36 Best Things To Do In Canmore In Winter

Few places in the world are as magical in the winter as the town of Canmore. Towering snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, and warm cups of hot cocoa await all visitors to Canmore in the winter.

There are so many things to do in Canmore in winter that shouldn’t be ignored. A few of our favorite activities include skiing at Nakiska, ice skating on the town pond, and enjoying ice fishing at Spray Lakes. What – you think just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean you can’t get moving? Here are some of the best Canmore winter activities to do!

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Best Things to do in Canmore in Winter

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Go Ice Skating on the Town Pond

One of the best things to do in Canmore in the winter is ice skate on the well-maintained town pond. While you can ice skate on some frozen lakes in the Rockies, the town provides a safe alternative in downtown Canmore.

Because the town services the pond daily and resurfaces three to five times a week, you’re almost guaranteed a reliable surface here.

Skating in Canmore is fun during the day but also at night when it’s all lit up by the nearby lights. The Town of Canmore also has a few other ice rinks nearby. Those can be found here.

If you don’t have your own skates, you have a few options; you can either rent some or purchase a used pair at the Community Thrift Store or Canadian Tire. If you plan on going ice skating in the Rockies at least a few times, this may be a good option.

I picked up my ice skates for $20 at the Canmore Crossway Community Thrift Store, and although they needed a good sharpening, they have lasted me on all my frozen lake adventures. You can also rent ice skates in town at Gear Up and Sports Experts in town.

*The town pond is unfortunately closed for the 2024 season; alternative rinks include the Cougar Creek Boarded Ice Rink and the Larch Boarded Ice Rink.

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Ice Skate on Goat Pond or Spray Lakes

Speaking of wild ice skating, if you want to hit up a few of the best-frozen lakes to ice skate in the Canadian Rockies, you aren’t far away in Canmore. My favorites to visit in the winter are Goat Pond on the Smith Dorrien, Spray Lakes right next to it, and Lac Des Arcs near Exshaw.

Though these lakes aren’t great for ice skating all winter. The trick is to catch them at just the right time, usually in November, December, and early January.

That’s when it’s gotten cold enough for them to freeze over enough to allow safe skating (over 4 inches) and before the first significant snowfall that covers the lake. See our favorite places to ice skate in the Rockies here.

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Hike Up Ha Ling Peak

Ha Ling Peak is a Canmore staple as it sits high above the town and is a defining feature in the Rockies. It’s fun to hike in the summer, but it’s also possible to hike in the winter with the proper knowledge and gear.

Just make sure to pack for a winter hike with warm clothes, proper boots, microspikes, and poles. Check the avalanche forecast before you go, as there are a few avi paths you will cross to summit Ha Ling Peak.

If there is a storm and bad weather in the forecast, postpone until a sunny day. Although it’s one of the more accessible and popular mountain summits in the Rockies, it’s still a serious peak with consequences. However, if you are looking for a nice four hour hike that provides amazing views over Canmore, Ha Ling is an excellent choice.

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Ski or Snowboard at Mt. Norquay or Nakiska

The closest ski resorts to Canmore are Mt. Norquay in Banff and Nakiska Ski Resort in Kananaskis. Both are great places to ski and offer fun for the entire family.

Unlike Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise, Nakiska and Mt. Norquay are much more beginner-friendly and don’t have the gnarly cliff drops that other resorts do.

What they are great for is cruising the groomers and enjoying the views. They are both family-friendly ski resorts for families or groups visiting the Canadian Rockies and not for die-hard powder hounds.

Our Ultimate Guide to the SkiBig3 Resorts

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Go Ice Fishing

During the winter, Canmore Fishing Adventures provides ice fishing excursions on the lakes surrounding Canmore and Kananaskis, delivering an authentically Canadian adventure. Typically, the adventure happens either at Spray Lakes or Kananaskis Lakes, but no matter what, you’ll be able to enjoy the serene ambiance of the winter Rockies, taking the opportunity to appreciate their beauty.

