Are you looking for the ultimate outdoor adventure in the Canadian Rockies? Look no further than Canmore, Alberta. This charming mountain town is just 81 km west of Calgary. It offers a wide range of activities and sights that will amaze you.
From hiking the famous Three Sisters Mountains to exploring the historic Canmore Railway Bridge, there’s something for everyone. This guide will show you the best things to do in Canmore. It’s your ticket to unforgettable Canadian Rocky Mountain experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Canmore is a vibrant mountain town in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering a wealth of outdoor adventures and scenic attractions.
- Explore the iconic Three Sisters Mountains, hike the Three Sisters Pathway, and discover Canmore’s historic landmarks and cultural offerings.
- Indulge in the local culinary scene, including craft breweries, cozy cafes, and unique restaurants showcasing regional ingredients.
- Enjoy year-round outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to golfing and disc golf, all set against the stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop.
- Uncover Canmore’s hidden gems, from scenic drives to lesser-known trails, and immerse yourself in the town’s thriving art community.
What is Canmore and Where is it Located?
Canmore is a town in the Canadian Rockies, known for its beautiful mountains and active lifestyle. It’s 105 km west of Calgary, in Alberta’s southern region. It’s close to Banff National Park but is less crowded and cheaper.
Canmore's Geographic Location and Brief History
Canmore is just 25 km from Banff, offering easy access to the Rockies without the crowds. It started as a mining town in the 1880s, named after King Malcolm III, also known as “Canmore.” In 1965, it became a town and was in the spotlight for the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary.
Now, Canmore is a top spot for hiking, biking, and exploring. Its downtown is full of shops, breweries, and restaurants. You can get to Canmore by bus, car, or even on foot or by bike.
If you’re looking for a quieter place than Banff or want to enjoy the Rockies, Canmore is perfect. It offers a real mountain experience you won’t forget.
Marvel at the Iconic Three Sisters Mountains
Canmore’s skyline is filled with the stunning Three Sisters Mountains. These peaks, named Faith, Hope, and Charity, stand almost 10,000 feet high. They offer breathtaking Canmore mountain views for everyone to enjoy.
The Middle and Big Sister peaks are for experienced hikers. But the Little Sister is only for expert rock climbers. For a special view, try a helicopter tour with Alpine Helicopters. It gives a bird’s-eye view of the Three Sisters Mountains and the amazing landscapes around them.
Seeing the Three Sisters Mountains is a must in Canmore. You can look at them from a scenic spot or try a tough hike. These Canmore natural landmarks are famous for their beauty and are part of the town’s charm.
“The Three Sisters Mountains are a true testament to the majestic beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Standing tall and proud, they inspire a sense of awe and wonder in all who gaze upon them.”
– Local Canmore Resident
Embark on the Historic Canmore Railway Bridge Walk
In the heart of Canmore, Alberta, the Canmore Railway Bridge is a key piece of history. Built in 1891 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, it was meant to carry coal from local mines. Now, it’s a popular walking trail, letting visitors see the town’s history and enjoy views of the Bow River and Canmore historic sites.
Walking across the Canmore Railway Bridge, you’ll see its detailed ironwork and the beautiful Canmore Bow River attractions. The bridge’s gentle slope makes it easy to walk, attracting both locals and tourists.
The bridge became famous after being featured in the HBO series “The Last of Us.” This made it even more popular as a Canmore walking trails spot. It’s perfect for history fans, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a peaceful walk. The Canmore Railway Bridge is an experience you won’t forget.
“The Canmore Railway Bridge is a true gem, a window into the town’s past and a gateway to the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the Canmore historic sites.”
Get your walking shoes ready for a trip through Canmore’s history. The Canmore Railway Bridge is waiting to take you back in time and show you the Canmore Bow River attractions. Don’t miss this chance to see one of Canmore’s most famous landmarks.
Canmore, Alberta: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Trails
Canmore is a dream spot for nature lovers, filled with Canmore outdoor activities and Canmore hiking trails. Start with the Three Sisters Pathway, which winds along the Bow River and shows off the area’s beauty. For a simpler walk, try the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk through the greenery.
