CANMORE

Canmore (pop. 12,000) lies in the wide Bow Valley, 103 km (64 miles) west of Calgary, 28 km (17 miles) southeast of Banff, and on the northern edge of Kananaskis Country. Long perceived as a gateway to the mountain national parks, the town is very much a destination in itself these days. Its ideal mountain location and the freedom it enjoys from the strict development restrictions that apply in the nearby parks have made Canmore the fastest-growing town in Canada, with the population having tripled in the last 20 years.

The surrounding mountains provide Canmore’s best recreation opportunities. Hiking is excellent on trails that lace the valley and mountainside slopes, with many high viewpoints easily reached. Flowing though town, the Bow River offers great fishing, kayaking, and rafting; golfers flock to three scenic courses; and nearby Mount Yamnuska has become the most developed rock-climbing site in the Canadian Rockies. Canmore also hosted the Nordic events of the 1988 Winter Olympic Games and is the home of the Alpine Club of Canada.

Coal-Mining History: Explore Canmore’s coal-mining history by walking through the residential area west of downtown. Continue up Canmore Creek, past sealed mine entrances, for the full effect. (read more)

Grassi Lakes: A short walk is required to reach these two lakes, which are natural highlights of the Canmore region. (read more)

Chinaman’s Peak: Feeling fit? Follow the trail to this summit for valley views that are unsurpassed. (read more)

Oh Canada Eh!: Slightly tacky, but good fun nevertheless, this dinner theater production brings Canada’s best-known symbols to life. (read more)