Whether you’re casting your line on the frozen lake amidst the stunning surroundings or seeking refuge from inclement weather in one of their heated shelters, the experience promises relaxation and excitement. Trips include all the fishing gear required for a day on the ice which means huts, heaters, rods, reels, lures, snacks and hot drinks (but not your Alberta fishing license). Take the full day to try your luck at catching lake trout, bull trout, cutthroat trout, and rainbow trout.

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Walk Through Grotto Canyon

If you want to go for a hike in the winter, one of the best options is the Grotto Canyon hike in Canmore. It’s one of the best Canmore hikes and will lead you to discover intriguing rock formations and delve into the rich history of the Hopi natives.

It’s an easy Canmore hike that’s good year-round. Even in the winter, this famous canyon with rock art is possible to walk along the frozen creek. At only 4km in length, you can check this one off the list in an hour or two. It is possible to hike Grotto Canyon by yourself, but if it makes you feel more comfortable hiking in the winter, Viator offers an excellent guided experience.

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Photograph the Three Sisters

The Three Sisters are the most defining mountains in Canmore, and some of the most iconic in the Canadian Rockies, only behind Cascade Mountain and Mount Rundle. Faith, Hope, and Charity, as they are called are the individual mountains that make up the Three Sisters Mountain. The Three Sisters are visible almost everywhere in Canmore.

At nearly 10,000 feet, they’re hard to miss, and that’s a good thing because experiencing these stalwart giants is one of the best things to do in Canmore that you won’t want to pass up. You’ll be able to get great views of them from the bridge in Downtown Canmore, or just about anywhere else in Canmore. However all the details of my favorite place to photograph the Three Sisters in the winter can be found here.

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Walk Around Quarry Lake

Quarry Lake is a lake in Canmore that locals visit daily to stretch their legs or take the dog for a walk (there is an off-leash park nearby). Walking around the lake is a leisurely thing to do in Canmore in the winter when you are just looking to spend some time in the great outdoors. Look up, and you’ll find great views of Mount Rundle, the Little Sister, and Ha Ling Peak!

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Nordic Ski at the Canmore Nordic Center

The Canmore Nordic Center is what put Canmore on the map for tourism. For the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, the center was constructed and brought in international visitors from around the world.

The center still operates today with trails for cross country skiing, mountain biking, and hiking. The trail system for cross country skiing is world-class ready to hold international events with 60km of trails and 6km that have lights for nighttime skiing. You can rent a pair of Nordic skis and take to the trails here for a day among the giants.

A day pass for the Nordic Center is $15

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Snowshoe to Chester Lake

Chester Lake in Kananaskis Country Provincial Park is a fantastic snowshoe and is very popular in the winter. It’s a great snowshoe if you are new to the sport, as it’s only a 424-meter gain and less than 10 km round trip.

Once you reach the lake, you’ll have amazing views. You can rent a pair of snowshoes at Sports Expert, Gear Up, Outdoor Ski, or buy a pair at Canadian Tire.

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Go on a Helicopter Tour

Can’t hike up a mountain in the winter? No worries! Just take to the sky on an epic helicopter tour. Alpine Helicopters is based in Canmore and offers helicopter tours that provide a spectacular bird’s eye view of the surrounding mountains. While it’s certainly not a cheap thing to do in Canmore in the winter, it is undoubtedly an unforgettable one.

Tours begin at $150 per person and can reach as high as $600 for a 45-minute tour. However, rates are lower in the winter and during off-season months like April, so make sure to check their site to find the best rate.

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Go Dog Sledding With Howling Dog Tours

Dog sledding is a quintessential winter experience and will easily be a highlight of any winter vacation in the Canadian Rockies. Howling Dog Tours in Canmore offers the chance to enjoy this experience deep in Kananaskis. HDT is a small family operation that has been in operation since 1995 and is a great ethical company in the Bow Valley. Head over to their website for their contact details.

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Hike to Grassi Lakes

A rewarding and easy Canmore hike in the winter is Grassi Lakes. In the summer, Grassi Lakes is a busy one, but it’s likely you won’t see many people on the trail in the winter, especially on a weekday!

