Before you go

Your trip to Canmore.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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Canmore – Alberta Destination Banff and Lake Louise

How to get there

  • Calgary International Airport (YYC) Calgary · 105 km

Approximate distances. Check flights and bus, train or boat schedules before you travel.

From Calgary, about 105 km via the Trans-Canada Highway. Roam buses connect Canmore and Banff, and airport transfers run from Calgary.

How many days

One day for Grassi Lakes, the town centre and the Nordic Centre; many people use the town as a base for Banff.

When to go

Late June to September for the trails; December to March for cross-country skiing at the Nordic Centre.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Guides for trails outside the centre, such as Grassi Lakes. Roam buses link the town with Banff.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Canmore
  1. Morning
    Grassi Lakes

    Do the Grassi Lakes trail, with climbing walls and ancient rock paintings.

  2. Afternoon
    Town centre and Bow River

    Stroll along Main Street and the Bow River waterfront, with views of the Three Sisters.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

Is Canmore inside Banff National Park?

No. It sits just outside the park boundary, about 25 km from the town of Banff.

Is it worth staying in Canmore?

Yes, if you’re driving to Banff: there are more accommodation options and the drive to Banff takes about 20 minutes.

Do I need a park pass in Canmore?

No for the town, which is outside the national park. A pass is required when entering Banff.

What are the Three Sisters of Canmore?

Three neighboring peaks that rise above the town and appear in many photos of the Bow Valley.

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