Top 10 Winter Activities in Canmore
With snow-covered peaks and crisp, cool air, visiting Canmore in the winter is a magical experience. There’s so much to do, too, whether that’s dog-sledding, skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing at the world famous Canmore Nordic Centre, going on a guided canyon ice walk or painting some pottery at a local studio.
With the peak of winter going from December to March, staying at the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre puts you right in the middle of all the action. Here, we’ll tell you about the best winter activities in Canmore and what makes them so special:
Key Takeaways
- Peak winter season in Canmore runs from December to March. Book dog sledding and guided ice walks early, especially over the Christmas holidays.
- You don’t have to ski to enjoy winter here. Snowshoeing, canyon ice walks, hot springs and pottery painting are good for any age or fitness level.
- The Canmore Nordic Centre is a budget-friendly choice for groups, with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating and fat biking in one spot.
- Pack layers and check the forecast, because Rockies weather changes fast. Bring a Kananaskis Conservation Pass for Kananaskis and a Parks Canada pass for Banff.
- You don’t need a car. ROAM Transit and ski shuttles connect Canmore to Banff and the major resorts.
Top Canmore Winter Activities You Can’t Miss!
When you arrive in Canmore, it’s hard not to indulge in the scenery in this closely-knit town. You’re away from the concrete jungle, and finally, the only thing close to a high rise you see are the mountains, including Mount Rundle, Three Sisters, and Grotto Mountain. Although most mountains are a summer climb, that doesn’t mean there are no winter activities in Canmore. We guarantee that you’ll find things to do that are just as exciting as the activities you enjoy in the summer.
Find out below the top winter activities in Canmore you can enjoy this season.
All prices are in Canadian dollars and reflect the 2026/27 winter season. Rates can change, so check with each operator before booking.
1. Dog Sledding
Where to go: Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours or Howling Dog Tours
How to book: It’s best to book online and in-advance at either of the operators’ websites
How much does it cost: Between $300 and $500 CAD per person
Best for: Guests looking for a unique adventure who may not be experienced with other winter sports
Canmore is one of the most popular places in the Rockies for dog sledding, and we know all about the best dog sledding Canmore tours for our guests. The peak season for this adventure is from December through March, when there’s plenty of snow on the trails. Anyone looking to book during busy vacation times like the Christmas holidays should be sure to book in advance, as spots are limited and it’s one of the most popular Canmore winter activities.
Winter lovers are guaranteed the best experience with professional mushers, friendly dogs, and a range of tours to choose from.
2. Skiing and Snowboarding at Nearby Resorts
Where to go: Nakiska Ski Area, Sunshine Village, Mount Norquay or Lake Louise Ski and Snowboard Area
How to book: Lift tickets can be purchased in the base areas of any of the resorts or online at their websites
How much does it cost: Between $60 for children and $185 CAD for adults
Best for: Anyone from experienced skiers and riders to beginners
The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the best ski and snowboard resorts in the world and guests come from every corner of the planet to rip down the slopes every winter. For experts, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise feature incredible high-alpine, challenging runs. They’re great for families, too, with large learning areas.
Mount Norquay and Nakiska both have lots of challenging terrain, too, but are famous for their family-friendly charm. You’ll be able to rent ski and snowboard gear at any of the resorts, but you can also pick it up at stores in Canmore like Chateau Mountain Sports and Canmore Ski Rentals.
3. Snowshoeing
Where to go: Canmore Nordic Centre snowshoe loop or one of many easy hikes near Canmore
How to book: Booking is usually not needed, although Kananaskis Outfitters does do guided snowshoe hikes
How much does it cost: An adult day pass is $20 at the Canmore Nordic Centre. A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is also required for hikes in the provincial parks nearby.
Best for: People of all ages.
Not hitting the ski slopes this winter? Then, you might be interested in snowshoeing.
Snowshoeing may sound like a walk in the park, but depending on the trail you choose, it can be a challenging sport. If you’re interested in healthy cardiovascular fitness, this is the perfect winter activity in Canmore for you.