So what are Grassi Lakes? These are two sparkling teal alpine lakes that can be reached in under one hour by hiking. Many of the lakes in the Rockies freeze in the winter, but it’s possible you can still see Grassi Lakes unfrozen and blue even in the winter!

This hike is a highlight in the area as the well-trodden and wide trail is manageable for any skill level of hiker. The two sparkling lakes nestled below Ha Ling Peak and the East End of Mount Rundle (another famed hike— advanced level) are a wonderful sight to be seen by all visitors.

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Walk the Canmore Engine Bridge

Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1891 on a railroad spur line to serve the coal mines, the Canmore Engine Bridge is now somewhat of an icon in Canmore. It’s now part of the Bow River Loop Trail, a beautiful walk in Canmore.

It was already a popular place to head for a nice walk, but with the popularity of The Last of Us HBO show, it’s now one of the most iconic places for fanatics to head to. I particularly love the views of Ha Ling covered in snow from the bridge. You may even see Canmore’s resident elk hanging about if you’re lucky!

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Go for a Fat Bike Ride

You don’t have to give up on biking just because mountain biking season is over. There are some great fat bike trails around Canmore, including a few just around town.

Some of the best fat biking routes are:

• Bow River Loop
• Quarry Lake Recreation Area
• Canmore Nordic Center
• Cougar Creek / Horseshoe Loop (Moderate)
• Highline Trail (Hard)

You can rent a fat bike at Rebound Cycle downtown, and they will provide you with all the information you need to take to the trails.

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Kananaskis Nordic Spa

The Kananaskis Nordic Spa is in the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge in Kananaskis Country less than one hours drive from Canmore. It’s right at the base of Nakiska Ski Resort, so if you plan on doing any family-friendly skiing at Nakiska, consider booking a stay here.

The Kananaskis Mountain Lodge is a beautiful place to stay in the Rockies, and their new Nordic Spa has a complete relaxation package. You could spend a whole day here with your spouse or friends, enjoying the steam rooms and saunas. If you’re having a romantic holiday in the Rockies, you’ll love this spot!

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Shoeshoe Around Burstall Pass

Burstall Pass is a classic hike in the summer and snowshoe trail in the winter in Kananaskis Country and off the Smith Dorrien Trail. The hike moves past several marshy lakes and streams before a steep ascent up to an alpine meadow, and then finishes on a high mountain pass with grand glaciated mountain views. Before venturing back here in the winter, it’s best to have proper avalanche training, gear, and knowledge.

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Drive the Smith Dorrien Highway and Connect to Highway 40

If you’re just feeling a leisurely road trip day and want to enjoy the mountains from the car, you must drive the Smith Dorrien Highway. This gravel road drive starts in Canmore and ends at Kananaskis Lakes or vice versa.

Along the drive, you’ll pass sights like Whiteman’s Pond, Goat Pond, Spray Lakes, and so many beautiful mountains, possibly even some mountain goats or bighorn sheep! You can connect the Smith Dorrien to Highway 40 to make it a full loop! I suggest at least three hours to complete the drive at a leisurely pace, especially in the winter. It’s best to only take on this drive in the winter if you have experience driving in winter conditions, as the road is not paved and can get very sketchy between November and April.

Please always drive the speed limit as there is plenty of wildlife on this road, and fast drivers often cause wildlife collisions.

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Walk the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk

If you are staying at one of the best Canmore hotels downtown, head out in the morning for a brisk walk on the Policeman’s Creek Trail.

This is an easy walk on an elevated boardwalk that anyone of any age can enjoy. From Main Street down to Spring Creek only takes 10 minutes or so. When you reach the Malcolm Hotel, head inside for a warm-up hot chocolate at Pulse Coffee Shop – one of our favorite coffee shops in Canmore.

