Canmore, Kananaskis Country
Canmore is a vibrant town nestled in the Rocky Mountains. Being so close to Calgary and Banff National Park, Canmore is a great place to stay and enjoy while you’re traveling around the rocky mountains.
Indigenous Heritage
Over the years I’ve found solace, connecting with my heritage here, in nature—celebrating the richness of our lands. The Kananaskis is one of these spaces, nestled in the South Banff Range. Treaty 7 lands of the Stoney Nakoda peoples. Historically, neighbouring tribes designated the Stoney Nakoda as “Assiniboine,” a name that literally means “Stone people” or “Warriors of the Rocks.”
My time spent in this range, in this space — it’s invaluable. I’ve found myself, found love, been awestruck, been connected to and embraced these lands. I often take time to recognize, reflect, and celebrate the indigenous heritage in these natural spaces, since the contributions of First Nation peoples are overlooked with the commercialization of these mountain ranges.
Where to Hike Near Canmore
East End Of Rundle
Intermediate Hike — Scramble — Cliff Exposure
Beautiful views on the way up, at the summit, and all the way down. Careful while you’re hiking, make sure to look up from the trail; it is sometimes obscure. Major Cliffexposure on the second half of the hike, so it’s extremely important that you don’t wander off to the east side of the mountain. Despite this, your effort will be rewarded with incredible 360 views of the Canmore village and Ha Ling Peak. (Pictured below)
Where to Hike Near Canmore
The Fortress
Intermediate Hike — Scramble — Cliff Exposure
There’s nothing like conquering The Fortress with a bunch of friends! You’ll feel accomplished after of day scrambling up this one. The Fortress is a peak in Kananaskis Park, Canada, located southeast of Gusty Peak in the Kananaskis River Valley. The Fortress is a peak in the Canadian Rockies’ Kananaskis River Valley. The north face has a fortress-like aspect when viewed from Highway 40.
What To Do In The Winter
X-Country Skiing: Canmore Nordic Centre
With five ski resorts within 50 miles, there is so much to choose from! (Fortress Mountain, Mount Norquay, and the Olympic hill of Nakiska) I enjoy going out cross-country skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre, which was built for the 1988 Winter Olympics. My last trip there was with @Arcterx.Alberta. The Motus Fleece mid-layer kept us warm and ready for anything.
Where To Camp Near Canmore
Spray Lakes West Campground
Spray Lakes West Campground is located in Spray Valley Provincial Park on the Spray Lakes Trail, 16 kilometres south of Canmore. You may never want to leave this lovely camping on the Spray Lakes Reservoir’s shoreline! There are RV and tent campsites available, several of which are near to the lake. Hiking trails, boating, fishing, and animal viewing are all available in this lovely Rocky Mountain setting.
Where To Stay Near Canmore
Canmore AirBnB
My Top Pick: Modern Mountain Townhouse: private garage/entrance.
Superhosts Kristin & Andre were incredible to coordinate with when I stayed at their beautiful townhouse. Always fast to respond and really helpful. Everything is close to the AirBnB, and you can simply stroll to the town centre, restaurants, and other attractions or crash there after a day of outdoor activities. The vista of the Three Sisters is breathtaking; it’s a dream to wake up with this view.
Where To Eat In Canmore
There are more great local shops in the Canmore that you’ll want to visit while you’re in town.