Canmore is a beautiful place to visit in winter, with snow-covered mountains, easy access to outdoor adventures and plenty of ways to enjoy the Canadian Rockies. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or using Canmore as a base to explore Banff and Kananaskis, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Canmore in winter, even if you don’t ski!
As Canmore locals, we’ve spent years exploring the area in every season, and winter is no exception. Some of our favourite Canmore winter activities are as simple as walking along the Bow River or heading out for a scenic drive. Others, like snowshoeing, ice skating and cross-country skiing, are great ways to experience a Canadian Rockies winter.
We’ve put together our favourite winter activities in Canmore and the surrounding area, including easy outdoor adventures, more adventurous experiences and indoor options for those especially cold days. We’ll also share our local tips on where to go, what to expect and how to make the most of your time in Canmore during winter.

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Best Things to do in Canmore in Winter
The snow-covered mountain peaks make Canmore a beautiful place to visit in winter. With so many outdoor activities to choose from, you won’t run out of things to do in Canmore in winter.
If the weather is exceptionally cold during your visit, plan to dress in extra layers and do activities closer to town so you can warm up as needed. We’ve included a list of fun indoor activities in Canmore as well, which are ideal on those especially cold days or just to warm up from that winter chill.
Here’s a list of the best Canmore attractions in winter. Many of these Canmore winter activities are right in town, while others require a short drive. We’ve focused on Canmore and the surrounding area, since we have a separate guide to the best things to do in Banff in winter.

Planning a Winter Trip to Banff?
The Banff & Jasper Planning Hub includes our Banff Winter Travel Guide, with practical winter advice, activity ideas, seasonal tips, and local guidance to help you plan your trip without feeling overwhelmed.
Easy Winter Activities in Canmore
Canmore Winter Walks
One of our favourite things to do in Canmore in winter is to get outside for a walk. Many of the popular Canmore walking trails are just as enjoyable in winter, with snow-covered trees, beautiful mountain views and plenty of options that don’t require a long or difficult hike.
Two of our favourite winter walks in Canmore are the Bow River Loop and Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk. The Bow River Loop is especially scenic around the historic Engine Bridge, while Policeman’s Creek offers an easy walk along the water with mountain views. Both are close to downtown Canmore, making it easy to stop for a coffee or hot chocolate afterwards.

Another great option is a short walk around Quarry Lake in Canmore, where you can enjoy views of Ha Ling Peak and the surrounding mountains. It’s a lovely spot for a quick winter outing, but be sure to stay off the lake itself. Quarry Lake is fed by an underground spring, making the ice unsafe for walking or skating.
Local Tip
Winter walking trails can become packed down and icy, especially after periods of warmer weather. We recommend bringing winter traction devices, such as microspikes, so you can enjoy your walk without worrying about slippery sections.
Scenic Drives from Canmore
Taking a scenic drive is a great thing to do around Canmore in winter, especially on those really cold days when you don’t want to spend too much time outside. With snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes and beautiful scenery in every direction, there are several worthwhile drives within easy reach of Canmore.

In nearby Banff National Park, we recommend the Bow Valley Parkway, which offers beautiful mountain views and plenty of opportunities to stop for photos along the way. Another favourite is the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive, where you can visit Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake. Both are especially beautiful in winter, but keep in mind that only part of the Minnewanka Loop Road remains open during the winter months.
For a different perspective of the Canadian Rockies, head into Kananaskis Country. Highway 40 offers impressive mountain scenery, although the section over Highwood Pass is closed during winter. The Smith-Dorrien Trail, which you can access just outside Canmore, is another scenic route worth considering. This gravel road can be rough and snow-covered in winter, so it’s best suited to drivers who are comfortable with challenging winter road conditions.
Local Tip
Before heading out on a winter scenic drive, check 511 Alberta for road conditions and closures. Even when the weather is clear in Canmore, road conditions can be quite different as you travel farther into the mountains.

