travel alberta visitor center canmore

Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre

Located on Highway 1A, immediately off the Trans Canada Highway exit between the Banff National Park Gates and Canmore, Alberta, this Visitor Information Centre (VIC) is a great place to stop and get information for Canmore, Banff National Park, as well as great information on all of Alberta.

Adjacent to the Legacy Trail trailhead, there is parking available for you to ride the trail. Very helpful and knowledgeable VIC staff can help with quick questions and trip planning information.

There is long parking stalls for RV's, cars, buses and no Overnight parking.

Along with free WI-FI lounge, there are picnic tables, an on-leash green place area and washrooms open 7:00 am - 10:00 pm. The Main Visitor Information Centre is open 9:00 am - 5:00pm.

If you have any questions, please e-mail them at [email protected] .

Toll Free: 1-800-252-3782

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Explore Canmore Kananaskis

Top ways to experience Explore Canmore Kananaskis and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Explore Canmore Kananaskis - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.67 km) Pocaterra Inn & Waterslide
• (0.29 km) Wapiti Campground
• (0.85 km) Silver Creek Lodge
• (0.56 km) Chateau Canmore
• (0.86 km) Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn
• (0.33 km) Wild Orchid Bistro & Sushi Bar
• (0.84 km) Wild Orchid Bistro & Sushi Lounge
• (0.40 km) McDonald's
• (0.59 km) Craig's Way Station
• (0.93 km) Chez Francois Restaurant

Explore Canmore Kananaskis

Top ways to experience Explore Canmore Kananaskis and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Explore Canmore Kananaskis - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.42 mi) Pocaterra Inn & Waterslide
• (0.18 mi) Wapiti Campground
• (0.53 mi) Silver Creek Lodge
• (0.35 mi) Chateau Canmore
• (0.54 mi) Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn
• (0.21 mi) Wild Orchid Bistro & Sushi Bar
• (0.52 mi) Wild Orchid Bistro & Sushi Lounge
• (0.25 mi) McDonald's
• (0.37 mi) Craig's Way Station
• (0.58 mi) Chez Francois Restaurant

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The ULTIMATE Guide of Best Things To Do in Canmore (for 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Updated on January 7, 2024

Often overshadowed by neighbouring Banff , Canmore is a small city on the edge of the magnificent Canadian Rockies that is becoming harder to overlook. It began as a coal town but is now a large tourism magnet all on its own. It’s a hub for several provincial parks like Kananaskis and Spray Lakes, where countless outdoor adventures can keep you busy for days. And with an impressive amount of things to do in Canmore itself, the town’s attractions will cement your desire to return again and again.

Being just a short drive from Calgary and outside of the confines of Banff National Park, Canmore attracts many day-trippers but also offers top-notch options to spend weekends or even weeks there, year-round. The world-class Canmore Nordic Centre offers prime cross-country skiing and other amenities; in summer, there are endless trails to hike or bike and even a thriving art scene for collectors to admire. And for such a small city, the number of choice eateries may surprise (and will undoubtedly delight).

Personally, Canmore has fast become one of our favourite places in Alberta to explore the Rockies without feeling part of an overrun tourist mecca. After spending a month there recently, we sampled a lot and have outlined many of our favourite stops and activities below.

Acknowledgments

Canmore is located on the traditional lands of Treaty 7 Territory, including the Stoney Nakoda Nations of Wesley, Chiniki and Bearspaw; three Nations of the Blackfoot Confederacy: the Pikani, Kainai, and Siksika; and the Tsuu T’ina of the Dene people. Canmore is also shared with the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III.

Getting to Canmore

The city of Canmore is located just off Highway 1, 103 km west of Calgary and just a few kilometres from the gates into Banff National Park. You can also take the more scenic route, Highway 1A from Calgary to Canmore, but it will add an extra 15 minutes.

It’s also just a quick jaunt from Canmore to Banff . You can drive the 21 km in just a few minutes by car or head up the popular Legacy Trail on foot or bike if you’re feeling energetic.

Shuttle or Bus to Canmore

There are several options to catch a shuttle or bus to Canmore. Options are available from the Calgary International Airport, Calgary downtown or other Calgary locations. The best companies to book transport with are Brewster Express, Banff Airporter and the Banff Express, all with one-way and return options available.

Roam Transit

Roam Transit is your #1 choice for transport within Canmore. It’s the local public transit service, and Route 5 will get you from your hotel to throughout the townsite. Their Route 3 will also get you to and from Banff, and other options can get you to popular destinations such as Johnston Canyon , Lake Louise, and the Upper Hot Springs.

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Accommodations in Canmore

Before you begin lining up your list of things to do in Canmore, plan for the rest and rejuvenation you’ll desperately need after all of your activity! There are plenty of places to stay in Canmore; it all comes down to personal choice. Below are our recommendations.

The Solara Canmore melds the charm of a backcountry ski lodge with all the amenities of an alpine resort. Whether you want to indulge at the on-site spa or warm up those muscles at the ‘fabulously-rated’ fitness centre before you hit one of the nearby hikes, Solara Canmore has a little bit of luxury for everyone. All rooms come with a fully-equipped kitchen, with access to a balcony so you can truly enjoy the natural beauty of Canmore.

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Minutes from Banff National Park, the Canmore Lodge offers sweeping mountain vistas and cozy rooms. There are one, two, and three-bedroom fully furnished condominiums, each with its own fireplace and balcony. After a day of skiing, you can melt away those tired muscles in one of the year-round heated pools.

