible way to connect with nature.

Nearby Restaurants

Canmore’s culinary scene is just as delightful as its trails! After working up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal:

Nearby Attractions

Once you’re done exploring the trails, Canmore offers even more to discover:

Canmore’s charm extends well beyond hiking trails, offering a mix of culture, relaxation, and more outdoor fun.

Accommodations

Looking for where to stay in Canmore Town? The following listed some of the hotels or airBnb in Canmore.

FAQs