Everything You Need to Know About Biking in Canmore and Kananaskis
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- Tourism Canmore Kananaskis - August 6, 2025
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What you’ll find in this post:
There’s something about riding a bike through mountains that just hits differently. In Canmore and Kananaskis, you’re surrounded by ridgelines, wildflowers, and open sky. Some rides are smooth and paved, others are bumpy and wild. Choose what fits your mood, your skill, and your curiosity. Your ride starts here.
Wildlife is common throughout the Bow Valley, including bears, elk, moose, and more. Encounters can happen anywhere on the trails, so it’s important to know how to reduce risk and respond safely if needed. For tips, read our wildlife safety guide for outdoor adventures in the Canadian Rockies.
Plan out your route in advance and bring or download an offline map to help navigate the trail networks. Most trails are rideable between May and October, but trail conditions can change quickly, so always check the weather forecast before you head out. If you are planning on driving to Kananaskis Country to start your ride, make sure to purchase a valid Kananaskis Conservation Pass for your vehicle.
A few basics to keep in your pack or bike frame:
Quick-dry layers work best. Weather can shift quickly, so dress for wind, heat, and the occasional surprise rain shower. You’ll want:
You can find bike rentals in Canmore at several shops:
Not sure what type of bike you need? Staff in local shops are happy to help match you to the right gear based on your planned ride.
Legacy Trail: Smooth, scenic, and popular, this paved route connects Canmore to Banff and runs approximately 22 kilometres (13.6 mi) one way. Read our Legacy Trail blog post for more information.
Highwood Pass: The highest paved road in Canada, Highwood Pass flows through the mountain ranges of Kananaskis Country. Read our Highwood Pass blog post for more information.
Riverside Pathway: A paved pathway that links downtown Canmore to the Three Sisters Mountain Village neighbourhood with unparalleled views of the Bow River.
Local trails in Canmore: Meander through the local trail network and explore the town at your own pace.
Canmore Nordic Centre (CNC) trails: The CNC has over 100 kilometres (62 mi) of riding trails that meander through forests and meadows. Riders are treated to breathtaking views of the mountains of the Bow Valley.
Montane, Horseshoe, and G8 trails: A network of trails above residential neighbourhoods on the north side of Canmore.
Quarry Lake trails: Gentle, flowy trails that are great for beginners, with the iconic Quarry Lake just nearby for a quick swim to cool off when you are finished with your ride.
For more details, read our blog post about mountain biking in Canmore.
Fat biking is a fun way to explore winter trails on two wheels. You can ride many of the same routes used in summer, including the Canmore Nordic Centre and designated multi-use paths around town.
To learn more, read our blog post about fat biking in Canmore.
In Canmore and Kananaskis, our natural ecosystems and stunning landscapes are the heart and soul of our local mountain culture. Before your visit, we encourage you to sign the Pledge to the Peaks, committing to mindful exploration to ensure the safety of all inhabitants of the region and preserve the beauty of our unfiltered wilderness for generations to come.