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Ice Skating in Canmore
There’s something special about skating outdoors in Canmore with the snow-covered mountains surrounding you. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outdoor rink or somewhere to skate indoors on a particularly cold day, there are several options around town.
One of the most popular places for outdoor skating in Canmore is the Canmore Pond, located just a short walk from Main Street. It’s a beautiful spot to skate, especially with the surrounding mountains, but the natural ice needs to be thick enough for the Town of Canmore to maintain it. There are also several smaller outdoor skating rinks around town. We recommend checking the Town of Canmore’s outdoor skating conditions before heading out, as availability depends on the weather.

For those especially cold days, the Canmore Recreation Centre offers indoor public skating. Check the public skating schedule before visiting, as drop-in sessions are offered at specific times.
If you’re lucky enough to visit when conditions are right, wild ice skating on a frozen mountain lake can be an incredible experience. However, these conditions are unpredictable and lake ice is not maintained or monitored like a municipal skating rink. Never assume a frozen lake is safe, and be aware that Quarry Lake and the Rundle Forebay are not safe for skating.
For more information on where to skate, see our guides to ice skating in Canmore and Kananaskis and the best places to go ice skating in Banff.

Tobogganing and Sledding Hills in Canmore
If you’re visiting Canmore in winter with kids, tobogganing is a great way to get outside and enjoy the snow without spending a lot of money. There are several popular sledding hills around Canmore, ranging from gentle slopes for younger children to steeper hills for those looking for a little more excitement.

Here are three places to go tobogganing in Canmore:
- Canmore Nordic Centre: A great option for families with younger children, the Nordic Centre has a designated toboggan hill with a gentle slope. You’ll need to bring your own sled, as rentals aren’t available at the Nordic Centre.
- Eagle Terrace Park: Another popular Canmore sledding hill, Eagle Terrace has slopes of varying lengths, making it a good option for families with children of different ages. There’s also a playground nearby.
- Cemetery Hill: Located near the cemetery off Benchlands Trail, this is a steeper hill that local families use for sledding. It’s better suited to older children who are comfortable with faster downhill runs.
We recommend bringing helmets for the kids and checking the hills before sledding, especially after warmer weather when the snow can become hard and icy. Be sure the hill is clear of obstacles and other people before heading down.
Ice Walks Around Canmore
Walking through a narrow canyon surrounded by towering rock walls and frozen waterfalls is a memorable way to experience winter in the Canadian Rockies. There are several excellent ice walks near Canmore, each offering something a little different. Some follow frozen creek beds, while others have maintained trails and walkways overlooking the icy canyon below.
We’ve done these winter hikes with our kids, and they’re among our favourite ways to get outside during the colder months. You’ll want good winter boots and microspikes for traction, as the trails can be extremely slippery.
Grotto Canyon Ice Walk
The Grotto Canyon Ice Walk is one of our favourite winter hikes near Canmore. After a short walk through the forest, you’ll enter a narrow canyon where the creek bed often turns into a sheet of ice. Following the frozen creek between the canyon walls is a lot of fun, especially for kids, and you’re rewarded with a beautiful frozen waterfall near the end.
The amount of ice varies throughout winter, so you might find a mix of snow, ice and exposed rocks depending on when you visit. We strongly recommend microspikes and waterproof winter boots. If you’d rather go with a guide, the Grotto Canyon Ice Walk tour with Discover Banff Tours includes transportation from Canmore or Banff and traction devices.

Jura Creek Ice Walk
Another excellent option is the Jura Creek winter hike, located a short drive east of Canmore near Exshaw. What makes Jura Creek special are its two narrow slot canyons, which are especially fun to explore in winter. Depending on conditions, you’ll encounter sections of frozen creek, packed snow and rocks as you make your way through the canyon.

Johnston Canyon Ice Walk
For another impressive winter canyon experience, head into Banff National Park for the Johnston Canyon Ice Walk. Unlike Grotto Canyon and Jura Creek, much of this hike follows a maintained trail with suspended walkways built into the canyon walls. The frozen Lower and Upper Falls are the main attractions, and the Upper Falls are especially impressive when surrounded by large formations of ice.
You can normally explore Johnston Canyon independently or join a guided Johnston Canyon Ice Walk tour. For something different, evening ice walk tours let you experience the frozen canyon after dark with a guide.