Located just off the Trans-Canada Highway, you can wake up early at the Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn and head downtown (an 18-minute walk or 5-minute drive) to explore Canmore’s quaint and quiet streets and still have time to make it back for your deluxe continental breakfast at the inn. Most offer a small patio or terrace to make the most of those gorgeous Canmore views.

Get out of town !

Not precisely in Canmore, but the Mount Engadine Lodge is worth the drive! Nestled deep in Spray Valley Provincial Park, in the shadow of its namesake peak, Mount Engadine Lodge is the ultimate in remote luxury. Explore trails by day and unwind with a massage and a sauna in the evening. Breakfast, lunch (bagged), and dinner (family table style) are included, and the lodge is accessed by car, or, if you have the means, via helicopter.

Want more options? We’ve got an entire guide on the best hotels in Canmore for all budgets.

Canmore Airbnb

Canmore is one of the few towns we know of in North America with specific rules around Airbnb (if you’re interested, read more about it here). We’ve used Airbnb in Canmore before without issue, though, and there are many great places to stay! Start your search here .

Camping in Canmore

If you want a bit more of a nature-filled experience for your time in the Rockies, numerous campgrounds surrounding Canmore are certainly worth a look. Starting June 1, 2021, visitors to this area (Kananaskis) will require a Kananaskis Conservation Pass. The pass is $15 per day or $90 per year + GST per vehicle while visiting Kananaskis and the Bow Valley corridor. Details about the pass are available  here , and you can buy your pass  here .

Bow Valley Campground – Located about 30 km east of Canmore, just north of Hwy. 1 off Hwy. 1X, Bow Valley offers well-treed sites with scenic mountain-meets-valley views. There are six walk-in tent-sites (unserviced), 131 serviced (water, 15 – 30 amp-powered) sites, and 36 unserviced sites. –> Reserve a Spot

Wapiti Campground – Operating year-round, with 362 summer sites and 75 winter camping sites, Wapiti offers private spots along the Athabasca River. Great for both tenting and RVing, there are plenty of lots with electrical hookups and fire pits and hot showers available. –> Reserve a Spot

Spray Lakes West Campground – Deep in the heart of Spray Lakes Provincial Park, the West Campground is tucked along the quiet shores of Spray Lakes Reservoir. There are 50 unserviced sites suitable for both RVs or tents, with a water pump, firepits, and secure food storage available. This is a first-come, first-served location open from June 1 to September 20. –> Reserve a Spot

Want to review more options? Check out our post on the best Canmore camping spots.

Things to do in Canmore

We have spent a lot of time in Canmore in both the summer and the winter. There is no shortage of activities in this small alpine city and our first attraction is always the beautiful trails we can trek with our hiking boots on. But trade those boots for bikes or skis and your to-do list just grew a bunch more!

Walking Trails in Canmore

There are many walking trail options in Canmore to keep your feet busy in the area – so much so that you can almost walk across the city without touching pavement! Here are a few of our favourites:

Policeman Creek Boardwalk – The name says it all. Easy as walking the beat in a city, this paved/boardwalk trail is a leisurely out-and-back 3.9 km hike with moderate traffic. This trail is wheelchair-friendly, offers a host of activity options for families, and your four-legged friend is welcome to come along as long as they’re on a leash. A bonus is that this walk is easily done in winter without snowshoes!

Bow River Loop – A gentle 2.1 km loop, this paved trail crosses Canmore Engine Bridge for a quick taste of nature, then loops back into town. The path is excellent for a morning warm-up jog before you hit the Nordic Centre or a pleasant evening stroll after a delicious meal at BLAKE ’s.

Larch Island Loop – One of our favourite things to do in Canmore! For a quiet, relaxed walk, wander around Larch Island , which passes right next to the babbling Bow River. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the fall when the larch trees – or Tamarack trees as our southern neighbours call them – turn gold, then you’re in for double the treat!

Trans Canada Trail – Canmore’s own slice of the Trans Canada Trail , this 6.1 km path follows along the Bow River and is best from May through October. The trail begins just north of Bow River Campground and ends in Canmore, just north of Rocky Mountain Flatbread (how convenient 😏).

Hiking in Canmore

There are plenty of options for Canmore hikes in the area (and hikes in Kananaskis country) for all skill levels. Whichever hike you choose, remember to respect nature by bringing out what you bring in, don’t feed the wildlife, and be bear prepared (carry bear spray and know how to use it). Note that as of June 1, 2021, enjoying all of these hikes will also require the purchase of the Kananaskis Conservation Pass .

Here are some of our favourite hikes:

Grassi Lakes – Forests, meadows, waterfalls – and cap it all off with a glimmering turquoise lake? The answer is yes. This 4.3 km trail is great for every skill level and is the perfect hike to do with the family or your trusty canine (or feline😉) companion. It can be done out-and-back or via a loop; we recommend taking the “harder” way up and the “easier” way down. The “harder” way is substantially more scenic but only slightly more difficult.

Ha Ling Peak – One of the top things to do in Canmore, for epic mountain peak views fit for the heartiest ‘scrambler’, head for Ha Ling’s summit. This 7.2 km hike gains you nearly 800m of elevation. If summiting isn’t your game, you can still make it to the Ha Ling Saddle, located 3.5 km in. For an alternate route, take the split in the path to Miner’s Peak and share the trail with far fewer people.

