Canmore & Kananaskis | Canada's Alberta

The Kananaskis region wraps around the town of Canmore, and together they satisfy any adventurous appetite. Some may prefer the trendy Canmore, with elevated cuisine, shop-lined streets and popular trails. Those seeking undisturbed wilderness may gravitate towards Kananaskis—one of Alberta’s mountain playgrounds.

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At a glance

Southwest Alberta
Closest airport: Calgary International Airport
14,370 population
Tourism Canmore Kananaskis

Natural beauty with no one around

Part of the Canadian Rockies, Canmore and Kananaskis offer forests, mountains, lakes and rivers as beautiful as Banff’s but with fewer crowds.

Outdoor thrills in all directions

Access a playground of outdoor activities. From biking and camping to skiing and snowboarding, unique ventures await every season and skill level.

Mountain community culture

Tour art galleries, shop locally made goods and attend traditional workshops before enjoying a night on the town with the locals.

Welcome to Canmore & Kananaskis

You can’t experience one without the other. Originally a coal mining town, Canmore is nestled within the stunning mountain region of Kananaskis. The area abounds with forests, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, glaciers and seemingly endless paths and trails on which to explore it all.

Many pass through on their way to the neighbouring Banff National Park, but once you see the uncrowded streets and craggy peaks of Canmore and Kananaskis, your Wild Side will beg you to stay awhile.

Scenic shot of man fly fishing in a lake surrounded by mountains at sunset in Kananaskis Country. — Fish bull, cutthroat and rainbow trout in Kananaskis Country.

Three men on the green golfing at the Canmore Silvertip Golf Course in the Canadian Rockies. — Play a round on Canmore’s manicured Silvertip Resort.

Four friends and a guide in snowshoes looking up at the night sky featuring the forest, mountains and stars.

Things to do

Bike, hike, snowshoe and more in this year-round adventure mecca in the Canadian Rockies.

Canmore Nordic Centre

This year-round sports park provides lessons and rentals so you can try everything from cross-country skiing to fat biking to disc golf.

Pedego Electric Bikes Canmore

Rent an electric bike and explore Canmore’s trail system or head to Banff on the Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail.

Grassi Lakes Trail

Take a gentle incline towards a spectacular turquoise lake. This short trail is great for families and is one of Canmore's most popular hikes.

Ice walking through Grotto Canyon

Grotto Canyon

Travel ten minutes from Canmore to hike past ancient etchings on canyon walls as you make your way to a waterfall.

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Places to eat

Elegant restaurants, down-to-earth breweries and family-friendly locales have a seat at the table for you.

Two ladies enjoying lunch with a mountain view in the background

Crazyweed

Sit for a satisfying plate in an unpretentious atmosphere you can enjoy with your hiking boots on.

Rustica Steakhouse at Silvertip Resort

Enjoy exquisite dishes, noteworthy wine selections and exceptional views of Silvertip’s world-renowned golf course.

BLAKE

Have a drink, meal or bowl of made-in-house ice cream at this brewhouse and distillery set in a converted garage.

Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co.

After exploring the mountains, stop by for a pizza made with local organic produce and free-range organic meats.

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Places to stay

Whether you stay in Canmore or Kananaskis, epic mountain views and welcoming locals will make it an unforgettable experience.

Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge

Stay in the heart of Kananaskis Country at a mountain lodge with an indoor waterpark and the Nordic Spa.

Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino

Enjoy casino gaming and family-friendly amenities right off the highway and at the base of the Canadian Rockies.

The Drake Inn

Located in Canmore, this affordable and friendly home-away-from-home is attached to The Drake Pub.

Paintbox Lodge

Rest your head in downtown Canmore. This intimate boutique hotel offers five unique, comfortable suites.

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Choose your own adventure

Free your Wild Side upon the streets, streams and summits of Canmore & Kananaskis.

Three people explore the waters of Quarry Lake on stand-up paddleboards.

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Explore Our Landscapes: A Summer Weekend in Canmore and Kananaskis

Enjoy a 3-day weekend in Canmore and Kananaskis, exploring the beautiful landscapes of mountains, forests and water.

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Landscapes and Cultural Discovery

Immerse yourself in a culturally-infused journey punctuated with remarkable landscapes, historic sites and natural wonders.

Person hiking in Lake Louise

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Cities, Mountains and Dinosaurs

Get ready for an adventurous 10-day road trip that starts in the city of Edmonton, takes you through the Rocky Mountains and finishes in the Badlands.

Car driving ice fields parkway

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Epic Alberta

Enjoy two exhilarating weeks in Alberta, exploring the mountains, lakes and wildlife in the Canadian Rockies, hiking, and getting to know Calgary and Edmonton.

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A couple hikes across rocks along a lake with larch trees and mountains in the background.

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Alberta’s Kananaskis Country is Having Its Moment

One of the most amazing mountain parks in the Canadian Rockies is a local favourite that you’ve likely seen on TV. Head to Kananaskis Country for spellbinding scenery and adventures.

People having a meal at a table outside with a mountain and trees in the background.

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Five Ways to Enjoy Kananaskis if You Aren't Outdoorsy

Kananaskis is just a short drive from Calgary where you can relax at a spa, lodge, dine or just unplug amid the stunning mountain scenery.

A couple stand up paddle boarding on a river during a hot summers day with a focus on the stream ahead.

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Where to Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Alberta

Picture yourself stand-up paddleboarding against a breathtaking backdrop. Grab a paddleboard and head to one of Alberta’s lakes and rivers to learn or perfect your skill.

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Awesome Summer Family Adventures in Kananaskis Valley

Spectacular Kananaskis Valley is just a short drive from Calgary and perfect for all kinds of family fun: hiking, horseback riding, picnic, paddleboarding and camping.