Tourism Canmore Kananaskis

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Home > Explore Canmore & Kananaskis > A Destination for All Seasons

A Destination for All Seasons

In the summer months as you venture out for day trips, walks, hikes, or sightseeing excursions keep in mind that what begins as a sunny warm day can easily become very cool if not downright cold. The converse in winter also holds true. A cooler winter day can quite easily shift gears and deliver a temperature shift of extremes.

Our suggestion is this: Everyone in the party should have a small day pack regardless of the season. Your pack will soon prove to be an invaluable friend. It will allow you to carry additional layers of clothing conveniently, as well as extras such as sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, drinking water (which you should have handy at all times; it is very dry here and dehydration should not be taken lightly), cameras and other extras. For more detail on being truly mountain ready be sure to read our Playing it Safe section of this website.

Do More, Play More, Live More - All Year Round!

Although the majority of recreational opportunities are specific to either winter or summer, there certainly are some that exist on a year round basis, and we will introduce those first.

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Caving

The Rat’s Nest Cave, located 10 minutes east of Canmore is a phenomenal experience. With the in cave temperature remaining at around 5 degrees Celsius, the cave tour is definitely a year round experience. Access is restricted to guided trips only, and trips offered consist of half day and full day tours. Although no previous experience is required, participants should be in good physical condition.

Horseback Riding & Pack Trips

Although available as a year round activity, winter riding opportunities are limited by temperatures and ground conditions. Trips are not available below –10C/+10F. Riding in the Canmore Kananaskis area is a stunning experience. The selection of terrain is phenomenal and the summer ride durations vary from a selection of short trips and day rides to multi-day pack trips.

Guided Interpretive Walks or Hikes

Essentially, guided walks or hikes can be done on a year round basis. In winter, the variation to the theme is that you likely will have the added element of snowshoes or ice cleats included in your program.

Hiking

The Canmore & Kananaskis area has absolutely more hiking than you can shake a stick at with enough variety to accommodate all levels ranging from casual walks on in town trails, to significant backcountry excursions which means naturally that there is also incredible cross country skiing and snow shoeing in wilderness settings. Our Walk, Hike, Bike section includes a sampling of some of the more popular hiking and mountain biking trails for summer activity, and cross country ski or snowshoe trails in the winter.

Sightseeing/Photography/Wildlife Viewing

Opportunities for sightseeing by car, wildlife viewing and of course photography are available on a year round basis. Wildlife watching in winter is different than the spring, summer or fall version in that some of the mammals visible outside of winter, such as bears are hibernating until spring. On the other hand, the chances of seeing lynx, cougar, bobcat and wolf is significantly better in winter than in the summer months. Having your own car does provide significant flexibility for these pursuits. It is possible to retain guided services as well.

Heli-sightseeing

Definitely a four season activity. Take a heli-tour and be truly amazed as the full majesty of Alberta’s Canadian Rocky Mountains is laid out below you.

Wine and Dine

At the top of the year round list for many is the question of gastronomy. An incredible assortment of eclectic dining experiences awaits you here. Unfortunately, while we can’t lay claim to any wines produced in Canmore, we can and do create the
perfect atmosphere in many of our restaurants to savor absolutely superb vintages paired well to exquisite meals. Oh, did we mention this all happens with the same understated grace that you will come to recognize as uniquely Canmore style.

Get Pampered

Blessed with many day spas, Canmore also has a significant assortment of health and wellness facilities. When placed in context with the absolute power of the location, Canmore is a natural location for healing - whether it be your mind, body or soul or perhaps all of the above.

Do More, Play More, Live More - All Winter!

While many people who come to Canmore in winter are here to downhill ski or board some of the best alpine ski hills and resorts in the country, even greater numbers will come here to play and discover the myriad offerings of a Canadian Winter. In as much as Canmore Kananaskis is mecca for hikers and walkers in summer, it is a winter wonderland of unfettered space and access once you strap on snowshoes or cross country skis.

For winter play and discovery, Canmore is pretty hard to beat, with ice canyon walks just 12 minutes outside of town, an awesome in town toboggan hill for kids to let it out, as well the pond for skating in the heart of downtown. Throw into the mix the Canmore Nordic Centre, just minutes from downtown, and you don’t have to go far or for long to start having some serious winter play.

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Dog Sledding

With three superb outfitters offering daily trips of varied lengths in what is definitely one of the most spectacular settings in the Canadian Rockies, dog sledding is a fit for everyone’s itinerary. Trips vary in length, and certainly go well beyond the very soft adventure that they can also be. The choice is yours.

Ice Walking

What’s so special about walking on ice? Imagine walking on a polished sheet of natural ice covering the floor of a canyon from wall to wall, with solid footing guaranteed by your sturdy ice cleats your exploration of the Grotto Canyon, Ice Falls and Pictographs is a brief sojourn of only about 1.5 to 2.0 hours total time, but likely one you will remember forever. Do it on your own, or do it with an interpretive guide.

Snowshoe Walks

Another winter experience everyone can enjoy. No learning curve, no waiting, and as few people as you would like. Within just minutes of starting out, you can experience the deepest sense of the calming forces of winter. Truly you will feel as one with your surroundings. Go with a guide and discover the hidden secrets of the flora and fauna, perhaps follow the tracks of the wolf, coyote or lynx.

Ice Climb

Perhaps never in your wildest dreams, but in Canmore Kananaskis the wildest of dreams can come true. Do a beginners ice course and experience the sense of total accomplishment you will enjoy. Professional guide instructors assure your safety. Amazing locations, and an experience well beyond the ordinary await you.

