Best Things to Do in Canmore This Fall
Canmore is a vibrant mountain town in the heart of the Rockies with soaring mountains and breathtaking glacier-fed rivers. Whether you want to relax, explore, or just have some quality time with the kids, Canmore has something for everybody – from unforgettable outdoor adventures to mouth-watering culinary delights and arts and culture.
Summer may be coming to an end, but fall fun is already underway in Canmore with just as many thrilling activities to explore, plus you can enjoy it all without the summer crowds. Here are our favourite ways to experience fall in Canmore, so consider this your bucket list!
Go on an Unforgettably Beautiful Larch Hike
There's no better way to experience Canmore’s sheer natural beauty than with a world-renowned larch hike. Visitors from all over the world come to witness this spectacular event every year. Larch trees are coniferous, but their needles turn a stunning yellow in the early fall and then drop later in October. There are five incredible larch hikes you can take in Canmore that'll get you right into the heart of the Kananaskis park system, and they are:
- Mt. Lorette Ponds – Located on Hwy 40 (Kananaskis Trail). Also great for picnic or fishing.
- Chester Lake – Lake is located on Spray Lakes Road and has an idyllic 8km Larch hike.
- Burstall Pass – The hike to Burstall Pass is an iconic route and has a great trail for intermediate hikers.
- Rawson Lake – A perfect moderate hike just past upper Kananaskis Lake. This trail ends at a beautiful alpine lake.
- Ptarmigan Cirque – This hike has a steep initial ascent but once the trail levels out you are surrounded by spectacular mountains and larch trees.
Take a Ride Down the Bow River with Canmore River Adventures
Once you’ve soaked in all the colours of fall, try switching up your pace and float down the Bow River with Canmore River Adventures. Surrounded by inspiring landscapes, this gentle float will take you through stunning glacial blue waters, awe-inspiring mountains and wildlife as stories of local history are being told.
Photo: Canmore River Adventures
Imagine yourself floating down the iconic Bow River on a beautiful sunny day in early fall watching the eagles fly by above, and maybe even catching a glimpse of a deer, elk, or even bear! Now how perfect does that sound?
Saddle Up and Explore the Rockies on Horseback
Another great way to discover the area’s hidden gems is on horseback at Boundary Ranch, which specializes in guided rides for beginners and experienced equestrians alike.
Photo: Boundary Ranch
You can truly interact with the great outdoors and experience the real west in the Kananaskis Valley as you gallop through scenic trails. Get into the saddle and have a fun-filled day creating long-lasting memories with your loved ones.
Be Sure to Check Out the City’s Artisan Distiller
If you start to get tired from all the fresh mountain air, then step inside for a truly local experience at Wild Life Distillery. Wild Life Distillery is Canmore’s first craft distillery and 100% of the spirits are produced onsite using Albertan ingredients. They use fresh mountain water and local grains to produce small-batch vodka and gin, and you can get your very own sample at their tasting bar after a daily tour. Smell, swirl and sip away!
Photo: Wildlife Distillery
Get Some of the Best Eats in Downtown Canmore
Canmore leaves everyone wanting more when it comes to delicious food. Take a stroll down Main Street in downtown Canmore and you can find a plethora of dining options to satisfy your cravings. If you're looking for something that’s tasty and convenient, then check out Table Food + Drink for some traditional-meets-contemporary food. The food is prepared using the best ingredients, including fresh herbs and veggies from the restaurant’s patio garden. Join them every day for happy hour between 3 and 6 pm or check out their weekly features. The restaurant is located at the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre.
Where to Stay in Canmore
The Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre is just five minutes from downtown Canmore, and it’s only a quick 25-minute trip to Banff. The hotel is also pet-friendly, which means you don’t need to worry about leaving your furry friends behind! The newly renovated guest rooms are clean and comfortable, and you'll get access to all the great amenities, including the indoor pool and hot tub, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary parking.
Canmore is the perfect location for a relaxing and fun mountain getaway with the family, and it’s less crowded than some of Alberta’s other tourist destinations. There's something great here for every member of the family, and the friendly staff at the Coast Canmore Hotel and Conference Centre can help you with booking adventures, finding restaurants, and otherwise making sure your trip is comfortable and fun-filled. Book your stay today!