Grotto Creek Canyon – At just over 4 km roundtrip, Grotto Creek is a quick and breezy out-and-back hike. There’s tons of scenery, including forests, gorgeous canyon walls, a creek, and even a charming waterfall. It’s the kind of trail even your hike-hating partner can’t help but like. You can even hike this area in winter! Just be sure to wear ice cleats – when you’re walking directly inside Grotto Canyon, you will literally be on a frozen creek.

Caving in Canmore

Rat’s Nest Cave, a Provincial Historical Resource with significant archaeological importance (including ancient pictographs and 7,000 year old bones) can be explored on this full-day tour . It is one of the longest caves in Canada (at 4km) and is not for the faint of heart. But if you are up for a big adventure underground where you will rappel, crawl, slide, hike uphill, and end at a crystal-clear pool with stalactites and stalagmites – then you WANT to do this!

Bikes Trails in Canmore

Bikes are everywhere in Canmore and in this town, almost any trail can be considered a biking trail. You’ll see cyclists on any of the walking trails we mentioned above (except for the Larch Island Loop).

Canmore Nordic Centre – Craving some adrenaline with your nature? You got it. The Canmore Nordic Centre boasts a network of mountain biking, hiking, and cross-country skiing trails for every skill level, from beginner to advanced. To wind down your day, head out for a relaxed paddleboard on Rundle Forebay .

Banff Legacy Trail – Connecting Canmore with Banff, this 26km paved biking path will make you earn your trip to Banff Brewing . Enjoy gorgeous mountain views on the ride up to Banff, take a wander around town, then head back for a leisurely downhill ride back to Canmore.

Canmore Museums & Galleries

It’s easy to understand why creative minds are drawn to Canmore. If you’re interested in art, you can set your eyes on murals throughout the town or duck into many of the galleries and studios scattered throughout. Our favourites include the Carter-Ryan gallery (owned by two very lovely people) and artsPlace . For something incredibly quirky, take a few minutes to visit the Curbside Museum , but be careful not to walk right by it as this tiny space is easy to miss.

Support the local economy by adding shopping to your “things to do in Canmore” list – options are more than plentiful in this charming mountain town, especially around Main Street (8th Street). With everything from vintage threads at Hello Vintage , to sporting equipment at Switching Gear , you’re bound to find everything you need – and more! If you’re fortunate enough to visit during the summer months, you’ll be delighted on Thursdays at the Canmore Mountain Market where you can find unique local products, art, gifts and more!

Festivals in Canmore

This small mountain town offers big excitement with some renowned festivals. Especially don’t miss the Canmore Folk Music Festival  at the end of July and the Canmore Winter Carnival  in late February for ice carving competitions, beaver tails eating competitions, a fun dog parade, log sawing, and so much more.

Canmore Spas

Sure, mountains inherently offer rejuvenation, but why not treat yourself to a Canmore massage at Bodhi Tree Spa in the Silver Creek Lodge? Their Thai/India-inspired full-service Aveda-concept offers luxury treatments, including massages, body wraps, facials, and mani/pedis.

Or if you’re feeling tight from that recent hike, then head to One Wellness for an in-depth body treatment. Staffed by massage, physio, fitness, and sports medicine therapists, this spa is your one-stop-shop for rejuvenation and repair!

Golfing in Canmore

Every golf course in Canmore will take your breath away with towering mountain views and alpine trees. Golfers have three options that are some of the best Alberta golf courses : Stewart Creek Golf Course , Silver Tip Golf Resort , and the historic Canmore Golf Club which was founded in 1926.

Each course has been sculpted into the Rocky Mountain landscape, each course will give golfers the alpine golfing experience. A word of caution, besides being distracted by all the surrounding beauty, it is recommended to bring bear spray (and know how to use it) in case of a bear encounter on the course.

Downhill Skiing in Canmore

Although there is no official ski hill in Canmore, it is an ideal place to stay (and to apres-ski) for access to all the big hills in Banff National Park and to Nakiska in Kananaskis. 

Here are the distances to the major ski hills in the area:

• Canmore to Mt Norquay – 30km – 30 minutes driving
• Canmore to Sunshine Village – 40km – 30 minutes driving
• Canmore to Lake Louise Ski Resort – 82km – 50 minutes driving
• Canmore to Nakiska – 55km – 45 minutes driving

For more information, check out our full guide to skiing in Alberta .

Cross-Country Skiing in Canmore

Considering that Canada’s Olympic team trains here, it’s easy to understand why cross-country skiing is one of the top things to do in Canmore. The Canmore Nordic Centre is the perfect place for any skill level from beginner to advanced to strap on a set of skis and get in a good workout. There are also plenty of trails to explore on skis throughout the city and surrounding area.

Outdoor Skating

Enjoy the blue-bird skies of winter by grabbing your skates and heading outside – Canmore and the surrounding area have numerous places to go ice skating. Start at the Canmore Town Pond (along 7th Avenue, close to downtown), or if you’re okay with a bit of a drive, head up the Smith Dorrien Trail to Spray Lakes for an exceptionally scenic backdrop as you glide across the frozen ice.

Dog-Sledding

Want a thrilling Rockies experience? Enjoy gliding along pristine mountain trails while others (excitable and run-loving husky dogs!) do all the work. You can snuggle under blankets in the sled, or stand with your feet on rails and help guide the highly-trained dogs along the trail. There are several companies that offer this experience –  Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours  is the most highly-rated in town. (Consider this our top recommendation for a romantic trip in Canmore – book it for Valentine’s Day in February!)