Frozen Waterfalls Near Canmore
Some of the most impressive winter scenery in the Canadian Rockies can be found at frozen waterfalls, where flowing water turns into massive formations of ice. While there aren’t many frozen waterfalls right in Canmore, you’ll find several excellent winter hikes in nearby Kananaskis Country that are well worth the short drive.
As we mentioned in the ice walks section above, Grotto Canyon is one of the closest places to see a frozen waterfall near Canmore. It’s a great option for families, with the added fun of walking through a narrow canyon along a frozen creek bed.
Another favourite is Troll Falls in Kananaskis, about a 40-minute drive from Canmore. This is one of the best easy winter hikes in Kananaskis, making it a great choice for families or anyone looking for a shorter outing. The forested trail leads to an impressive frozen waterfall, and you can continue to the Upper Falls if conditions allow. The trail is usually well packed from other hikers, so snowshoes aren’t typically necessary, but we recommend microspikes for icy sections.

For experienced winter hikers looking for a bigger adventure, the Green Monster winter hike in Kananaskis is hard to beat. This longer hike follows Evan-Thomas Creek past a series of impressive frozen waterfalls before reaching the massive Green Monster waterfall. However, it’s a much more challenging outing, with sections that require using chains and ropes along narrow, exposed terrain with steep drop-offs. We only recommend this hike for well-prepared hikers who are comfortable with difficult winter conditions.
Local Tip
A Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for vehicles parked at designated provincial park and public land sites in Kananaskis Country and the Bow Valley, including the Canmore Nordic Centre and Grotto Canyon. The pass is not required to park within the Canmore townsite.
Winter Hiking in Canmore
Some of our favourite Canmore hiking trails are just as enjoyable in winter, with snow-covered forests, beautiful mountain scenery and fewer crowds. For most visitors, we recommend sticking to shorter, lower-elevation hikes that are manageable in winter conditions.
The Grassi Lakes hike is one of the best winter hikes in Canmore, with two beautiful lakes surrounded by snowy forests and towering cliffs. Follow the easier Upper Trail, as the more difficult Interpretive Trail is closed in winter. The trail is often packed down, but we recommend microspikes for slippery sections.
Another great family-friendly option is the Heart Creek Trail, a short drive east of Canmore. We’ve enjoyed this hike with our kids, who especially loved crossing the bridges along the creek. The forested canyon is beautiful in winter, and microspikes are helpful on icy sections.
For more options, check out our favourite easy winter hikes in Kananaskis.


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Classic Canadian Rockies Winter Adventures
Dog Sledding in Canmore
Imagine travelling through a snow-covered mountain valley behind a team of enthusiastic huskies! Dog sledding is a memorable way to experience winter in the Canadian Rockies, and Canmore is an excellent place to try it. You can sit back and enjoy the ride with an experienced musher or choose a tour where you get to help drive the sled.
There are three dog sledding companies near Canmore offering different experiences:
- Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours offers everything from introductory 2-hour dog sledding tours to full-day adventures and overnight trips. This is a great option for families or anyone wanting to spend more time learning about dog sledding.
- Howling Dog Tours offers a 2-hour tour and a longer half-day adventure in the Spray Lakes area of Kananaskis Country. Transportation from Canmore is included, making this a convenient option for visitors.
- Mad Dogs & Englishmen Expeditions offers several dog sledding experiences in Kananaskis, including shorter introductory tours and longer adventures. Their small-group tours are another option for visitors wanting a more personalized experience.
We recommend booking your Canmore dog sledding tour well in advance, especially if you’re visiting over Christmas or during other busy winter periods.

Local Tip
Looking for discounts on Banff and Canmore tours and attractions? We have negotiated a wide variety of discounts on many top Banff and Canmore tours and attractions. For more details, hop on over to our Banff Deals page.
Snowshoeing in Canmore
Fresh snow makes the forests around Canmore especially beautiful, and snowshoeing is a great way to explore them. While most walking trails in town become too packed down to need snowshoes, you’ll find some excellent snowshoe trails in Canmore and nearby Kananaskis Country.
For snowshoeing right in Canmore, we recommend the Canmore Nordic Centre, which has a designated 2.5 km snowshoe loop through the forest, including a section to Lookout Cliffs. Another option is the High Rockies Trail from the Goat Creek parking lot, although conditions will determine whether snowshoes or microspikes are more useful.
For a longer adventure, head into Kananaskis Country along the Smith-Dorrien Highway. The Chester Lake Snowshoe Trail is one of our favourites, with a beautiful mountain setting and a dedicated winter route. You’ll also find several easy snowshoe trails in Kananaskis that are great for beginners and families.