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Try Ice Climbing

There are some fantastic ice-climbing opportunities around Canmore. Many are mellow and great for beginner ice climbers. If you don’t have any ice climbing experience, you should book a proper guided tour with Yamnuska Mountain Adventures. Some notable ice climbs around Canmore are:

• Grotto Falls
• Junkyards
• Ghosto Coaster
• Cascade Falls (Banff)
• Johnston Canyon (Banff)

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Catch the Northern Lights

It is possible to see the northern lights in the Canadian Rockies! Though timing them is all about luck! However if you do manage to see them shine over the Rockies, you are in for the night of your life.

Though the northern lights can appear at any time of year, your best chance of seeing them is between October and April, when the night sky is darkest.

We recommend downloading an app and watching the KP index. Look for a clear night and a new moon – and don’t plan on getting much sleep! Oh and hope that lady luck on your side, we see the aurora in the Rockies just a few times per year.

 How To See The Northern Lights in the Canadian Rockies

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Warm Up in a Brewery

Canmore is home to some amazing breweries and distilleries. My two favorites are Grizzly Paw on Main Street and Sheepdog Brewing on Bow Meadows Crescent. During a Canmore winter, it’s popular to sit by the outdoor fire at Grizzly Paw or enjoy your brew inside in the heat.

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Indoor Rock Climbing at Elevation Place

One of the best places to head on a cold Canmore winter day is indoors to Elevation Place. This great community center has a pool, waterslide, and library, but most locals head there for the indoor rock climbing wall.

There are climbing areas suitable for nearly every age and physical ability; lessons are available for those with little or no experience. You can rent gear at Elevation Place if you don’t have any!

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Canmore Christmas Artisan’s Market

For over 20 years, Canmore has hosted the Christmas Artisan’s Market, which features nearly 100 artists and artisans who specialize in clothes, paintings, ceramics, and natural body products, to name just a few.

The market only runs on a few days out of the year, typically in late November, so make sure to check the website to see what days and times you can go. Plenty of food and drinks will be on hand, and the small admission fee benefits the Canmore Preschool Society.

The 2023 Canmore Christmas Artisans Market runs from November 18 & 19, 2023 (10am to 4pm) at the Canmore Recreation Centre (1900 8th Avenue, Canmore). Admission is $5 and all proceeds going to the Canmore Preschool Society.

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Explore Rat’s Nest Cave

If spending a few hours of your vacation groping around in a dank, subterranean cave named after rats sounds like an adventure for you, then a Rat’s Nest Cave tour may be just what you’ve been seeking.

The excellent guides at Canmore Cave Tours will gladly guide you from above ground to below through the pristinely natural and undeveloped cave. This is one of the best things to do in Canmore if the weather is looking really nasty, as regardless of weather, and your knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide will give you a fascinating glimpse into Canmore.

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Hike to Troll Falls

A fun, family-friendly Kananaskis hike to an incredible Alberta waterfall is Troll Falls. It’s short and easy at just 3.4 km round trip and less than 50 meters of gain, and will lead you right to a frozen waterfall. If you are planning a trip in the winter, hiking poles and microspikes may be helpful for you.

The trail can be a bit hectic as it’s one of the best easy hikes near Calgary, so we recommend aiming to hike this on a weekday!

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Canmore Reservoir

The Rundle Forebay Reservoir, or Canmore Reservoir, as locals call it, is a fantastic place to canoe, sup, kayak, and even swim in the summer. It also supplies the Town of Canmore with its water. While it’s not possible to canoe or kayak on the reservoir in the winter, it’s certainly possible to walk or trail run along the pathway to the left of the lake.

Not only is it a practical place to visit, but it’s one of the most beautiful as the magnificent Ha Ling Peak towers over it, and if you look to your left, you’ll get great views of the Little Sister.

This pathway will take you to the end of the reservoir, where you can either turn around or take the Powerline Trail for a longer walk. The Powerline Trail will connect you to Quarry Lake or go further to the Three Sisters Mountain Village. Even if you’re not up for a hike, seeing the reservoir is one of the best things to do in Canmore in the winter.