Where to eat in Canmore

It’s a hard task, narrowing down restaurants to recommend in the area, but we hungrily accepted the challenge! We’ve got an entire guide to the best Canmore restaurants , as well as awesome Canmore breakfast spots, but also a smaller selection below. For a relatively small place, the number of delicious options is undoubtedly enticing. One of the most epic things to do in Canmore is just to sit and eat your face off!

Low-lighting combined with Spanish small plates and lively Latin music? That’s a recipe for romance. Bring your favourite someone to Sauvage (formerly known as Tapas Restaurant) for a charming, cozy evening of old-country wines, an intimate atmosphere, and tapas-style plates that will leave you full, but feeling light enough to get up and dance.

Red Rock Pizza

Devour piping hot pizza while you take in the Three Sisters Mountain range on Red Rock’s quaint patio space. Known for their creative twists on classics, like ‘Wicked Chicken’ and our favourite – the ‘Buddha Gouda’ – Red Rock Pizza is a sure hit if pizza is what you’re craving after wandering around downtown Canmore.

Bella Crusta Foods

A local favourite, Bella Crusta makes their own focaccia bread each day for deliciously fresh sandwiches. Also known for its chicken salad, this old-school sandwich shop offers a casual dining experience and is great for those looking for hearty food at a reasonable price. Be sure to try their lemonade, too!

Tavern 1883

This rustic, down-to-earth space is known for its solid service, good food, great drinks, and its cozy atmosphere. Designed around an early 1900’s home, Tavern 1883 feels like you’ve stepped back into the past – but with a much more versatile food and drink menu (thank goodness).

Grizzly Paw

With over 25 years of brewing experience in Canmore, the Grizzly Paw Pub and Brewing Company  is a top place to go if you want to sample some of the best local beer in the Canadian Rockies. Their beer encompasses everything from raspberry wheat ales to a malty red ale. You can also book in advance for a brewery tour! Grizzly Paw also makes their own sodas using cane sugar and mountain-fed water, so you can bring the entire family to enjoy the pub. The restaurant offers standard pub fare of burgers, salads, fish and chips, and more.

Harvest Cafe

Where hearty meets healthy, Harvest Cafe is the spot to hit for a quick and delicious bite. They make all of their soups and sauces (which are always gluten-free) in-house, as well as their freshly baked, ooey-gooey cinnamon buns. Vegan and gluten-free options are available for their wraps and paninis.

If you’re basing yourself in Canmore, you are very near to Banff National Park, so don’t miss out on all the best things to do in Banff .

Chances are, you might be making your way to the mountains after landing at YYC, so we suggest also taking a few days to enjoy all the things to do in Calgary .

And don’t forget about our FREE Road Trip Alberta bingo cards ! They’ll be sure to add another dose of fun to any road trip in this beautiful province.

Dalene Heck is a co-founder of Road Trip Alberta. She was born in Edmonton, grew up in the Peace Country, and has ventured to almost every corner of Alberta and the world (she’s travelled to 60 countries)! She is a serial blogger, the CEO of HMI Marketing , co-creator of the Trip Chaser card game, a leukemia-slayer, and cat whisperer.

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5-Day Canmore Itinerary

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Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: off the beaten path, day 3: northwest side of town, day 4: keep it simple, day 5: proximity is everything, canmore nordic centre.

Quarry Lake Park

Art Country Canada Canmore Gallery

Policeman creek trail, canmore engine bridge, travel alberta canmore visitor information centre, where to eat, murrieta's mountain bar & grill, graze food & drink, the drake pub, mcdonald's.

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Grassi Lakes

Ha ling peak, wild life distillery, canmore cave tours, cougar creek/mount lady macdonald trailhead, the shrine church of our lady of the rockies, upper kananaskis lake, 514 poutine, wagashi tea house, the grande kitchen + bar, iron goat pub & grill.

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Canmore Recreation Centre

Cross zee ranch, curbside museum, fallen leaf art gallery, canmore museum, avens gallery, elevation gallery, canary coffee ltd., the canmore hotel hostel, crazyweed kitchen.

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Whitefish, Bow Valley Provincial Park

Grotto mountain, virginia ann hemingson art gallery, the caen more ("big head" sculpture), canmore art guild gallery, pigeon mountain, canadian rockies rafting - river base, domino's pizza, rose & crown restaurant & pub, gaucho brazilian barbecue, stirling dining room and lounge.

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The Ken Hoehn Gallery

Jeff walker gallery, carter-ryan gallery, canmore nwmp barracks, chef's studio japan, the scoopin' moose, the grizzly paw pub - downtown location.

