10 Best Canmore Hikes and Trails
Take a Walk Around Canmore’s Most Beautiful Landscapes
The best hikes and trails in Canmore are renowned for their pristine wilderness, welcoming hikers from around the world. The vast network of trails feature adrenaline-packed ascents of towering summits and leisurely strolls along serene creeks, while the town offers a diverse range of hiking experiences suitable for adventurers of all levels.
Whether you seek panoramic vistas or simply a tranquil break from city life, Canmore’s trails beckon you with unparalleled beauty. Embark on a hiking adventure in Canmore and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies.
1. Grassi Lakes Trail
Scenic trek to a pair of aquamarine lakes
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico
The Grassi Lakes trailhead is located at the east edge of the town of Canmore. The well-maintained path winds through alpine meadows and passes 2 beautiful turquoise lakes, which are fed by underground springs and renowned for their vivid, blue-green hues.
Be sure to check the map before you head out, as there are 2 separate routes forking from the main trail and leading to different viewpoints of the lakes. Grassi Lake Upper is the easier trail and follows an old road through dense forest, whereas Grassi Lake Interpretive climbs steeply to an excellent view of a waterfall at the end.
Grassi Lakes Trail
2. Ha Ling Peak
Iconic view of the Rockies
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico, Aventura
Ha Ling Peak overlooks the Spray Valley Provincial Park in southwest Canmore. A rugged icon of the Canadian Rockies, it boasts unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Three Sisters and Mount Rundle. On a clear day, you can even look up to the horizon and enjoy sweeping vistas going all the way to Banff National Park.
Do come prepared, as the hike up the summit is strenuous. With steep inclines and a few scrambles over boulders and loose gravel, the trek is a challenge that provides rewards in both the scenery and the adventure of the climb.
Ha Ling Peak
3. Three Sisters Creek Trail
A fun waterfall hike with stream-crossings
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico, Famílias
Three Sisters Creek Trail is a short hike that leads to 2 waterfalls. The out-and-back route takes you through a lovely stretch of woods, following a creek and a historic mining area along the way. When the sky is clear, you can also catch glimpses of its namesake mountain peak, Three Sisters, in the distance.
The hike is easy with minimal elevation gain, making it a great option for a family outing. There are also a few stream crossings along the way, so bring the kids and let them soak up some extra fun.
Three Sisters Creek Trail
4. Policeman Creek Boardwalk Trail
Ideal for wildlife watching
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico, Famílias
Policeman Creek Boardwalk is a nature trail easily accessible from downtown Canmore. The 3.9-km path runs along Policeman’s Creek and passes through forests and ponds, offering plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. You’ll likely encounter a variety of ducks, songbirds or potentially even elk or deer.
Thanks to its well-maintained smooth surface and gentle incline, this trail is an easy walk that’s ideal for all experience levels. If you’re up for some more challenge, the route also connects with the vast network of trails around town, providing convenient switch points for a longer hike.
Policeman Creek Boardwalk Trail
5. Lady MacDonald
A challenging climb that comes with unparalleled rewards
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura
Lady MacDonald trail is a short and steep climb from the Cougar Creek trailhead to the ridge of Mount Lady MacDonald. It starts within a pristine forest before quickly ascending above the treeline, leading to a stretch of scrambling that is challenging but packed with adrenaline for those seeking an adventure.
Once you reach the summit, take your time to claim the reward and enjoy the breathtaking view. It is simply extraordinary to stand on the ridge with sheer drops on both sides and watch the rest of the mountain range unfold before you.
Lady MacDonald
6. Rundle Forebay Reservoir
Still, blue water with majestic mountain views
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico
Rundle Forebay Reservoir is not only the main source of drinking water for the town of Canmore, but also a beautiful place to visit. With the magnificent Ha Ling Peak reflecting in its mirror-like surface, the view is as tranquil and surreal as a postcard.
The trail around the reservoir is a 4-km out-and-back path that takes you to the end of the pond. From there, it connects with multiple other hiking trails in the area, and you can easily turn it into a multi-destination trek.
Localização: 10509 Smith Dorrien Spray Trail, Canmore, AB T0L 2C0, Canada
Rundle Forebay Reservoir
7. East End of Rundle
A steep scramble to one of the most iconic viewpoints
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura
East End of Rundle is one of the many trails leading up Mount Rundle, an icon of Banff National Park. The hike is steep and challenging, covering an elevation gain of 800 metres over a one-way distance of 2.9 km, but it offers one of the best rewards for the effort. From the summit, you’ll be swept away by stunning views of Spray Valley where Ha Ling Peak towers over Whitemans Reservoir nestled at the bottom.
Remember to bring a trail map, as there are many forks on the path for climbers and various viewpoints. A little preparation could save you precious time on the ascend.
East End of Rundle
8. Larch Islands Interpretative Trail
Flood plains along tranquil rivers
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico, Famílias
Larch Island Interpretive Trail is an easy loop located right at the edge of downtown Canmore. Winding through a peaceful woodland and flood plain, it takes you past a disused railway line alongside the Bow River and its many channels, including Policeman Creek.
The trail is flat and nicely maintained, perfect for bringing little children or even strollers for an easy walk, and the accessibility doesn’t come at the price of the view. There are several lookout points to enjoy the scenery along the river, as well as the mountains surrounding the area.
Larch Islands Interpretative Trail
9. Quarry Lake
Perfect for swimming in the summer and skating in the winter
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico, Famílias
Quarry Lake is a popular park on the southwest side of Canmore that provides a serene place of relaxation. The lake loop follows a beautiful open valley, with hills on one side and clear views of towering mountains in the distance.
The lake is a great place for swimming in the summer, and the picnic facilities are a local favourite among families. In the winter, the water turns into an ice-skating arena, offering a different type of fun for the chillier season.
Quarry Lake
10. Bow River Loop
An accessible and leisurely walk along the famed Bow River
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico
Bow River Loop begins right at the edge of downtown Canmore. It hugs the banks of the scenic Bow River and provides panoramic views of surrounding mountains, including Lady MacDonald, Mount Rundle and the Cascade Mountains.
The easy walk is suitable for people of all fitness levels, and it is also one of the few wheelchair accessible routes in town. If you’re in the mood for some unique pictures, frame the old railway bridge, as it looks strikingly beautiful against the blue and green background.
Bow River Loop
Este artigo inclui opiniões da equipe editorial dos Go Guides. A Hoteis.com remunera os autores dos textos publicados neste site, o que pode incluir custos de viagens e outras despesas.