Try a Guided Snowshoe Adventures
One of the most memorable ways to experience snowshoeing around Canmore is to join a guided snowshoe adventure with Among the Trees. These private small groups outings take guests into quiet forested trails where they can experience the stillness of winter while learning about local wildlife, winter ecology and the history of the region.

Cross-Country Skiing in Canmore
Canmore is one of the best places in the Canadian Rockies for cross-country skiing, thanks to the excellent trails at the Canmore Nordic Centre. Originally built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, the Nordic Centre now offers over 65 km of groomed cross-country ski trails for beginners through to experienced skiers.
Whether you’re trying cross-country skiing for the first time or looking for a longer outing, you’ll find plenty of trails to choose from. There’s even an illuminated loop for night skiing! Trail Sports, located right at the Nordic Centre, offers equipment rentals and lessons, making it easy for visitors to give the sport a try.

When you’re ready for a break, head into the Day Lodge to warm up and grab something to eat or drink. The Nordic Centre is also a great place for families, with snowshoeing, tobogganing, fat biking and winter disc golf available.
Read More
If you’d like to explore beyond Canmore, check out our guide to the best cross-country ski trails in Kananaskis for more options.
Downhill Skiing Near Canmore
While there aren’t any downhill ski resorts right in Canmore, you’re within easy reach of three excellent ski hills in Banff National Park. Each offers a different experience, so it’s worth choosing the resort that best suits your skiing ability and the type of day you’re looking for.
- Banff Sunshine Village: One of the closest ski resorts to Canmore, Sunshine is known for its excellent natural snow, long ski season and wide variety of terrain. It’s a great choice for intermediate and experienced skiers, but also has dedicated beginner areas and lessons.
- Mt. Norquay: The smallest of the three Banff ski resorts, Norquay is a great option for families, beginners or anyone looking for a more relaxed ski day. It also offers challenging terrain for experienced skiers and night skiing on select evenings.
- Lake Louise Ski Resort: The largest of the three resorts, Lake Louise offers incredible mountain scenery and plenty of terrain for all abilities. It’s a great choice for groups with different skiing abilities, although it’s the furthest drive from Canmore.
You can drive to all three resorts, and ski shuttle options are available from Canmore for certain mountains. For help choosing the right hill, including transportation options, see our complete guide to the Banff ski resorts and how to get to each one.

Photo Credit: Lake Louise Ski Resort & Philip Forsey
Snow Tubing Near Canmore
You don’t need to know how to ski to enjoy racing down a snowy hill at one of the nearby ski resorts! Snow tubing is a super fun winter activity for families, couples and anyone looking for a little excitement in the mountains.
While there isn’t a snow tubing park in Canmore itself, you’ll find three options within driving distance:
- Mt. Norquay: The closest tube park to Canmore, located just outside Banff. Its tubing lanes and magic carpet lift make it a great choice for a fun outing without spending the entire day at a ski resort.
- Nakiska: Located in Kananaskis Country, Nakiska’s Wanidu Tube Park has three tubing lanes and is another good option for families.
- Lake Louise Ski Resort: The Sunny Tube Park is the furthest from Canmore, but a great option if you’re already planning to spend time exploring Lake Louise.
We’ve enjoyed snow tubing in Banff at both Mt. Norquay and Lake Louise. Our guide shares what to expect and tips for planning your visit.