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Popular road trips from Canmore

What's the weather like in canmore.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Canmore for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Canmore in January
• Weather in Canmore in February
• Weather in Canmore in March
• Weather in Canmore in April
• Weather in Canmore in May
• Weather in Canmore in June
• Weather in Canmore in July
• Weather in Canmore in August
• Weather in Canmore in September
• Weather in Canmore in October
• Weather in Canmore in November
• Weather in Canmore in December

All road trips from Canmore

• Canmore to Las Vegas drive
• Canmore to Calgary drive
• Canmore to Vancouver drive
• Canmore to Seattle drive
• Canmore to San Francisco drive
• Canmore to Los Angeles drive
• Canmore to Chicago drive
• Canmore to Jasper National Park drive
• Canmore to Jasper drive
• Canmore to San Diego drive
• Canmore to Victoria drive
• Canmore to Drumheller drive
• Canmore to Portland drive
• Canmore to Yellowstone National Park drive
• Canmore to Denver drive
• Canmore to Glacier National Park drive
• Canmore to Sedona drive
• Canmore to Yoho National Park drive
• Canmore to Colorado Springs drive
• Canmore to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Canmore to Kelowna drive
• Canmore to Revelstoke drive
• Canmore to Salt Lake City drive
• Canmore to Page drive
• Canmore to Tucson drive
• Canmore to Whistler drive
• Canmore to Phoenix drive
• Canmore to Santa Fe drive
• Canmore to Yosemite National Park drive
• Canmore to Moab drive

Explore nearby places

• Castle Junction
• Kootenay National Park
• Bragg Creek
• Redwood Meadows
• Banff National Park
• Lake Louise
• the Water Valley
• Radium Hot Springs
• Spillimacheen
• Yoho National Park
• Millarville
• the Turner Valley
• Fairmont Hot Springs
• Black Diamond

All related maps of Canmore

• Map of Canmore
• Map of Exshaw
• Map of Banff
• Map of Morley
• Map of Castle Junction
• Map of Eldon
• Map of Kootenay National Park
• Map of Bragg Creek
• Map of Redwood Meadows
• Map of Banff National Park
• Map of Cochrane
• Map of Lake Louise
• Map of Edgewater
• Map of Brisco
• Map of the Water Valley
• Map of Radium Hot Springs
• Map of Spillimacheen
• Map of Priddis
• Map of Cremona
• Map of Invermere
• Map of Yoho National Park
• Map of Windermere
• Map of Millarville
• Map of Field
• Map of the Turner Valley
• Map of Parson
• Map of Calgary
• Map of Fairmont Hot Springs
• Map of Black Diamond
• Map of Sundre
• Map of Panorama

Canmore throughout the year

• Canmore in January
• Canmore in February
• Canmore in March
• Canmore in April
• Canmore in May
• Canmore in June
• Canmore in July
• Canmore in August
• Canmore in September
• Canmore in October
• Canmore in November
• Canmore in December

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Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 5-Day Calgary Itinerary
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• 5-Day Lake Louise Itinerary
• 5-Day Radium Hot Springs Itinerary
• 5-Day Fairmont Hot Springs Itinerary
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Canmore, Alberta: Come for the breathtaking Rockies scenery, stay for the cool mountain vibes

When I first booked a stay in the mountain town of Canmore, Alberta, I planned to use it as a jumping-off point for my adventures in Banff National Park. However, I didn't expect to leave wishing I'd had more time to explore this beautifully sited town at the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Canmore is home to locally owned art galleries, vintage shops, boutiques, parks, walking trails, cafes and breweries, all surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear lakes. The town's rugged, picturesque backdrop was even used as the setting for many scenes in the HBO hit series "The Last of Us."

During my stay, I hiked past a waterfall to one of the most unusual lakes I've ever seen, strolled for hours around the downtown area and enjoyed panoramic views from a rooftop pool. Not to mention, I was able to easily drive to the many attractions in nearby Banff.

Where is Canmore?

Canmore sits about 15 miles southeast of Banff in Canada's Alberta province. It's around 75 miles west of Calgary International Airport (YYC), the closest major airport in the area.

I found the drive relatively simple, coming from the airport's rental car area. You'll spend the majority of the ride traveling west along the Trans-Canada Highway, which passes through mostly flat farmlands until the mountains come into view. I'd recommend renting a car if you want to explore all that Canmore has to offer.

If you'd rather not drive, there are shuttle services from Calgary to Canmore running multiple times a day. On the Banff Airporter , a one-way ticket to Canmore costs about 77 Canadian dollars ($56) for adults, CA$69 ($50) for seniors and CA$38 ($28) for children 6 to 17. On Vivo Green , tickets cost as low as CA$50 ($36).

Where to stay in Canmore

There are plenty of Canmore hotels to choose from. However, most properties in town are boutique hotels or motor lodges, so you'll have to venture farther out to find anywhere that allows you to redeem points. I was staying in town for three nights, so I wanted to check out two different properties — one upscale option and one more budget-friendly option.

You can still maximize your hotel purchase using a travel rewards card, though. Popular options include the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (which earns 2 points per dollar spent on travel), the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card or the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (both earn a flat 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, including hotels) or the Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ), which earns 3 points per dollar on several travel categories, including hotels.

The Malcolm Hotel

The Malcolm Hotel is an upscale lodge-like property just off the town's main street. One of the best and most sought-after hotels in Canmore, I was drawn to the hotel's convenient location, upscale atmosphere and rooftop pool.

Upon entering the lobby, I noticed massive gold light fixtures and an equally massive fireplace surrounded by dark carpeting, stone accents and leather chairs.

After checking in, I headed to The Pulse General Store and Coffee Bar in the lobby for a pick-me-up. The shop offers made-to-order coffee, light bites, small souvenirs and any toiletry items you may have forgotten.

The hotel's 124 guest rooms feature high ceilings, glass showers with luxurious toiletries, cozy bathrobes, hotel-branded slippers and accents that make the room feel homey. In my double-queen room, the beds were comfortable, and there was plenty of storage space for luggage. The balcony, which featured a seating area and provided views of the nearby mountain range, was my favorite feature.

