Ice skating at Canmore pond — Canmore outdoor skating pond.

5 Exciting Things To Do in Canmore for the Perfect Winter Weekend

The picturesque town of Canmore, Alberta is the ideal place to spend a magical winter weekend. This quaint town is nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, bordered by Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country. Canmore offers many options to ensure your perfect getaway—and don’t forget the hand warmers! Here are our top 5 things to do in Canmore and the surrounding area to make the most of your winter weekend in the mountains.

1 - Don’t waste time on your arrival day.

You want to make the most of your time in the Canadian Rockies! The winter days are short in the mountains, and the travel time to get here often means yourfirst night is limited to grabbing some food and falling into bed. Instead, capitalize on your time in the evening with a Grotto Canyon Ice Walk that will set the tone for your whole trip. Gaze up at ethereal frozen waterfalls as you wander through the limestone chasm of the canyon. This otherworldly experience is one of our top things to do in Canmore, and you’ll never forget the wondrous sights.

2. See an amazing sunrise

Here comes the sun! The sun rises later in the winter, so getting up to see those first rays peak over the mountains isn’t as hard as it would be in the summer months. Winter sunrises are magical in Canmore as the sun gradually lights up the epic summits that surround the town.

Once you’re up and at ’em, grab breakfast from Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. They have a great selection of housemade bagels, sweet treats and coffee you can take on the go.

3. Discover the untouched backcountry

It’s time for adventure! The winter things to do in Kananaskis are unlimited—it truly is Canmore’s playground.

There are multiple snowshoe trails in the area, with local favourites like Hogarth Lakes or Chester Lake. If you forgot your snowshoes, book a private snowshoe tour where all the equipment is provided and your personal guide knows all the best spots to look for animal tracks in the deep powder.

4. Rest and Relax in Style

After all the wonderful outdoor things to do in Canmore, it’s time to kick back and relax. Don’t miss the Kananaskis Nordic Spa with its hot pools, barrel saunas and divine massages.

Slip into the authentic Scandinavian experience to soothe any aches and pains in the most delightful and tranquil environment. You won’t want to leave this alpine sanctuary!

5. Visit Iconic Banff National Park

Get your camera ready! Winter is the best time to visit Banff National Park, and it’s a must-see while you are in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Just 20 minutes from Canmore, the Banff townsite offers the quintessential mountain backdrop while you explore local shops, cafes, galleries and museums.

Then, be whisked away by the gondola at Sulphur Mountain. After a morning exploring the town , experience the breathtaking summit of the mountain. The glittering views of endless snow-capped peaks that extend in every direction make snowy days the most picturesque and best time to visit Banff.

Uncover the Secrets of the Bow Valley

When the snow flies, don’t let it stop you from finding exciting things to do in Canmore and beyond. Your dream weekend away is the perfect time to expand and discover new things to do in Kananaskis Country, and make memories you’ll cherish forever. Book your private tour today to see what you’ve been missing.