Cross Country Skiing

A signature activity in Canmore Kananaskis as Canmore was the host community for cross country and biathlon competition during the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. The Nordic Centre in Canmore still plays host to elite competitive skiers from all over the world, as well as providing an incredible facility for beginners and other recreational skiers to enjoy world class facilities, track set trails and snowmaking. A number of wilderness areas offer track set systems. Cross Country Skiing Trail information.

Skiing & Snowboarding

When it comes to skiing and snowboarding in the Canadian Rockies, Canmore is at the epicentre of four different notable downhill ski areas, Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, Mount Norquay and Nakiska.
Sunshine Village - Only twenty minutes from Canmore, the Sunshine high-speed gondola whisks skiers up to the village at 7,000 feet. From there, numerous high-speed quads spread out all over the area - most above treeline for beautiful views and wide-open cruising.
Lake Louise - In one hour from Canmore, you can be at the top of Lake Louise, looking over the Bow Valley and preparing for an epic day of skiing or riding.
Mt. Norquay - Only 15 minutes from Canmore, the mighty Quay is where locals sneak away for 10 or 20 runs before heading to the office at lunch. It has plenty to offer skiers and riders all day long, and the only night skiing in the area every Friday.
Nakiska - A 40-minute drive from Canmore in beautiful Kananaskis Country, Nakiska offers a great mix of runs, with family cruisers, amazing glades, and steep corduroy runs to race down (evoking the 1988 Olympics, perhaps - Nakiska hosted the downhill events).

Do More, Play More, Live More - Summer!

Certainly a major part of the Canmore Kananaskis story for the spring, summer and fall seasons is the incredible variety of walks, hikes and bike trails which are available virtually from your doorstep regardless of where you are in the destination. So much so that we have dedicated a significant portion of this website to providing a more detailed overview of some of the more popular routes for those activities. Refer to the Walk, Hike & Bike - Popular Trails section for more information.

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Events and Entertainment

Canmore is known for having a pretty full calendar of events, and certainly the summer season is the peak period for the event line up. Visit our Festivals & Events page for more information The odds are there will be something happening while you are here.

In Town

Restaurant decks (patios) abound throughout Canmore and also at the Kananaskis Village. If you have never experienced a hot spring or summer day in the Rockies our guess is you likely find it hard to believe that anyone would sit on a deck here for lunch or dinner. Truth is once you have experienced dining on a deck on a warm day here, all other deck experiences are in danger of being forgotten. You will have to add this to your list of Canmore Kananaskis experiences.

Strolling around Canmore in summer is a pretty relaxed affair. The towering massifs of the Canadian Rockies literally surround you on all sides, and it is likely their proximity and presence that so much influences the mood and spirit of all who live here as well those who visit this place.

Downtown Canmore is simply magnetic, eclectic, and uncontrived. It is unique, warm and friendly. The shopping experience is distinctly casual, and perhaps a little addictive. We assure you, you will not feel rushed or pushed.

Canmore Kananaskis Golf

There are few places in the world if any, that have golf courses in settings that can rival the Canmore and Kananaskis courses. Beyond the magnificent setting the courses are of outstanding quality and recognized as such internationally. Combine the varied selection of courses with the incredible choice of activities and sightseeing opportunities and a week just might not be enough.

Mountain Biking

Likely one of the most popular pastimes for residents and visitors alike, there is a phenomenal variety of mountain bike trails to be enjoyed here. Riders of all abilities can enjoy the sport as many in town multi use trails allow for family style touring around. Our Walk, Hike, Bike section includes a sampling of some of the more popular mountain biking trails for summer activity.

White Water Rafting

Two great river experiences and four outstanding rafting outfitters await your arrival. Raft the Kananaskis River as a softer family adventure, or go for more adrenaline on the Bow River’s Horseshoe Canyon. Combine with a selection of other activities to create your ultimate trip.

Kayaking

Novices can enjoy a placid river paddling experience on the waters of the Bow River, receiving instruction and guidance throughout the experience. Opportunities for seeing osprey, bald eagles and other wildlife abound.

River Float Trips

A more interpretive experience can be had on the Bow River, which passes right through Canmore. Float trips, offered by our members, take visitors on a calm voyage down the Bow. This trip is a great chance to enjoy incredible scenery and maybe sight some wildlife. Kids as young as age three can take part, which makes this trip ideal for the young family.

Boat Cruise

Within nearby Banff National Park, Lake Minnewanka Boat Tours offer daily cruises on the lake to Devil's Gap, a scenic landmark. These tours talk about the history and ecology of the area, all while cruising the remarkable scenery (and are an excellent chance to see wildlife).

Fishing

Canmore Kananaskis is trout country. The waters of the Upper Bow River are home to naturally reproducing wild brown trout, while the many lakes of the region offer opportunities to pursue rainbow, cutthroat, brook trout, lake trout and there are even golden trout in a few locations. Book a guide and have some fun.

Regardless of the season we invite you to join us in Canmore and Kananaskis for what we are sure will prove to be among your most memorable vacation experiences.

Rock Climbing

The very history of the Canadian Rockies has much to do with climbing, and the mountain culture thrives today more than ever in Canmore. Plenty of well-known climbers call Canmore home today. In summer, at least eight crags await discovery within half an hour's drive. These offer a wide range of climbing options, from bouldering to day-long multi-pitch climbs. There is more than enough here to challenge any level of climber. Most of the climbing around Canmore is in the canyons formed by the runoff from the mountains in the area. As such, many of the cliffs receive only a limited amount of sun, which is good on hot summer days, but can be cold in the early and late season.