On the second floor, there's a fitness center and an entertainment area with a pool table, foosball table, giant Scrabble board and collection of board games. From this floor, guests can also access the fitness center, the heated outdoor pool, two hot tubs and a fire pit area.

The highlight of my stay was the rooftop pool deck where I enjoyed stunning mountain vistas while relaxing and swimming.

The rooftop area is also home to the chef's garden, which supplies some of the produce used downstairs in the on-site restaurant, The Stirling Dining Room and Lounge. In the warm-weather months, the restaurant's creekside patio is the perfect place to enjoy a snack or a drink.

The hotel offers prime access to the main street, yet it's set back in a quiet area. However, during my stay, signs indicated that a new hotel is set to be built right next door, meaning potential construction noise.

Standard king room rates at The Malcolm Hotel range from CA$150 ($109) per night in the offseason to about CA$400 ($290) in the peak season. Some dates require a minimum two-night stay. Free underground or street parking is available.

Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre

Coast Canmore Hotel sits off Route 1A, about a 10-minute walk from Canmore's main street. I wanted to check this property out because it's a bit more affordable than The Malcolm and because there's a Roam bus stop right in front that can bring visitors to Banff.

There are stone accents all around the lobby as well as plenty of seating. I found front desk staff members to be friendly, enthusiastic and happy to give advice about the best area activities.

From the lobby, you can walk through the courtyard and parking lot area to reach the indoor pool and hot tub space, as well as the fitness center. The lobby restaurant, Table Food and Drink, has indoor seating as well as an outdoor patio. Down the hall, there are also multiple conference rooms. Both the restaurant and conference rooms were rented out to wedding parties during my stay.

Related: Why you should absolutely visit the Fairmont Banff Springs — but maybe not spend the night

Upstairs, my double-queen room featured patterned black-and-gray wallpaper behind the beds and a light faux-wood accent wall. There's a small seating area with a table and chairs beside sliding doors that open up to a false balcony. You also have the option to book a room with a patio if you desire.

The bathroom was on the small side but was fine for a short stay with two people. If you're just looking for a place to rest your head after a long day of outdoor adventuring, the rooms at Coast Canmore do the job.

Next to the hotel is a plaza with some fast-casual restaurants, a coffee shop, a convenience store and a liquor store.

Standard king room rates go for about CA$115 ($83) per night during the offseason and nearly CA$400 ($290) per night during peak season. If you visit during a popular time, the hotel can be pretty expensive for what you get. If you find Coast's prices are comparable to those of The Malcolm Hotel when you're booking, the latter offers a nicer experience with better amenities.

Other lodging options

Some other popular boutique hotels in Canmore include Basecamp Lodge Canmore, Solara Resort by Bellstar Hotels, Stoneridge Mountain Resort and Blackstone Mountain Lodge by Clique.

If you'd rather stay in a vacation rental or apartment-style property, you're in luck. Unlike the town of Banff — where strict zoning laws limit many short-term vacation rentals — Canmore has plenty of condos and rental properties. Check the town's rental website or search Airbnb, Vrbo or a similar platform.

Where to eat in Canmore

There are plenty of Canmore restaurants to enjoy, including many on and around 8th Avenue — the town's main street.

For a quick caffeine fix, head to Eclipse Coffee Roasters, Blondies Cafe or Beamer's Coffee Bar. I also thought the lattes from the charming Bicycle Cafe (which triples as a plant store and a bicycle repair shop) were great.

Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. and J.K. Bakery are solid spots for a quick breakfast and coffee before a hike. If you're looking for more of a sit-down breakfast, brunch or lunch, consider Chez Francois Restaurant. Communitea Cafe is also a good option for healthy lunch fare.

After a long day exploring the great outdoors, Canmore can more than satisfy your dinnertime cravings. Since the weather was nice during my visit, we headed to the casual outdoor patio at The Wood to enjoy an appetizer and cocktail while admiring the surrounding mountains. The strawberry spinach salad with spicy pecans (CA$22 or $16) was a nice light bite alongside a Moscow mule (CA$12 or $9) and a glass of sangria (CA$14 or $10).

Dinner at Murrieta's Mountain Bar & Grill was a standout experience, thanks to the service, cozy atmosphere and, of course, the warm homemade focaccia (CA$6 or $4). We also sampled the maple chili glazed Brussels sprouts (CA$16 or $12), the mushroom flatbread (CA$23 or $17) and a trio of dips that included eggplant, red pepper feta and roasted garlic hummus (CA$18 or $13).

The restaurant also has a huge wine selection and a cocktail menu, and the peach bourbon smash and the maple bourbon sour — each CA$16 ($12) — were nicely executed.

The Malcolm Hotel's on-site restaurant, Stirling Dining Room and Lounge, offers a similar vibe as well as outdoor creekside seating in the warm weather. Iron Goat Pub & Grill, about a five-minute drive from downtown, is also worth a stop if you're in search of nice ambience and mountain vistas.

Definitely make time to visit Where the Buffalo Roam Saloon, whether to eat dinner or just to enjoy an expertly crafted cocktail in an aesthetically pleasing space. We sat at the bar and ordered the High Violet — gin, grapefruit, honey vanilla syrup, lime and lavender bitters — and the East Tea — Japanese whisky, green tea, lemongrass ginger syrup and lime — for CA$16 ($12) each.

If you prefer beer, find local brews alongside panoramic mountain views at Blake Brewhouse and Distillery as well as at The Grizzly Paw Pub and Brewing Company's third-floor lounge Tank310.

