Not your average small town
Canmore is a small community surrounded by the towering peaks and flowing valleys of Kananaskis Country. With year-round activities like hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and more, it blends small-town charm with adventurous spirit.
There’s no single way to experience this place. Whether you come for the challenge, the scenery, or simply a change of pace, Canmore gives you the space to move to your own rhythm. Settle in, stay a while, and see what finds you here.
Location and Landscape
Canmore is a lively mountain town located just over an hour west of Calgary and a short drive from Banff National Park. Set in the Bow Valley along the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies, it’s known for its rugged peaks, turquoise rivers, and easy access to mountain recreation.
Quick Facts
- Latitude/Longitude: 51.087977, -115.349418.
- Elevation: 1,309 m (4,296 ft) at town centre.
- Geographic Location: 106 km (66 mi) west of Calgary; 22 km (12 mi) east of Banff on the Trans-Canada Highway. The closest international airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC).
- Population: According to the Government of Alberta, Canmore’s population is approximately 17,000 residents, making Canmore the largest community in Alberta’s Rockies.
- Economy: Primarily tourism and hospitality, with a mix of health and wellness, arts and culture, and sports.
- Lifestyle: A young, energetic, and diverse population that values outdoor adventure along with the amenities of urban living.
- Mountain Recreation: More than 71 km (44 mi) of multi-use trails within town limits and easy access to the mountains of Kananaskis Country and Banff National Park.
Landmarks and Attractions
From Olympic heritage sites to downtown streets framed by peaks, here are some of the Canmore’s most recognized landmarks and natural attractions:
- Canmore Nordic Centre: Built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, this world-class venue offers cross-country skiing, mountain biking, disc golf, and trail access year-round.
- Downtown Canmore & Main Street: A vibrant hub filled with art galleries, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, all framed by mountain views.
- Bow River & Riverside Park: A favourite for walking, picnicking, and photography, with beach access to turquoise waters carving through town.
- Local Trails & Lookouts: Easily accessible spots like Quarry Lake, Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk, and the Hoodoos Trail showcase mountain scenery right from the edge of town.
History and Culture
The Bow Valley has been home to Indigenous Peoples for generations, with archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. These living cultures still exist in the region today. Visitors are encouraged to explore these cultures in meaningful ways through Indigenous-owned experiences in the Bow Valley. In the Stoney Nakoda language, Canmore is known as Chuwapchipchiyan Kudi Bi, translated as “shooting at the willows”. The English name comes from the Gaelic phrase Ceann Mór, meaning “Big Head”, in honour of King Malcolm III of Scotland.
Today, Canmore is home to a mix of locals, seasonal residents, and visitors who value an active lifestyle, creative expression, and a welcoming atmosphere.
About Kananaskis
Learn about the surrounding mountains and valleys that give Canmore it’s character.