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Go Glamping

There’s no better place to stay in Kananaskis than Mount Engadine Lodge! In the remote section of the park is this truly amazing place to stay and Mount Engadine offers cabins, yurts, and traditional rooms. Perfect for a cozy winter stay! They operate all year long and offer a home away from home in the mountains. It’s the closest thing to glamping that you’ll get in the area!

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Canmore Festival of Trees

During the first week of December, the local Canmore businesses and community organizations come together to compete for the top spot in Christmas tree decor. Throughout the month, you’ll find beautifully decorated trees that line the hall of the Malcolm Hotel.

From December 2nd to December 31st, anyone can enter The Malcolm and admire the decor, with a hot cup of coffee from Pulse Coffee (inside The Malcolm) in hand. The Festival of Trees is the Rotary Club of Canmore’s primary fundraiser, and last year’s event raised nearly $100,000!

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Shop on Main Street

While Main Street isn’t pedestrian-only in Canmore in the winter like it is in the summer, it’s still just as magical to walk around. Stroll down 8th Street and venture into the galleries and shops. Our favorite shop to pop into is Stonewaters, but we also always love going into Alberta’s Own, the Carter-Ryan Gallery, and grabbing a coffee at Eclipse!

This is also where you’ll find some of the best Canmore restaurants like Where the Buffalo Roam, The Wood, and Fergus & Bix.

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See the Giant Head

If you’re strolling down Main Street (8th Street), you will certainly come across a giant head near The Drake. The “Big Head” is a sculpture created by artist Al Henderson, who was inspired by Canmore’s name. The name Canmore was taken from a small town in Scotland and means “great head” or “chief” in the Gaelic language.

This big head, or half of a head, is a local landmark. I’m certain you will see it, but in case you miss it, look for The Drake Pub near from Policemen’s Creek Boardwalk – it’s right near it!

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Winter Wilderness & Wildlife Tour

Any visit to the Canadian Rockies will likely be met with some wildlife sightings. You’ll see plenty of elk in Canmore, as they often like to hang out in town.

While it’s unlikely you’ll see a bear in the winter, we frequently see deer and coyotes. Keep your eyes peeled when visiting, and you’ll likely see something too!

Please remember these animals are wild and deserve to be treated with respect and plenty of space. If you make wildlife change its course of direction, you are too close. Although it’s possible to see wildlife on your own, we recommend booking with the pros on a Winter Wilderness & Wildlife Tour, which is a small-group hiking tour from Canmore.

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Cowboys and Coal Mines – Historic Walking Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Western Canada and embark on a captivating journey through Canmore on this 1.5 hour tour! Travel back in time to uncover the intriguing tales hidden behind the picturesque landscapes and delve into the ancient history and enigma of the Rockies, etched in stone.

This tour unveils a narrative steeped in mystery and fascination, shared by the earliest explorers, pioneers, and cowboys who once inhabited the Rockies. Designed as a leisurely stroll suitable for the entire family, it offers an authentic, local experience that is great for those looking for a short activity.

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Venture Into Banff

Seeing that you’re in Canmore in winter, you’ll likely also be visiting Banff National Park, just a short drive away. There are many things to do in Banff in the winter, from wandering around downtown into The Spirit of Christmas store, to taking a horse-drawn carriage around the town.

Some of my favorite places to head in Banff that are just a short drive away from Canmore are Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, and Vermilion Lakes.

40 Magical Ways To Spend Christmas In Banff

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Where to Eat in Canmore

• Communitea: For a quick and fresh bite to eat at lunch, I typically turn to Communitea. They offer delicious salads, breakfast bowls, and the best Pad Thai in the town.
• Where the Buffalo Roam Saloon: Epic spot on Main Street for cocktails and a dinner out with friends.
• Tavern 1883: Hands down, Tavern 1883 does the best burgers in Canmore. It’s a lively scene here, especially during the holidays.
• Grizzly Paw: If you’re looking for a place to grab a cold beer, head to Grizzly Paw. It’s an inviting space with a patio with a fireplace, so you can still dine outside but stay relatively warm in the winter.