There are a few fast-food chains in town — such as Dominoes, A&W and Subway — for those too exhausted from exploring to think about dinner, as well as multiple grocery stores within walking distance where you can stock up on snacks before a hike.

Things to do in Canmore during the summer

If you're coming to the Canadian Rockies to hike, you will revel in the opportunities that Canmore and nearby Kananaskis Country provide. The trails here are pristine and far less trafficked than those in Banff.

Even after seeing all that Banff had to offer, the 2-mile Grassi Lakes hike in Canmore was one of the best parts of my trip. On the journey up, I passed by cascading waterfalls and could look down over the Rundle Forebay Reservoir. Then, after climbing some sets of steep stairs, multiple neon lakes — the color of which I don't think I've ever really seen in nature before — were waiting to greet me.

Walking trails circle the lakes, so you can take in the view from every angle. (You'll also likely witness climbers ascending and rappelling down the surrounding mountains.) It's a family-friendly hike and easy for a morning excursion. Pro tip : Start the loop trail on the left to enjoy constant scenery on the way up and a more paved, less rocky path on the way down.

Ptarmigan Cirque and Troll Falls are other easy area trails. If you're looking for something longer and more challenging, consider the Ha Ling Peak, Galatea Lakes or Sarrail Ridge via Rawson Lake trails.

Swim in Quarry Lake

Unless you visit in July or August, the water in Quarry Lake won't be warm enough to swim in for more than a few minutes. Even so, I decided to take a quick dip in the icy lake in mid-September, which was both fun and rejuvenating.

Even if you don't swim, Quarry Lake is the perfect place to come relax, mingle with locals or just enjoy the mountain scenery. There are plenty of picnic tables on the grassy area beside the lake as well as a gravel walking trail around the water. If you have pets in tow, there is also a large dog park near the parking lot. The easiest way to get here is by driving, but since it's just more than a mile from downtown Canmore, you could definitely walk or bike as well.

Go for a stroll

Travelers who aren't in the mood to hike but still want to explore on foot can enjoy the multiple scenic walking paths in Canmore.

From Riverside Park, walk the Higashikawa Friendship Trail along the turquoise waters of the Bow River to reach the Canmore Engine Bridge. This is where the bridge scene from "The Last of Us" was filmed, so fans can snap a photo of where Ellie and Joel stood. (The entire town of Canmore was used as the setting for Jackson, Wyoming, in the show, so you might recognize some other spots as well.)

Another solid walking option is Policeman's Creek. This 2.5-mile out-and-back boardwalk path runs alongside the creek and weaves through forested areas. It's the perfect setting for a morning stroll before getting coffee or breakfast in town.

Take a guided tour

Travelers in need of an adrenaline rush should consider taking a guided adventure tour in the Canmore area.

You can book a whitewater rafting trip through Discover Banff Tours. Guides will bring you down the Kananaskis River for Class 3 rapids, through Horseshoe Canyon for Class 3 to 4 rapids, or along the Kicking Horse River for Class 4 rapids. Prices usually start at CA$120 ($87) per adult.

Or, explore the world beneath Canmore on an underground cave tour through Rat's Nest Cave — one of Canada's longest caves at about 2.5 miles. It sits about 4 miles east of Canmore. Learn about the caves' formation from your Canmore Cave Tours guide, discover fossils, and descend past stalagmites and stalactites to eventually reach an underground grotto. Tours normally last at least four or five hours and cost CA$150 ($109) or more per person.

If the sky is more your style, opt for a helicopter sightseeing tour above the Three Sisters — the area's famous mountain trio — or Mount Assiniboine. Prices depend on the length of your tour but start at around CA$290 ($210) per person.

Browse the art galleries and shops

Just by walking around town, you can tell Canmore is a haven for artists. There are colorful murals on the sides of buildings, and the streets of downtown are brimming with art galleries. They feature work by local artists, and the friendly gallery owners all seemed very eager to share the art with patrons. Even if you don't plan on purchasing any art, their enthusiasm lends an overall excitement to the browsing experience.

At Carter-Ryan Gallery and Live Art Venue, you can admire the paintings of Indigenous artist Jason Carter and even catch a theater production if you visit on a show day. Visit Elevation Gallery for a look at some modern art, Avens Gallery for mixed media art by Western Canadian artists and All in the Wild gallery for nature photography highlighting the Canadian wilderness.

It's also worth stopping at the Canmore Museum to see some more art as well as other exhibits about the area's history.

After you've gotten your fill of artwork, pop into the eccentric bookstore, Cafe Books (one of my favorite stops), to browse some unique titles, or head to Rocky Mountain Soap Company for handcrafted soaps and skincare products.

(These spots are open year-round, so you can enjoy them in the winter months as well.)

Things to do in Canmore during the winter

Embrace your inner olympian at the canmore nordic centre.

The Canmore Nordic Centre was constructed to host the cross-country skiing events for the 1988 Winter Olympics. Nowadays, it's used as a recreational center where anyone can go cross-country skiing.

It boasts 40 miles of both groomed and natural snow trails, leading all the way to the base of Canmore's majestic Mount Rundle. Off one of the trails, you'll find a warming hut to relax in if the cold gets to be too much.

Other fun winter activities here include fat biking, tobogganing, ice skating and winter disc golf.

If you flew to Canmore and didn't bring any sports equipment, you can easily get some at the on-site rental facility. There is also a lodge space where you'll find Olympic paraphernalia as well as a dining area.

