Spend 48 Fun-Filled Hours in Canmore 7

Spend 48 Fun-Filled Hours in Canmore

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  • Tourism Canmore Kananaskis - July 16, 2021

 

There’s nothing quite like a summer road trip. Luckily, there are endless options in Alberta to choose from. One of the most popular road trips from Calgary has to be a jaunt to Canmore and Kananaskis County – or K-Country, as the locals say. Just over an hour’s drive is all that stands between you and an escape to the Canadian Rockies.

Canmore or Kananaskis can be an easy day trip from Calgary, but why not opt for a longer getaway? We’ve done the legwork and curated some ideas to help you spend 48 fun-filled hours in Canmore.

Tip: Don’t forget to pack layers and sturdy shoes. The weather can change unexpectedly, and you’ll need supportive footwear if you’re interested in any hiking and outdoor activities. Bear spray is always a good idea, too.


Day 1

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If you want to get an early start, head to Canmore the night before. Treat yourself to a luxe room at
Malcolm Hotel or book a cozy stay at one of the many boutique hotels and lodges in town – Basecamp Lodge and Lodges at Canmore are popular choices.

Fuel up with breakfast and coffee at JK Bakery Cafe in Downtown Canmore. The smell of fresh coffee and all the baked goods coming out of the oven make for a delicious start to the day. 

Next stop: Grassi Lakes Trail. This is one of the most popular trails in Canmore, and you’ll quickly see why. Choose the easy or more difficult route and climb through lush scenery on your way to the two sparkling turquoise lakes at the top. The trail can get quite busy during the summer, but there are plenty of other picturesque routes for an easy morning hike or walk. The Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk and the Bow River Trail are great options to explore.

After your walk or hike, stop for lunch at Communitea Cafe, a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Pull up a seat in the colourful café or take your order to go and find some nearby green space for an impromptu picnic.

 

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Spend the afternoon on the water and learn to stand-up paddleboard – or practice your skills if you’re more experienced.
Book a rental with
Bow Valley SUP before you arrive and learn from experienced pros.

 

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Head back to the hotel to change and get ready for dinner in downtown Canmore. If you’re in the mood for a more casual atmosphere, try the
Grizzly Paw Brewing Company or The Drake Pub.
In the mood for a more upscale evening? Try
The Sensory, Tapas, 4296, Murrieta’s, The Stirling or änkôr

Day 2

Wake up with a healthy breakfast at the Harvest Café, which serves all kinds of delicious breakfast and lunch options. If you’d like to indulge a little, the café serves some of the best cinnamon buns around – go early before they sell out.

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One of the best ways to explore the Canmore area is with a knowledgeable tour guide. Spend the morning doing a medicine walk with Mahikan Trails and immerse yourself in nature.
Your guide will teach you all about the historical medicines of the boreal forest from a Cree perspective. The walk covers easy terrain and lasts about two hours.

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Up for a longer adventure? Explore the wonders underground with Canmore Cave Tours. No experience is required, and tours vary in length from four to six-and-a-half hours.

If you opted for a shorter morning excursion, take a stroll down Main Street Canmore and do some window shopping before stopping for lunch at Cabeza Grande or on the patio at Tavern 1883.

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Take one last adventure and see the Canadian Rockies from new heights. A tour with Alpine Helicopters is an unforgettable way to experience the mountains.

If you have time for dinner before you head out of town, try the fusion dishes at BLAKE or visit the Grizzly Paw Brewing Company’s sister restaurant, Tank 310, conveniently located right off Highway 1.