Canmore, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning mountain scenery and abundance of hiking trails, it offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, Canmore has something for everyone.
Let’s take a closer look at some of Canmore’s best hiking trails.
Easy Canmore Hiking Trails for Beginners
Grassi Lakes Trail
If you’re looking for a family-friendly hike with stunning scenery, look no further than the Grassi Lakes Trail. This easy 4-kilometer loop takes you to two crystal-clear lakes and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The trailhead for Grassi Lakes Trail is located just outside of Canmore and is easily accessible by car. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities. Along the way, you will pass by beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and colorful wildflowers.
The highlight of the Grassi Lakes Trail is the two lakes at the top. The lower lake is known for its vibrant turquoise color, while the upper lake offers a more peaceful and secluded setting. Both lakes are perfect for a picnic or a quick dip on a hot summer day.
Bow River Loop
Canmore offers a wide range of family-friendly hiking trails that are perfect for a day out with the kids. One of the best options is the Bow River Loop, which offers stunning views of the Bow River and the surrounding mountains. This easy 5-kilometer flat loop is suitable for all ages and abilities and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Quarry Lake Trail
Another great option for families is the Quarry Lake Trail. This easy 2-kilometer trail takes you around a beautiful lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for strollers and young children.
Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park
One of the best places to hike in Canmore is the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park. It has a wide variety of trails including some beginner and easy hikes suitable for all skill levels.
The Georgetown Trail is a forested trail to the banks of the Bow River and the site of the old mining town of Georgetown. It has beautiful views of the Town of Canmore and surrounding peaks. It is a 3.5-kilometer one-way trail and can be hiked in both summer and winter.
Moderate Canmore Hiking Trails for Intermediate Hikers
Ha Ling Peak and Miner’s Peak
For those looking for a more challenging hike, the summit of Ha Ling Peak and neighbouring Miner’s Peak is a must-visit. These iconic peaks offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making them favorites among locals and visitors alike.
The trail to the summit of Ha Ling Peak is approximately 7 kilometers round trip and Miner’s Peak is approximately 8.4 kilometers and are both rated as difficult. The trail starts off with a steep climb through a forested area, before opening up to a rocky and exposed ridge. The final push to the summit involves some scrambling and can be quite challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
EEOR (East End of Rundle) Trail
The EEOR Trail is a 9-kilometer loop hike that takes you to the summit of the East End of Rundle. This trail is known for its challenging terrain, with steep sections and loose rocks. However, the views from the top are simply spectacular. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Banff National Park.
Challenging Canmore Hiking Trails for Advanced Hikers
The Majestic Three Sisters Mountains
The Three Sisters Mountains, are a must-see Canmore attraction in. These majestic peaks are named after three sisters from a local legend and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The mountains are a popular spot for hiking, with trails ranging from easy to challenging.
One of the most popular hikes is the Middle Sister trail, which takes you to the summit of the Middle Sister. This hike is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is well-marked and can be completed in a few hours, making it a great option for a day trip.
Three Sister Creek Trail
This out-and-back trail covering approximately 4.5 kilometers is considered a moderate hike with steady elevation and scenic views of two waterfalls and mountain peaks. Popular amongst trail runners, hikers, mountain biking, and snowshoers, this trail is well populated during all seasons.
Grotto Mountain Trail
This 13.2 kilometer trail is considered highly challenging and should only be attempted by experienced hikers and not to be ventured alone. The steep terrain required hikers to come equipped with their own spikes, poles, and appropriate apparel. False summits offer rewarding views of the Bow Valley and Three Sisters Mountain.
Mount Lady MacDonald
For those looking for a challenging hike with stunning views, the trail to the summit of Mount Lady MacDonald is a must-try. This 10-kilometer round trip hike offers panoramic views of the Bow Valley and the surrounding mountains, making it a favorite among experienced hikers.
The trail to the summit of Mount Lady MacDonald is rated as difficult and involves some steep sections and scrambling. It is important to be prepared and hike safely when attempting this trail. Construction is being done as of September 2023, so please check this link for closures.
Mount Yamnuska Trail
The Mount Yamnuska Trail is a 11-kilometer loop hike that takes you to the summit of Mount Yamnuska. This trail is not for the faint of heart, as it involves steep ascents, narrow ledges, and exposed cliffs. However, if you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Bow Valley and the surrounding mountains.
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About Canmore Adventures:
Canmore Adventures is Canmore, Alberta’s hub for adventures and activities in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Providing exceptional tours and experiences, showcasing Canmore as a world-class destination for visitors is its goal. Let Canmore Adventures craft your next lifelong Memory.