Fat Biking in Canmore
Fat biking is a great way to explore Canmore’s winter trails, especially if you enjoy cycling or mountain biking. We’ve spent plenty of time fat biking around Canmore, and one thing we’ve learned is that snow conditions make a big difference. Firm, packed snow is much easier to ride than fresh powder!
If you’re new to fat biking, the pathways along the Bow River are a good place to start. The trails around Quarry Lake Recreation Area are another option, while more experienced riders will enjoy the designated winter singletrack at the Canmore Nordic Centre. You can rent a fat bike locally, including at Trail Sports at the Nordic Centre.
For more trail recommendations and practical tips, read our complete guide to fat biking in Canmore, Banff and Kananaskis.

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Unique Winter Adventures Near Canmore
Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary
If you love animals, a visit to the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is well worth the drive from Canmore. Located near Cochrane, the sanctuary provides a home for rescued wolfdogs while educating visitors about these fascinating animals and their behaviour. I’ve visited the sanctuary myself and absolutely loved the experience!
There are several ways to visit, but I’d recommend the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary Intro Tour. You’ll get an up-close view of the wolfdogs from a viewing platform while learning about their personalities, behaviours and the sanctuary’s rescue work. It’s a much more informative experience than simply walking around on your own.
You can also choose a self-guided Sanctuary Walk or book an Interactive Tour for an opportunity to get even closer to the wolfdogs. Keep in mind that minimum ages apply, starting at six years old for the Sanctuary Walk.

Canmore Cave Tours
Looking for a winter adventure that’s completely different from skiing or snowshoeing? Canmore Cave Tours takes you deep inside Rat’s Nest Cave, where you’ll crawl through narrow passages, squeeze between rocks and explore incredible underground caverns. The cave is open for guided tours year-round, making this a great activity in Canmore even on the coldest winter days.
There are two tours to choose from:
- Explorer Tour (4.5 hours): A great introduction to caving, with opportunities to explore ancient rock formations, crawl through passages and learn about the cave’s history. Suitable for ages 10 and up.
- Adventure Tour (6 hours): For those wanting a bigger adventure, this tour explores more of the cave and includes an exciting 18-metre rappel. No previous rappelling experience is required. Minimum age is 12.
Both tours involve physical activity, including an uphill hike to the cave entrance, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Independent access isn’t permitted, so be sure to book a guided tour in advance.

Ice Climbing Near Canmore
Ever wondered what it would be like to climb a frozen waterfall? Ice climbing is one of the more adventurous winter activities near Canmore, and you don’t need any previous climbing experience to give it a try!
A guided beginner ice climbing tour is a great introduction to the sport. With an experienced guide, you’ll learn how to use ice axes and crampons before putting your new skills to the test on a frozen waterfall. The necessary technical equipment is provided, so you don’t need to invest in expensive gear.
This is a great option for adventurous travellers looking to try something completely different during their winter trip to Canmore.

Winter Helicopter Tour
We’ve taken several helicopter rides around Canmore, and seeing the Canadian Rockies from above is an experience I’ll never get tired of! Flying past the rugged mountain peaks and looking down into the valleys gives you a completely different perspective of the area. The snow-covered landscape makes a winter helicopter tour especially memorable.
If your budget allows, Alpine Helicopters offers two excellent sightseeing tours departing directly from Canmore:
- 25-Minute Three Sisters Helicopter Tour: A great introduction to helicopter sightseeing in the Canadian Rockies. You’ll fly past Canmore’s famous Three Sisters mountains, over Spray Valley and Spray Lakes, with incredible views of the surrounding peaks.
- 35-Minute Mount Assiniboine and Glaciers Tour: For an extra 10 minutes in the air, this longer flight takes you farther into the mountains for views of Mount Assiniboine, alpine lakes and glaciers. I’d recommend this option if your budget allows.
Both tours are weather-dependent, so we recommend booking early in your trip in case your flight needs to be rescheduled.

Winter Disc Golf in Canmore
Disc golf isn’t just a summer activity in Canmore! If you’re looking for something different to do outside, you can still play during the winter months, although you’ll want to dress warmly and be prepared for snow.
The Canmore Nordic Centre has eight disc golf holes open in winter, with the remaining holes closed to avoid conflicts with cross-country skiers. You can pick up a winter course map and rent discs from Trail Sports if you don’t have your own equipment.
Canmore also has a disc golf course in the Three Sisters neighbourhood near the popular train playground.