It’s a great way to experience the mountains, though, and snowshoeing takes very little time for most people to master. Popular trails like the snowshoeing loop at the Canmore Nordic Centre, Black Prince Cirque in nearby Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and Troll Falls all offer spectacular scenery and family-friendly trails, and you can rent snowshoes from GearUp Sports or Kananaskis Outfitters.
4. Exploring the Canmore Nordic Centre
Where to go: 1988 Olympic Way, just 3.5 kilometres outside Canmore
How to book: Passes can be purchased at the day lodge at the Nordic Centre
How much does it cost: $20 for adults, $15 for seniors (65 and over) and youth (12-17), $10 for children (6-11) and free for kids under 5 years old
Best for: Families looking to get active for a much lower cost than alpine skiing
Not sure what you want to do, or you want to do too much in one day? The Canmore Nordic Centre offers a wide range of activities, especially for cross-country ski lovers. Ice skating and tobogganing are among the most child-friendly options.
The Canmore Nordic Centre is a great option if you’re travelling with a larger group and have different preferences for winter activities in Canmore. You can choose from the following fun activities:
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Ice skating
- Fat biking
5. Guided Canyon Ice Walk
Where to go: Canmore Adventures and Canmore Raft Tours both offer guided walks up Grotto Canyon, while Discover Banff Tours is one of many operators offering guided walks of Johnston Canyon
How to book: It’s best to book early and online on any of the operators’ websites, particularly for busy times of year like the Christmas holidays
How much does it cost: Johnston Canyon Ice Walk is $104/person. Canmore Raft Tours’ guided walk is $155/person and the tour with Canmore Adventures is $99/person
Best for: Families or groups that want a unique winter hiking experience
While both Grotto Canyon and Johnston Canyon are popular winter hikes that can be done without guides, families looking for a more interactive experience can choose to get a guided tour that provides them with local knowledge as they make their way down the paths.
Grotto Canyon, located just outside of Canmore, has ancient pictographs that can be hard to spot without a guide, while Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park features a stunning waterfall that freezes over in the winter. The guided ice walks are designed for guests of all ages and abilities and are a great opportunity to learn a little about the history and geology of the area while getting some exercise and taking in fresh mountain air.
6. Pottery Painting at Crock A Doodle
Where to go: 109-300 Old Canmore Road
How to book: Through Crock A Doodle’s website
How much does it cost: Between $12 for smaller items and $50 for bigger items
Best for: Families looking for Canmore indoor activities
Unaware there was an activity such as pottery painting? At Crock A Doodle Canmore, it goes as far as zen doodling, helping guests wind down, relax, and also let their imagination run free. Crock A Doodle is a great indoor activity that allows you and your family and friends to be creative and social.
Only 100 metres away from our hotel, this is the perfect Canmore indoor activity if you seek a family-friendly event in the morning or evening. Group getaways, like bachelorette parties or corporate retreats, can also book out the studio for a fun, creative and relaxing activity that’s a little different.
More Things to Do in Canmore Winter
7. Ice Climbing
Are you an avid climber who loves wall climbing, bouldering, and ice climbing? Then, this professional winter activity in Canmore is for you. We recommend that anyone new to ice climbing sign up for some professional training courses. At Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre, we always encourage guests to adhere to mountain safety, which includes being aware of avalanche hazards. Be up-to-date about snow and weather conditions, as well as temperature changes that can severely affect the ice-climbing routes.
8. Ice Fishing
Want to test your patience in the cold? If you’re passionate about fishing and winter activities in Canmore, you might find some comfort and peace of mind in an ice fishing shelter or tent.
Unlike fishing in the summer, you won’t be dealing with bugs or sunburns; instead, you’ll benefit from perks that include reduced stress and some quiet time with the family. We highly recommend fishing for trout this winter.
9. Hot Springs
Canmore has three great hot springs options. Spending a day lounging in water naturally heated from deep below the earth’s surface is a wonderful way to stay warm and relax, even on a cold winter day.