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Visiting Canmore vs. Banff

Canmore and Banff are both popular tourist towns but have very different vibes and things to offer. Canmore is a town of nearly 15,000, while Banff is around 8,000. Banff is located in Banff National Park and thus has more building and development regulations.

Banff Over Canmore

Banff is geared more toward tourism, with more shops, hotels, activities, and sights. The town is surrounded by the National Park and provides amazing access to outdoor activities. Of course, all of this draws in a massive crowd, and there are several kitschy things like cheap souvenir shops, McDonald’s, Ruby Tuesdays, Chilis, and cheesy candy shops.

There are also some great independent retailers, restaurants, and they have some big brand-name outdoor shops hard to find like FjallRaven, Patagonia, The North Face, and Helly Hansen.

Canmore Over Banff

Canmore is a more liveable town with two large grocery stores, a drugstore, Canadian Tire, and more independent retailers. Some also prefer the food scene in Canmore as it is geared towards locals and Calgarians, although that’s not to say that Banff doesn’t have some fabulous restaurants.

Downtown Canmore is popular on weekends, but it’s much more manageable with far fewer crowds than Banff. If you want a low-key mountain town vibe, then Canmore is an excellent choice for you.

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Is It Cold in Canmore in Winter?

Just like Banff in the winter, Canmore is just as cold. From mid-October to April, you can expect to be chilly. Temperatures are often between -15 and -20C, and when there’s a really cold snap, it will easily drop to -30C for a few days. Arrive to Canmore in the winter with a warm jacket, boots, hat, scarf, and gloves!

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Where to Stay in Canmore

While enjoying all these things to do in Canmore in the winter, you’ll need a great base to stay at. Here are a few of our favorites.

Basecamp Resorts: One of the best places to stay in Canmore is Basecamp Resorts and Lodge in Downtown Canmore. There are multiple apartment styles to stay in, many can accommodate larger groups of people. Complete with a hot tub to be enjoyed in the winter or summer.

The Malcolm: The Malcolm Hotel is the nicest hotel in Canmore and sits right along Policemen’s boardwalk just far enough away from the hustle of Downtown. It’s a fantastic place to stay and have a unique experience in Canmore. They also have a heated pool with Three Sisters views – perfect for winter!

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Getting to Canmore in the Winter

If you’re flying into Calgary International Airport, know that it takes 1.15 hours to get to Canmore from the airport. If you are driving yourself, it’s a pretty easy journey along the Trans Canada. However, if you are visiting without a car, there are some options to get to Canmore.

Self Drive

If renting a car, the fastest route from Calgary to Canmore is on the Trans-Canada Highway. From YYC to Canmore takes 1 hr 20 min across 122.0 km via the Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 W, in the winter it may take longer depending on conditions. This route isn’t very scenic but gets very pretty once you pass the Stoney Nakoda Casino and the entrance to Kananaskis on your left-hand side. Before reaching Canmore, you’ll see famous mountain peaks like Yamnuska. If you pass the Banff park gates, you have gone too far, though it would be near impossible to miss the exits for Canmore.

Banff Airporter

The Banff Airporter is a year-round service between Calgary, Canmore, and Banff. They have many scheduled times, so you rarely have to wait more than an hour after your flight has landed unless you land at an odd hour. You can book a transfer from the airport right to the drop off location at the Coast Hotel in Canmore. Once at the Coast Hotel, you can call a cab, or walk to take you to your Canmore Hotel.

Brewster Express

Brewster Express is the largest operator of group tours and bus services in and around the Canadian Rockies. They run shuttles in the winter from Downtown Calgary and YYC to Canmore for $81 one way.

Banff Express

The Banff Express offers great value fares to Canmore. Buses leave from Calgary Eau Claire Market (Good Earth Coffeehouse), Calgary – Foothills Hospital McCaig Tower (West Entrance), and the HI Calgary City Centre Hostel. Passengers are dropped off at the Canmore – Visitor Information Centre. Drop off at your hotel or home is available in Banff, but not in Canmore. Compared to the airport options, The Banff Express is an affordable option.

How to Get From Calgary to Canmore

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