The center also offers various summer activities, such as disc golf, mountain biking, orienteering, roller skiing and more.

Hit the slopes

Of course, the world-class skiing opportunities are the main draw to the Canadian Rockies in the winter. The area's three most sought-after mountains are Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village Ski Resort and Lake Louise. These ski resorts are about 20, 25 and 50 miles from downtown Canmore, respectively.

If you don't have a car, you can take the Canmore-to-Banff regional Roam shuttle. In Banff, you can transfer to the line of whichever ski mountain you want to visit.

While these three mountains undoubtedly offer some of the best skiing in the area (and in the country), there's another hidden gem near Canmore: Nakiska Ski Area in nearby Kananaskis Country. It's a much smaller mountain than those in Banff, making it ideal for beginner and intermediate skiers. There are 79 marked trails served by four chair lifts and two magic carpets.

The mountain's smaller size means the lift tickets are worlds away from the Big 3 in terms of price. Nakiska is the perfect place to visit with younger children. It'll take about 30 to 40 minutes to reach the mountain from downtown Canmore.

As mentioned above, Canmore Nordic Centre offers a free ice skating rink. If you'd rather bring your skates to a different part of town, there are multiple other options.

The Canmore town pond is open for ice skating throughout the winter. You can enjoy the mountain views while you glide across the ice. It's conveniently on 7th Avenue and Mallard Alley, just off the main stretch.

If you want to go somewhere a little more remote and picturesque, bring your skates about 9 miles from downtown to Goat Pond.

There are plenty of tour opportunities during the winter months, just as there are in the summer.

Embark on a dog sledding tour along the snowy mountain trails to take in the scenery and admire your team of huskies. Multiple companies — such as Howling Dog Tours and Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours — offer these excursions, and prices normally start at about CA$250 ($181) per person.

You can also scale a giant frozen waterfall on an ice-climbing tour with Yamnuska Mountain Adventures. These tours start at about CA$350 ($253) per climber. The tour operator also offers guided backcountry skiing adventures.

For travelers who prefer to adopt more of an après-ski approach to the chilly season, you could opt for a distillery or brewery tour in town. Buy a CA$55 ($40) ticket on the Mountain City Brew Bus and get whisked away to sample the area's best brews and spirits.

The aforementioned helicopter and cave tours are also available in the winter months.

How to get around Canmore and Banff

For those who rent a car, getting around Canmore is simple. There is free street parking along many of the main roads as well as at many area hotels. If you park at Grassi Lake trailhead, the Quarry Lake parking lot or other similar spots before an outdoor excursion, you'll usually have to pay a few dollars on a parking app.

It's a 20-minute drive to Banff National Park from Canmore. There is a massive free parking lot near downtown Banff, and you can leave your car there for up to nine hours while you explore the park. The lot is about an eight-minute walk from Banff's main street, where there are plenty of restaurants and shops as well as access to park buses. You can also opt to leave your car in a paid lot and be even closer to the town.

If you take the shuttle from the airport to Canmore instead of renting a car, you can easily get around town on foot. Then, when you want to head to Banff, take the regional Roam shuttle bus, which has eight stops in Canmore and five stops in Banff. One-way adult fares start at CA$6 ($4.34).

There are also bike lanes and cycling trails in the surrounding area. In town, bike repair shops and bike rental places abound. When the weather is nice, many people cycle the 15 miles from downtown Canmore to Banff on the Banff Legacy Trail, which stretches alongside the highway.

Choosing between Banff and Canmore

Banff is a picture-perfect ski town, hugged by mountains and filled with inviting restaurants. Its streets are lined with souvenir shops and candy stores, and even in September, it was filled to the brim with tourists.

The town is designed with visitors in mind, so it's perfectly walkable and has an array of dining options. It's difficult to find overnight parking here, but you don't need a car if you commit to taking the buses and shuttles.

There are bus stops right on Banff's main street, and the buses will efficiently transport you to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and many other park attractions. Staying close to these shuttle stops is especially convenient if you're in town to ski.

Canmore also attracts its fair share of out-of-towners, but, in my opinion, the downtown area feels more like a real town than a storybook village. The many locally owned establishments and seasonal events give Canmore a strong sense of community. You won't find endless souvenir shops here like you do in Banff; instead, you'll find stores with artisan goods, plants, books and art.

Not to mention, many of the hikes and outdoor activities in Canmore are more enjoyable because they are not as oversubscribed as in Banff. (Plus, restaurant wait times won't be nearly as long in the peak seasons.) While accommodations are still quite expensive in Canmore, the rates are usually a little lower than those in Banff. It's nice to have a rental car during your stay here to explore more off-the-beaten-path attractions, though, which could cancel out some savings.

If you want the most convenient trip possible, are traveling just to ski the Big 3 mountains or only have the desire to explore the national park, Banff is for you.

If you're not strapped for time and want a more authentic Canadian mountain town experience filled with art and plenty of natural scenery, Canmore is the place to be. This is especially true if you have already been to Banff or are interested in exploring other regions of beautiful Alberta.

After staying for just a few days, I realized Canmore deserves to be a vacation destination in itself — its proximity to Banff is just the cherry on top.

Related reading:

• 3rd time's the charm: Finally taking a Canadian dream trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper
• Why you should absolutely visit the Fairmont Banff Springs — but maybe not spend the night
• Completing a journey 50 years in the making
• TPG's guide to Canada's provinces and territories: Where to visit, how to get there and where to stay