This is Winter in Canmore & Kananaskis
Winter changes the pace in Canmore and Kananaskis. Snowy trails lead into quiet forests, frozen landscapes open up new ways to explore, followed by warm places to eat, stay and unwind after a day of discovery. Whether you want a big mountain adventure, a family snow day or a slower escape, you’ll find your kind of winter here.
Your Kind of Winter
However you like to winter, you’ll find your kind of adventure here. Mush through the mountains, bike across snow, climb a frozen waterfall, glide along Nordic tracks or spend the day on the slopes. Go big, take it easy or try something completely new. The Canmore and Kananaskis are yours to explore.
Make it a snow day
Snow days are better days. Skate, ski, sled and play your way through winter with mountain fun for every age and pace. Try tubing, take a family snowshoe, glide around an outdoor rink or simply find a fresh pile of snow. Around here, everyone gets to be a kid for the day.
Winter Worth the Journey
Big mountains. Wild adventures. Winter on an epic scale. Towering peaks, frozen lakes and snow-covered valleys turn every direction into a reason to stop and look. Make the landscape part of the adventure on a guided snowshoe, winter hike, scenic helicopter flight, stargazing experience or drive through Kananaskis.
Cool Experiences
Winter is cooler here. Discover guided ice walks, dogsledding, skiing, fat biking, snowshoeing, caving and more.
Cozy Stays
Big winter days deserve a warm welcome. Find cozy cabins, mountain lodges, downtown hotels and spacious suites that make it easy to settle in and stay awhile.
Food and Drink
We craft our own moments. Dine out in Canmore and Kananaskis with happy hours and happier nights.
Winter Recreation
Ski, skate, snowshoe, climb, hike or bike your way through winter. With options for first-timers and seasoned adventurers, the hardest part is deciding where to start.
Winter Tours
Let a local guide open the door to something new, from ice climbing and dogsledding to caving, snowshoeing and scenic flights over the Rockies.
Sightseeing & Exploration
Take in frozen canyons, mountain viewpoints, cultural stops and unforgettable winter scenery. Some of the best moments begin by simply looking around.
Plan Your Trip
Build a winter getaway around the pace that suits you. Save places to stay, activities, restaurants and attractions in one trip plan, then keep it close while you explore.
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Getting Here
You’ll find us among the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, 88 kilometers (55 miles) west of Calgary and minutes away from the east gate of Banff National Park.
About Canmore
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.
About Kananaskis
Kananaskis is a playground of unfiltered wilderness that surrounds the town of Canmore and runs alongside Banff National Park. It’s known for its untamed mountain vibe and raw beauty, offering countless ways to explore, recharge, and connect with nature.
Trip Ideas
When you plan a visit to Canmore and Kananaskis, there are so many things to do it can be hard to know where to begin. We’ve pulled together a couple of handy guides for you to get started with planning your next adventure.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the best things to do in Canmore in the winter?
Popular winter experiences include cross-country skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, fat biking, ice skating, dogsledding, ice climbing and canyon walks. You can also explore Canmore’s shops, restaurants, galleries, indoor attractions and spas when you are ready to warm up. Explore all things to do.
Is Canmore and Kananaskis good for a family winter trip?
Yes. Families can choose from skating, tubing, ski lessons, snowshoe outings, sleigh rides and indoor recreation. Canmore also has family-friendly accommodations, restaurants and events, making it easy to balance outdoor play with warm, relaxed time together.
When is winter in Canmore and Kananaskis?
Winter conditions typically run from November into April, although snowfall, trail conditions and operating dates vary by year and elevation. Check current conditions and confirm seasonal activities with the operator before you go.
Where can I ski and snowboard near Canmore?
Nakiska Ski Area is located in Kananaskis and offers downhill skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Mt. Norquay, Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise Ski Resort are also within reach in nearby Banff National Park. Canmore is also known for cross-country skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre.
How cold does Canmore get in the winter?
Temperatures can stay below freezing and can drop much lower during cold snaps, especially overnight and at higher elevations. Mountain weather changes quickly, so check the forecast close to your visit and bring thermal layers, an insulated outer layer, warm boots, gloves and headwear. Learn more here.
Do I need a car to visit Canmore in winter?
Not necessarily. Shuttles and buses connect Calgary International Airport with Canmore, and much of Canmore is easy to explore on foot or by local transit. A vehicle offers more flexibility for Kananaskis, but if you drive, winter tires are strongly recommended and you should check road conditions before leaving. Check out our getting around page for more information.
Is it safe to walk or skate on frozen lakes?
Natural ice is never automatically safe. Conditions can vary across the same surface and change quickly. Check current local guidance, use maintained skating areas when available and never rely on appearance alone.
Where should I stay for a winter trip to Canmore and Kananaskis?
Canmore offers hotels, lodges, hostels, vacation rentals and cabins close to restaurants, shops and services. Stay near downtown for easy access to town, or head into Kananaskis for lodges and hotels set closer to the trails. Book early for holiday periods and popular winter weekends. The best hotels and accommodations.