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Relaxing and Indoor Things to Do in Canmore in Winter
Explore Downtown Canmore’s Art Galleries
Downtown Canmore has several excellent art galleries worth exploring, making this a great indoor activity on a cold winter day. My favourite is the Carter-Ryan Gallery on Main Street, featuring the colourful paintings and sculptures of local Indigenous artist Jason Carter. We own one of his paintings of the Three Sisters mountains, and it’s one of our most prized possessions!
For more art experiences in Canmore, check out the current exhibitions or workshops at artsPlace. Families can also try painting their own pottery at Crock A Doodle.
Warm up with a Coffee or Hot Chocolate
There is no shortage of great coffee shops in Canmore. Either grab a coffee for your winter walk by the river, or warm up in the coffee shop with a cup of jo before your next adventure!
Shopping in Downtown Canmore
You can easily spend an hour or two browsing the shops along Main Street in downtown Canmore. You’ll find everything from locally made gifts and Canadian souvenirs to outdoor clothing, books and unique home decor. It’s a great way to spend a cold winter afternoon, especially if you want a break from outdoor activities.
If you’re visiting Canmore with kids, be sure to stop at the Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe. With its huge selection of candy and nostalgic treats, it’s always a fun stop for the whole family.
Indoor Climbing in Canmore
For an active indoor adventure on a cold winter day, head to Elevation Place in downtown Canmore. Its impressive climbing wall has routes for all abilities, including beginners and children. Equipment rentals and auto-belay systems make it a great option for visitors who haven’t tried indoor climbing before.
Alternatively, Canmore Climbing Gym specializes in bouldering, where you climb shorter walls without ropes. It’s a good choice for experienced climbers or anyone interested in trying bouldering, with day passes available.

Visit the Canmore Museum
Canmore has a fascinating history as a coal mining town, and the Canmore Museum is a great place to learn about its past. Located in downtown Canmore, the museum’s Survival in Paradise exhibit shares stories from local coal miners, along with artifacts and photographs from the town’s mining history.
The museum also explores the area’s Indigenous heritage and the people who have lived in the Bow Valley for thousands of years. Be sure to check the current exhibitions, which change throughout the year. It’s a worthwhile indoor activity in Canmore on a cold winter day.
Kananaskis Nordic Spa
After a few days of winter adventures around Canmore, a relaxing visit to the Kananaskis Nordic Spa is a wonderful treat. Our realtor gifted us a visit here, and we absolutely loved relaxing in the outdoor pools surrounded by the beautiful mountain scenery.
Located in Kananaskis Village, the spa features hot and cold pools, saunas, steam cabins and relaxing areas with outdoor fire pits. You can move through the hydrotherapy circuit at your own pace, taking breaks to enjoy food and drinks at Two Trees Bistro. It’s a great way to spend a winter afternoon!
Mount Engadine Lodge Afternoon Tea
A scenic drive along the Smith-Dorrien Trail in Kananaskis is even better when you have somewhere cozy to stop along the way. Mount Engadine Lodge afternoon tea is a wonderful way to warm up and enjoy the mountain scenery without having to spend the night at the lodge.
Afternoon tea includes a charcuterie board with local meats and cheeses, homemade strudel, and freshly brewed coffee or tea. It’s served daily from 2 to 5 p.m. in the lodge or on the patio. Be sure to reserve ahead, as space for day visitors is limited.
Winter Events in Canmore
The Warm Up Winter Festival
Visiting Canmore in February? You might be lucky enough to catch The Warm Up, a winter festival that brings live music, art and entertainment to downtown Canmore.
Hosted by the Canmore Folk Music Festival and the Town of Canmore, the event features performances by local and Alberta artists at venues throughout downtown. It’s a fun way to experience Canmore’s arts and music scene while enjoying a winter evening in the mountains.
Check the official festival website for the latest schedule, participating venues and ticket information.
Where to Stay in Canmore in Winter
After a full day of exploring Canmore’s winter activities, there’s nothing better than returning to a warm, comfortable hotel. We especially recommend choosing accommodation with an outdoor hot tub, where you can relax while enjoying the snow-covered mountain scenery.
Canmore has plenty of excellent hotels and vacation rentals, including family-friendly suites with kitchens and fireplaces. Staying in Canmore also makes it easy to explore Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country.
Here are three of our favourite places to stay, or check out our guide to the best hotels in Canmore for more options.
Malcolm Hotel
For a luxurious winter stay in Canmore, the Malcolm Hotel is hard to beat. Imagine relaxing in the outdoor hot tubs or heated pool after a day of winter adventures, surrounded by beautiful views of the snow-covered Three Sisters mountains.
Located in the Spring Creek neighbourhood, the Malcolm Hotel is just a short walk from downtown Canmore’s restaurants and shops. With comfortable rooms and suites, on-site dining and underground parking, it’s an excellent choice for a winter getaway.
Travelling with your dog? The Malcolm is also one of our recommended pet-friendly hotels in Canmore.

