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City known for:
  • Crowd-free adventure
  • Small-town charm
  • Stunning scenery

A mountain town and the wild region surrounding it.

The Kananaskis region wraps around the town of Canmore, and together they satisfy any adventurous appetite. The area abounds with forests, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, glaciers and seemingly endless paths and trails.

Many pass through on their way to Banff National Park, but once you see the uncrowded streets and craggy peaks of Canmore and Kananaskis, your Wild Side will beg you to stay awhile.

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Canmore & Kananaskis highlights

Natural beauty under the radar

Part of the Canadian Rockies, Canmore and Kananaskis offer forests, mountains, lakes and rivers as beautiful as Banff’s but with fewer crowds.

Outdoor thrills in all directions

Access a playground of outdoor activities. From biking and camping to skiing and snowboarding, adventures await every season and skill level.

A man holding a framed picture.

Mountain community culture

Tour art galleries, shop locally made goods and attend traditional workshops before enjoying a night on the town with the locals.

Family and friends roasting marshmallows over a campfire at Mount Engadine Lodge in Kananaskis Country
Hiker enjoying larch tress at Little Arethusa Trail
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A couple walks through Canmore's vehicle free downtown zone
Family of four cross country skiing with mountains in the background.
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A family floats down the Bow River with Canmore Raft Tours as the sun flares over top of the mountains in Canmore.
Exploring the caves with Canmore Cave Tours at Rat's Nest Cave. This experience has been recognized as a Canadian Signature Experience

What to do and where to stay in Canmore & Kananaskis

Stories from the city

A family hikes past wildflowers in the mountains near Hinton, Alberta.
5 min read The Best Things to do this Spring in Alberta

Alberta is the ultimate spring destination. Enjoy bluebird days on the slopes, exciting festivals, cozy glamping, luxurious spas and plenty more—without summer crowds.

Two skiers at the top of a run at WinSport with the Olympic ski jump tower in the distance.
7 min read Where to Try Winter Olympic Sports in Alberta

Experience iconic Winter Olympics sports in Alberta, from speed skating and skiing to biathlon and hockey, at legendary venues shaped by the province’s 1988 Olympics legacy.

Two people enjoying the indoor/outdoor pools at BASIN with the Rocky Mountains in the background.
6 min read Try these Unique Spa and Hot Tub Experiences in Alberta

Discover Alberta’s most distinctive spa experiences—from Nordic circuits and rooftop hot tubs to Indigenous wellness retreats—perfect for travellers seeking relaxation and unforgettable moments in stunning Canadian landscapes.

A woman stands against the glass walls of her cabin, looking out at the Canadian Rockies at Skyridge Glamping in Alberta.
6 min read 9 of the Most Unusual Places to Stay in Canada are in Alberta

Want to stay somewhere unique in Canada? Travellers can rest their heads in a grain silo, medieval tent, clear-walled geodome and more at these welcoming and original retreats in Alberta.

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Two hikers pause on a cliffside overlooking a mountain lake.

Did you know?

Kananaskis has hosted some of the world’s top leaders. In 2002 and 2025, it was the backdrop for the G7 Summit.

Suggested Itineraries

Four friends and a guide in snowshoes looking up at the night sky featuring the forest, mountains and stars.
7 days
Canmore and Kananaskis: Winter Itinerary

Embark on an invigorating winter adventure in the Canadian Rockies. Spend the week exploring the natural wonders—and culinary hotspots—of Kananaskis Country.

Three people explore the waters of Quarry Lake on stand-up paddleboards.
3 days
Explore Our Landscapes: A Summer Weekend in Canmore and Kananaskis

Enjoy a 3-day weekend in Canmore and Kananaskis, exploring the beautiful landscapes of mountains, forests and water.

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Nearby cities to explore

The main street of Banff in winter with lights on all the storefronts and a mountain in the background.
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Beautiful colours light the sky over Peace Bridge in Calgary.
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A group pause on a bridge pass over Pyramid Lake in winter.
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A guide and group of winter hikers walk on a frozen lake.
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