Canmore, Alberta
Finding beauty in the raindrops.
Canmore is one of Alberta’s best-kept secrets—a charming mountainside town loved by locals for its small-town feel and stunning natural beauty. Unlike Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise, Canmore isn’t within a national park, making it more affordable and accessible for everyone. Located just on the edge of Banff National Park, Canmore is a short 20-minute drive from Banff and 80 minutes from Calgary, offering visitors an outdoor playground surrounded by some of Canada’s most impressive mountain peaks.
Our visit to Canmore was unfortunately cut short by a downpour that showed no sign of letting up. We didn’t make it to any hikes as planned or get to take a leisurely stroll down 8th Street. However, we did manage to enjoy one iconic Canadian treat—a Beaver Tail! These large, flat, deep-fried pastries, first created in 1978, are usually served with cinnamon sugar, but today you can find them in about 120 different flavor combinations, with chocolate hazelnut spread being the most popular. The irresistible smell wafting from the shop will definitely draw you in!
Canmore’s pedestrian-only main street is filled with unique shops, stylish boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and quaint restaurants. I would have loved to pop into some of the boutiques, stop by The Grizzly Paw Pub and Microbrewery, or take a photo with the famous Giant Head sculpture—a massive 9-ton granite head partially submerged in sand near the entrance to Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk.
Despite the rain, Emmie and I took advantage of the day by getting pedicures (at the town’s only nail salon!) while the boys explored Olde Thyme Candy Shoppe, which reminded them of a similar candy store back in Denton, Texas.
Where We Ate
We dined at Iron Goat Pub and Grill, a tri-level bar and grill with lodge-like decor, Canadian fare, and patio seating with stunning mountain views. We started with the Baked Brie topped with locally made Pineapple Jalapeño Jam, which was absolutely amazing. The guys enjoyed Alberta Beef Burgers, while I relished my Salmon with Pineapple Salsa, served with quinoa, broccoli, and carrots. The Spicy Mango Tango drink was the perfect complement to the meal.
Do You Need a Parks Canada Pass to Visit Canmore?
You don’t need a Parks Canada Pass to visit Canmore. However, if you plan to explore Banff National Park, you’ll need to purchase one either online or at the park entrance gates. Additionally, if you’re visiting any provincial park or public land sites in Kananaskis Country or the Bow Valley, you’ll need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass. No pass is required to visit the town of Canmore itself.
Things I Wished We Did…
Hike to Grassi Lakes
Grassi Lakes is probably the most popular hike in Canmore and a major attraction. Just a short 5-minute drive from town, the 2.5-mile trail leads to some of the most vibrant emerald-colored lakes you’ll ever see. The trail gains only 410 feet in elevation and takes about two hours to complete round-trip. The parking lot fills up quickly in the summer or on weekends, so arriving early or in the evening is best. Note: You’ll need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to visit Grassi Lakes.
Shop at the Canmore Mountain Market
Every Thursday from May to October, Canmore’s main street transforms into an outdoor market. The Canmore Mountain Market, a popular summer tradition, offers a fantastic selection of local produce, artisanal baked goods, jams, meats, and more. If you’re shopping for souvenirs, you’ll find plenty of clothing, jewelry, unique crafts, and locally made products.
Walk Along the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk
This 2.5-mile trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The elevated walkway starts near the Big Head Sculpture at the intersection of Main Street and Spring Creek Drive in downtown Canmore. The trail loops through forested areas and along the water, making it both scenic and relaxing. It’s also one of the best spots to photograph the Three Sisters Mountains—Canmore’s iconic peaks known individually as Faith, Hope, and Charity.
Walk Through Grotto Canyon
Grotto Canyon Trail is a popular 2.6-mile return hike near Canmore. The trail, with a modest 656-foot elevation gain, offers views of a waterfall, Grotto Canyon, and a cave if you’re up for a scramble. Just before reaching the waterfall, you’ll see several ancient Hopi pictographs painted nearly 1,000 years ago.
Drive the Smith Dorrien Trail
Also known as Highway 742, this gravel road climbs past the Grassi Lakes parking lot into the mountains, offering spectacular views of Canmore, lakes, and even Bighorn sheep, which often lounge by the roadside. At night, this is one of the best places for stargazing near Canmore, thanks to the minimal light pollution.