The Banff Upper Hot Springs are closest, but Radium Hot Springs is worth the drive. Miette Hot Springs are closed in winter, set to re-open in spring 2027.
10. Grab a Local Brew
Canmore’s brewery scene has exploded in recent years, and when you stay at the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre, you’re within walking distance of some of the best beers in town. There are local distilleries and even a cidery making finely crafted drinks that are truly unique to the Canadian Rockies, and they all have non-alcoholic options, as well.
First Winter in the Rockies? What to Know Before You Go
It gets cold in the winter in the Canadian Rockies. That’s a given and guests should be prepared for snow and ice when they visit. What a lot of first-time guests may not know, though, is that it isn’t always cold. Temperatures can change in a hurry, and that means you need to check the forecast before you come and be prepared for quick changes in the weather.
- Bring layers. If you’re heading out into the mountains, be sure to bring extra sweaters, long underwear and gloves, scarves and toques. You may not need them all day, but it’s better to have them with you in case the temperatures do drop.
- Transit is available. You don’t need a car to enjoy the Rockies, even in winter. Canmore and Banff share the ROAM Transit System, and there are shuttle buses that will take you to most of the ski resorts in the area.
- Get the right passes. If you are going into Kananaskis Country, you will need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass, while any visits to Banff National Park will require a Parks Pass, including ski trips to Sunshine, Norquay and Lake Louise.
- Be prepared for road conditions. If you are driving, be prepared for winter road conditions. You can check them at 511 Alberta.
Choose Our Canmore Hotel as Your Winter Destination!
After a day on the slopes or the trails, come back to Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre, your cozy base in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Warm up with a swim in our indoor pool, then walk over to some of Canmore’s best breweries for dinner and a local pint, no driving on snowy roads required.
Leave the car parked. We’re close to the ROAM Transit bus, so getting to Banff and the area’s ski shuttles is easy. Travelling with family? Crock A Doodle is just 100 metres away for a rainy- or snowy-day activity. Bringing the dog? Four-legged guests are welcome too.
Not sure how to fill your days? Our friendly local team is happy to share their favourite winter activities in Canmore and help you plan, from dog sledding to Nordic skiing. Book your stay with us online or call us at 403.678.3625 for more information.
FAQs: Top Winter Canmore Activities in Canmore
How Warm Should I Dress for Winter Activities in Canmore?
Very warm. Layering up is the key to staying warm during any kind of outdoor activity. Depending on the activity you choose, you could be outside for at least three to six hours. Further to layering, make sure it’s specific to your winter activity. Canmore’s temperatures can fluctuate on a daily basis, so be sure you check the forecast before going out.
As a general rule of thumb for high-intensity Canmore winter activities, wear a light base layer, insulated yet versatile mid-layer, and protective softshell outerwear. Of course, don’t forget your toque and gloves!
Is Coast Canmore Hotel Pet-Friendly? Can You Recommend Pet-Friendly Winter Activities in Canmore?
We certainly are! At Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre, we’re proud to welcome your four-legged friends as our guests. We’ve also prepared a pet-friendly winter vacation itinerary for you during your stay. Dog beds, food bowls, and locally sourced treats are also provided! Plus, Canmore has many dog-friendly restaurants, hiking trails, and off-leash dog parks, including Quarry Park, Elk Run, Palliser, and Hubman Dog Park.
Do I Need a Pass for Cross-Country Skiing?
Yes, you need to purchase a Kanaskis conservation pass to use the parking facilities in Canmore and to participate in cross-country skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre.
What can you do in Canmore in winter if you don’t ski?
While Canmore might be close to some of the best ski resorts in the world, there is lots to do in and around town if you’re not a skier or snowboarder. Similar to a rainy day in summer, you could go swimming at Elevation Place or the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre, or you could check out some of the great art galleries downtown.
Are there indoor activities in Canmore?
Check out a Canmore Eagles hockey game or go skating at the Canmore Recreation Centre. There are also great spas in the area and some truly amazing restaurants for you to discover.