Staying in Canmore: Where to Stay + Why It’s Worth It | Canadian Rockies
Visited: August 2018, august 2021, june 2022🟢 Easy: 0–50 m per km
🟡 Moderate: 50–100 m per km
🟠 Difficult: 100–150 m per km
🔴 Challenging: 150–225 m per km
⚫ Expert: 225+ m per km
Note: I use elevation gain per kilometre as a baseline, but I’ll bump a rating up if the track gets tricky — think roots, loose scree, uneven rocks, or exposed sections. Steepness is only part of the story.
Visiting the Canadian Rockies? I highly recommend staying in Canmore. Not only is it the perfectly located base for your adventures, but the town itself has so much to offer too. During each of my three visits to the Rockies, I’ve stayed in Canmore — and loved it every time!
If you enjoy travelling to places that have a strong feeling of community, plus incredible views to boost, this is the perfect place for you!
Policeman’s Creek Trail
Why Stay in Canmore
Not only is Canmore’s location incredibly convenient — 1 hour 15 minutes by car from the Calgary International Airport (YYC), and about 10 minutes from the Banff National Park gate via the Trans-Canada Highway — it also has the perfect blend of lived-in charm and tourist-friendly comforts.
The town is the perfect location to base yourself, especially if you’re planning to explore more of the Canadian Rockies than just Banff. With countless accommodations, you are sure to find one that suits your budget and space needs!
In the past, we’ve stayed at the Lodges at Canmore during most of our visits. They offer apartment style accommodations that are well-equipped with everything you need.
What to Do
Bow River Loop
Time: <1 hour return
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Loop
Distance: 2.1 kilometres
Elevation Gain: 64 metres
View from the old railway bridge
The well-maintained, gravelly trail remains relatively flat along the route and crosses the Bow River over the picturesque, old railway bridge. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way. Despite being in town, animal sightings are not unusual. We’ve seen elk from the old bridge as well as signs warning of recent bear sightings. Even if you plan to stick to well-travelled paths, remember to brush up on your bear safety basics.
→ New to hiking? Start here: Hiking 101. Learn how to choose trails, the basics of wildlife encounters, and what to pack (without overdoing it).
Three Sisters Viewpoint*
Time: <1 hour return
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Out-and-back/Loop
Distance: 1 kilometre
Elevation Gain: 22 metres
One of the most famous views of the Canadian Rockies — even if you didn’t realize it. This three-peak mountain range stands proudly beside Canmore, welcoming you to the gateway of the Rockies. The short trail brings you to the iconic viewpoint.
Policeman’s Creek Trail
Time: 1-1.5 hour return
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Out-and-back
Distance: 4.2 kilometres
Elevation Gain: 84 metres
An easy stroll through a quiet part of town along the creek. The perfect route to enjoy with your morning coffee in the earlier hours of the day. The trail is well maintained, and with a few benches along the way if you want to stop and enjoy the view
Stop at the Big Head
Just off of the Policeman’s Creek Trail you might notice a big head sticking halfway out of the ground. This granite carved statue is a nod to the town’s name being of Scottish Gaelic origin, which translates to “great head”. Locals have been known to accessorize it, with weather appropriate attire in the colder months.
Shopping on Main Street (8 Street)
If you’re hoping to purchase some souvenirs, a forgotten hiking item, or are just wanting to spend some time window shopping, Main Street is the place to go! And as you wander the street, you can enjoy the view of East Rundle in the distance!
Some places to check out:
Mountain Mercantile
One-stop shop for some unique souvenirs — many of which are locally made, and we love supporting local businesses/artists!Café Books
An independent and locally owned bookshop (a dying breed in the world of e-readers). They carry everything from new releases to rare editions, as well as some fun book-inspired trinkets! I purchased some subtle Lord of the Rings Christmas tree ornaments from them.The Fudgery Canmore*
I’m not a huge fan of fudge and similar sweets, but if you are, stop in for some fresh, handmade treats while you’re here!Art Galleries
It’s impossible to name just one, because they all have some beautiful art done by local artists. Many of the pieces show the inspiring landscapes of the Rockies and would make a great souvenir if you’re already on the hunt for some art for your home!
Attend Public Community Events
Check out the community events page for Canmore to see what’s happening during your visit! We attended a community BBQ once, with live music and great food.
Where to Eat
The Summit Cafe
Every morning they have fresh baked scones available — but they sell out fast! Arrive right at open if you want to guarantee yourself some of these delicious treats. We picked some up with coffees and drove over to the Policeman’s Creek Trail for a morning stroll.
They are a little out of the way, located on the less touristy side of the Trans-Canada Highway, making them a true hidden gem.
Canadian Pizza Unlimited
Low-key, takeaway pizza — perfect if you want to stay in or take your dinner somewhere with a view! Pizza’s are made to order so consider calling ahead if you don’t want to wait around while it cooks.
Iron Goat Pub & Grill
Also nestled into the more residential side of Canmore, you’ll find the Iron Goat — indoor and outdoor seating, complete with incredible mountain views. What’s not to love?
What to try? We loved the wild game burger and duck wings.
View from our table at the Iron Goat Pub & Grill
Rocky Mountain Bagel Company*
From-scratch bagels, made by hand. I’ve not been, but they’re extremely popular and have been around since 1995. If there’s a line, don’t let that deter you — it moves fast according to reviews!
If you’re not a bagel person (I mean, that would be crazy, because how can you not be) they also have a selection of baked goods, wraps, and more!
Beyond Canmore
You can’t really come to Canmore and not explore the surrounding parks in the Canadian Rockies! Nearest to this beautiful town are the famous Banff National Park and the locally loved Kananaskis Country.
Consider renting a bike and pedalling along the Rocky Mountain Legacy Trail — a paved, well-maintained, 20.3 kilometre (12.61 mi.) route between Canmore and Banff Town. The ride will take most people upwards of one and a half hours (one way) depending on their abilities and number of breaks along the way.
A little further away you will find Yoho and Kootenay Parks which can also be reached easily while staying in Canmore.