For those who love a challenge, the Grassi Lakes trail is a must. It leads to two beautiful lakes in the mountains. Canmore also has great Canmore biking trails, like those at the Canmore Nordic Centre. This place was a key spot for the 1988 Winter Olympics.
Canmore offers both easy walks and thrilling Canmore adventure tourism activities. Dive into the outdoors and make memories that last a lifetime.
“Canmore is a true outdoor playground, offering a diverse range of activities and trails that showcase the stunning natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.”
Indulge in the Local Culinary Scene
Canmore’s food scene is vibrant, offering everything from cozy cafes to craft breweries and top restaurants. Begin with a fresh bagel from Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. or a specialty coffee from Eclipse Coffee Roasters. For lunch or dinner, The Tavern is a great choice, famous for its Bison Burger.
Breweries, Cafes, and Restaurants
Beer lovers should check out The Grizzly Paw Brewing Pub or Sheepdog Brewing. For dinner, Murrieta’s Mountain Bar & Grill and The Stirling Dining Room and Lounge offer upscale meals with amazing mountain views.
Ramen Arashi is a hit for its tasty, affordable Japanese and Ramen dishes. Kain Tayo serves healthy Asian food inspired by international flavors. The Wood Patio is a favorite for its beautiful views at 8th Street and 8th Ave.
Communitea focuses on healthy food in a modern café. Harvest Café is great for fresh baked goods, soups, wraps, and paninis. The Sensory is one of Canada’s Best New Restaurants, with a mountain theme and stunning views. Gaucho Brazilian Barbecue brings the taste of Brazil to Main Street.
“Sauvage is noted as a romantic dining spot in Canmore, offering a Chefs’ Tasting Menu with seven exquisite courses and a fine dining experience ideal for special occasions.”
Canmore’s culinary scene offers a wide range of options, from cozy cafes to fine dining. Book a table at these top spots for an unforgettable food and drink experience in Canmore.
Discover Unique Shopping Experiences
Walking down Canmore’s Main Street (8th Street) is a fun way to find special shopping experiences. You’ll see lovely boutiques and art galleries like Stonewaters, Project A, and the Jason Carter Gallery. They offer souvenirs, artwork, and unique items. The street is only for walkers in summer, making it perfect for shopping and enjoying the mountain views.
Looking for outdoor gear, home decor, or a unique gift? Canmore’s downtown has lots of options. You can find items made by local artisans and support the creative community here.
| Shop | Offerings |
|---|---|
| Cafe Books | Loyalty rewards, book club services, discounted weekly books |
| Canmore Tea Company | Over 180 fine teas from around the world, founded in 2016 |
| Hello Vintage | Vintage dresses, jackets, tees, tote bags, open daily |
| Le Chocolatier | Assorted Belgian chocolates, inspired by Canmore, various flavors |
| Mountain Mercantile | “Mountain style” goods since 2014, variety of Rockies-themed products |
| Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe | Canmore staple since 1997, specializes in retro treats |
| Project A | Supports emerging artists, sells handmade goods, jewelry, ceramics, clothing |
| Rocky Mountain Soap Company | Handcrafts all-natural products inspired by the Rockies, sources Canadian ingredients |
| Stonewaters | Owned by childhood classmates from nearby Banff, brick-and-mortar store with online shop |
| UNLTD Skate & Snow | Offers a different selection compared to Banff location, sells fashion and lifestyle merchandise |
| Wild Life Distillery | Sells craft spirits made from local grains and mountain water, offers bottled cocktails and charcuterie |
“Canmore’s downtown is a treasure trove of unique finds, from handcrafted artisanal goods to one-of-a-kind souvenirs that capture the essence of this captivating mountain town.”
Explore Canmore's Historical Landmarks
Canmore’s history is deeply rooted in its mining past. Visitors can see many Canmore historic sites and Canmore heritage landmarks. The Canmore NWMP Barracks on Main Street is a key example. Built in the 19th century from logs, mud, and straw, it was once home to the Mounties.
