Canmore is Banff's charming, laid-back neighbour — a vibrant mountain town just 20 minutes east of Banff that offers its own unique character, excellent restaurants, world-class hiking, and a local atmosphere that's noticeably different from the tourist energy of Banff. A day trip to Canmore gives you a broader perspective on life in the Canadian Rockies and introduces you to one of the most livable mountain towns in the world.
Getting There
Canmore is just 22 km (20 minutes) east of Banff on the Trans-Canada Highway. You can drive, take Roam Transit Route 3 (regular service between Banff and Canmore, affordable and convenient), or cycle the Legacy Trail — a 26 km paved path connecting the two towns through spectacular mountain scenery.
Top Things to Do in Canmore
Walk Main Street (8th Street)
Canmore's charming downtown strip is lined with independent shops, art galleries, bookstores, cafes, and restaurants. It has a more local, less touristy feel than Banff Avenue. Browse the boutiques, grab an ice cream, and soak up the mountain-town atmosphere. The Three Sisters peaks loom dramatically at the end of the street.
Hike Grassi Lakes
Distance: 4 km return | Elevation Gain: 300m | Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
The most popular hike in Canmore leads to two stunning turquoise alpine lakes with a waterfall and ancient Indigenous rock art. The vivid colour of the lakes comes from dissolved minerals, not glacial flour, giving them a different character from Banff's lakes. Two routes are available: an easier graded path and a steeper, more direct route with better views.
Hike Ha Ling Peak
Distance: 7.6 km return | Elevation Gain: 739m | Difficulty: Strenuous
For a challenging but rewarding summit hike, Ha Ling Peak delivers extraordinary 360-degree views from its 2,407m summit. The trail is steep but well-maintained. On clear days, you can see from Banff to the prairies. Start early and bring layers for the exposed summit.
Quarry Lake
A local favourite for swimming in summer. This former quarry filled with clear mountain water is one of the warmest swimming spots in the Rockies (relatively speaking — it's still cold, but swimmable in July and August). A sandy beach, grassy areas, and mountain views make it a perfect afternoon hangout.
Canmore Nordic Centre
Built for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics, the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park now serves as a year-round outdoor recreation hub. In winter: cross-country skiing, biathlon, and fat biking. In summer: mountain biking on an extensive trail network, disc golf, and trail running. Equipment rentals available on-site.
Bike the Legacy Trail
The 26 km paved Legacy Trail between Banff and Canmore is one of the best cycling paths in the Canadian Rockies. The trail follows the Bow Valley with mountain views the entire way. Rent a bike in either town, ride one way, and take Roam Transit back. E-bike rentals make it accessible to all fitness levels.
Where to Eat in Canmore
The Iron Goat Pub & Grill
A local favourite with excellent pub food, craft beer, and a laid-back atmosphere. Their burgers, nachos, and fish & chips are consistently good, and the patio has mountain views.
Communitea Cafe
A beloved local café serving healthy, organic food with an extensive tea menu. Buddha bowls, wraps, soups, and fresh-baked goods in a cozy, community-focused space. Excellent for vegetarians and vegans.
Crazyweed Kitchen
Creative, internationally inspired cuisine using local ingredients. One of the best restaurants in the Bow Valley. The menu changes seasonally, but everything from their curries to their pasta to their grilled meats is exceptional. Reservations recommended.
Rocky Mountain Bagel Co.
Freshly baked Montreal-style bagels that are the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or lunch. The smoked salmon bagel is a standout. Quick, affordable, and delicious.
Canmore vs Banff
- Atmosphere: Canmore feels more like a real town — locals outnumber tourists, the pace is slower, and the community vibe is strong
- Prices: Accommodation, dining, and groceries are generally 20–40% cheaper than Banff
- Location: Just outside the national park boundary, so you don't need a Parks Canada pass for Canmore activities (but you do for the park)
- Shopping: More unique, locally owned shops vs Banff's tourist-oriented retail
Consider staying in Canmore for lower hotel rates — browse accommodation on Expedia.