Blackstone Mountain Lodge
For families looking for extra space during a winter getaway to Canmore, Blackstone Mountain Lodge is an excellent choice. Its 4have fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces and separate living areas, making them especially convenient for longer stays.
After a day of skiing or exploring, the whole family can enjoy the year-round outdoor heated pool and two hot tubs. Heated underground parking is another welcome benefit during a cold Canmore winter.

Pocaterra Inn
Families visiting Canmore in winter will love the Pocaterra Inn & Waterslide, especially its indoor swimming pool with a large waterslide, hot tub and sauna. It’s a great way for kids to burn off energy after a day exploring the mountains.
The hotel also offers complimentary breakfast, free parking and cozy rooms with fireplaces in most room categories. Its convenient location near the Trans-Canada Highway makes exploring Banff easy, while pet-friendly rooms are available if you’re travelling with your dog.

Canmore Winter Weather and Temperatures
When you plan a winter vacation in western Canada you need to be prepared for some frigid temperatures. In the winter months the cold temperatures can have you wanting to hibernate indoors, but aside from the worst days, if you’re well prepared you’ll be able to enjoy time outside!
The average temperatures in Canmore in winter are between -10 deg C and -1 deg C, but these are just averages. December and January are the coldest months, but at any time the temperatures can drop below -20 deg C (not accounting for wind chill). On the same token, temperatures can rise to above 0 deg C in a warm spell.
It can be hard to know how to prepare for this, but layers are your best choice.
What to Pack for Canmore in Winter
You want to make sure you are going to be warm for all your winter adventures in Canmore. Before visiting Canmore in winter, we strongly recommend you read our Banff winter packing list to ensure you have what you need to safely and comfortably enjoy your adventures in the Canadian Rockies.

Just know that there are plenty of places in Canmore where you can rent winter gear like micro-spikes, skates, skis, snowshoes and more.
Driving in Canmore in Winter
If you’re planning to rent a car to explore Canmore, Banff and Kananaskis in winter, it’s important to be prepared for changing road conditions. Snow and ice can make driving more challenging, especially if you’re not used to winter driving in the mountains.
We recommend renting a vehicle with proper winter tires, rather than relying on all-season tires. Winter tires provide better traction on snow and ice, which can make a big difference on mountain roads. Some highways, including the Icefields Parkway, have specific winter tire or chain requirements, so be sure to check these before your trip.

When driving in winter, slow down, leave plenty of space between vehicles and avoid using cruise control on slippery roads. It’s also a good idea to carry a winter emergency kit, extra warm clothing and a snow brush in your vehicle, even if you’re only planning a short drive.
Before heading out for any winter activities around Canmore, we recommend checking 511 Alberta for current road conditions and closures. This is especially important if you’re driving into Kananaskis Country or planning a longer scenic drive, as weather and road conditions can change quickly in the Canadian Rockies.
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Celine Brewer, a local Canmore resident, is the co-owner of Travel Banff Canada. She has a passion for being out in the mountains any time of year. In the summer, you'll often find her hiking or mountain biking. In the winter, she enjoys cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winter hiking the most.
As much as she loves the mountains, she also loves travel! When she's not playing outdoors at home, she's either traveling the world with her husband and two kids or working on their other two travel sites: Family Can Travel and Baby Can Travel.