This log cabin-style building shows the town’s history. The Canmore NWMP Barracks is also a Canmore historical attraction. It gives a peek into the town’s past and the North-West Mounted Police’s role.
Walking through Canmore’s historic downtown lets visitors see charming Victorian-era buildings. They can learn about the town’s rich Canmore heritage. Sites like the Canmore NWMP Barracks and the original Canmore Miner’s Union Hall are must-sees. The union hall now has a museum on the town’s mining history.
| Canmore Historic Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Canmore NWMP Barracks | A well-preserved log cabin-style building that served as the headquarters for the North-West Mounted Police in the late 19th century. |
| Canmore Miner’s Union Hall | The original home of the local miners’ union, now a museum showcasing Canmore’s mining history. |
| Canmore Railway Bridge | A historic railway bridge that has been converted into a popular walking trail, offering stunning views of the Bow River and the surrounding mountains. |
By visiting these Canmore historic sites and Canmore heritage landmarks, visitors can learn a lot about the town’s past. They’ll see how important Canmore is in Canadian history.
“Canmore’s historic buildings and landmarks offer a unique window into the town’s past, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the rugged spirit that defined this former mining community.”
Experience Scenic Drives and Hidden Gems
Canmore is close to Kananaskis Country and has many scenic highways. These roads offer Canmore scenic drives and chances to find Canmore hidden gems. The Smith-Dorrien Trail is a 70-km (43-mile) drive that takes you through mountains. You’ll see lakes, valleys, and wildlife. You’ll also find spots like Goat Pond, Whiteman’s Pond, and Mount Engadine Lodge.
For a thrilling Canmore scenic drive, try the Kananaskis Country’s scenic highways. The Smith-Dorrien Trail is a 70-km (43-mile) path that shows off amazing views of lakes, valleys, and wildlife. You’ll come across hidden spots like Goat Pond, Whiteman’s Pond, and Mount Engadine Lodge.
These Canmore road trips let you see the beauty of the Canadian Rockies beyond Canmore and Banff. They offer a chance to dive deep into nature’s beauty.
“The journey is the destination, and the destination is the journey. Embrace the winding roads and hidden gems that await you in Canmore and Kananaskis Country.”
So, pack your bags, get in your car, and start exploring the Canmore scenic drives and Canmore hidden gems. You’ll be amazed and want more of this beautiful mountain place.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities Year-Round
Canmore, Alberta, is in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. It’s a place that welcomes outdoor lovers all year. You can find adventure in summer or winter, surrounded by beauty.
Golfing, Disc Golf, and More
In summer, Canmore’s golf courses are perfect for a game. Play at Stewart Creek and Silvertip, with the Three Sisters Mountains nearby. For a fun twist, try disc golf at the Three Sisters Mountain Village and Canmore Nordic Centre.
When it snows, Canmore turns into a winter wonderland. There are over 65 km of trails for cross-country skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre. You can also go dog sledding or ice climbing at Grotto Canyon.
Canmore is great for outdoor fun all year. You can hike, bike, kayak, or fish. There’s an activity for everyone, no matter your skill level.
“Canmore is a place that captures the hearts of visitors, making them consider owning a property in the town for living, vacationing, or retirement.”
Canmore is just a 45-minute drive from Calgary. It’s ideal for those who love the Canadian Rockies. It’s perfect for outdoor adventures any time of the year.
Conclusion
Canmore, Alberta, is a hidden treasure in the Canadian Rockies. It offers many experiences for visitors to enjoy. From the famous Three Sisters Mountains to the historic Canmore Railway Bridge, it’s full of natural beauty and history.
This town has outdoor adventures, tasty food, and unique shops for everyone. It’s the perfect place for anyone looking for something special.
Canmore is easy to get to and has a lovely downtown area. It’s surrounded by beautiful mountains. It’s a great spot for exploring the Canadian Rockies and making memories that last a lifetime.
Canmore is a top pick for your next trip. It has natural wonders, cultural spots, and fun activities. This town is a gem in the Canadian Rockies.
Experience Canmore’s tourism and see why people love it. Its beautiful views and friendly people make it a special place. Canmore captures the spirit of the Canadian Rockies perfectly.