Activities
There is no shortage of ways to explore and enjoy the Alberta Rockies. From scenic tours and relaxing spa visits to bike rentals, museums, and outdoor adventures, here are some of our favourite activities to help you make the most of your time in Canmore and Banff.
Equipment Rentals
Equipment to enjoy your adventures in the mountains to the fullest can all be found at GearUp Mountain Sports located a few blocks from our condo. They have a great selection of bike rentals, ski/snowboard equipment, snowshoes, crampons/cleats, and even bear spray rentals. They have a friendly and helpful staff, with very reasonable rental rates. Book your rentals on their website or in-person below:
1302 Bow Valley Trail
Canmore, AB T1W 1N6
The Legacy Trail, stretching between Canmore and Banff, offers a scenic 26-kilometer cycling experience through the heart of the Rockies. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views, wildlife sightings, and well-maintained pathways perfect for riders of all levels. This fun adventure combines natural beauty and fresh alpine air, making it an unforgettable journey.
Located in Kananaskis Village, the Kananaskis Nordic Spa is equipped with 3 outdoor pools: a hot, warm, and cool pool (along with steam huts and outdoor heated hammocks). Here you are encouraged to complete the hydrotherapy cycle from hot to cool as many times as you like during your time there. There are options for food and drinks as well if you are wanting to take a bit of a break from the water!
Skating at Lake Louise
Skating on Lake Louise in winter is a magical experience! Glide across the frozen turquoise waters surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and the iconic Fairmont Chateau. With a well maintained and groomed rink (typically open from mid-December to mid-March), this is a postcard-perfect Rocky Mountain winter moment and experience!
Cascade Gardens
Located just steps from downtown Banff, the beautiful Cascade Gardens offer a peaceful place to stroll among colourful flower beds, stone pathways, and charming bridges. With stunning views of Cascade Mountain in the background, it is a lovely spot for a relaxing walk or a quiet moment away from the busier streets of town. The gardens are especially vibrant during the summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
Relax and unwind in the soothing mineral waters of the Banff Upper Hot Springs while surrounded by incredible mountain views. Located high on Sulphur Mountain, this historic hot spring is a wonderful way to warm up after a day of exploring the mountains.
If you are looking for a relaxed evening activity, the Lux Cinema in Banff offers a cozy movie experience right in the heart of town. It is a great option for a quieter night after a full day of adventures in the mountains!
Guided Tours
Joining a guided tour is a wonderful way to experience the Canadian Rockies while learning more about the landscape, wildlife, and history of the area. Local guides know the best places to visit and can handle the logistics, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy the experience.
We are happy to recommend our friends at Into the Wild Tours, a fantastic local company offering unforgettable experiences such as Moraine Lake and Lake Louise tours, stargazing tours, and private guided adventures throughout the region. We love supporting local businesses whenever we can, and they have kindly offered our guests 15% off guided or private tours—simply follow the link above, or use the code CANMOREMOUNTAINVACATIONS15 at checkout to receive the discount.
The Canmore Mountain Market is a wonderful way to spend a morning or afternoon. Running every Thursday from late May through early October (10AM–6PM) at Elevation Place, 700 Railway Ave, the market features local artisans, fresh produce, handmade goods, food vendors, and live entertainment. While you'll find many talented vendors from Canmore and the Bow Valley, the market also attracts makers, growers, and small businesses from across Alberta and Western Canada, making it a fantastic place to discover unique local products and experience the vibrant community spirit that makes Canmore so special!
While it's a bit of a drive from Canmore toward Cochrane, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is well worth the trip—and we highly recommend taking the scenic Highway 1A for some beautiful Rocky Mountain views! The sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to learn about and observe rescued wolfdogs in a natural setting while supporting an organization dedicated to their care and conservation.
If you're making the drive, consider stopping in Cochrane afterward and treating yourself to an ice cream from Mackay's Ice Cream, a Southern Alberta favourite that has been serving delicious ice cream for generations. On a warm summer day, it's the perfect way to round out the excursion!
Canmore and Banff host a variety of amazing events throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to experience the local culture, community, and mountain lifestyle. If your visit coincides with one of these events, we highly recommend checking them out!