Canmore: Discover Trails, Water and History

Get to know Canmore through its trails, waterways and cultural attractions. If you’re looking for a hotel in Canmore, the variety of trails and seasonal outdoor experiences can shape your plans. Some routes are loops, while others are out-and-back trails or one-way routes. You’ll also find views of the Bow River and the mountains, seasonal birdwatching, swimming in summer, and places where the town’s history comes to life.

Trails by Length and Route

The 1.24 km Policeman's Creek Loop connects Main Street with Spring Creek and includes the Policeman's Creek Boardwalk. The boardwalk crosses a wetland rich in birdlife in spring and summer; sightings may vary. The 2.03 km Engine Bridge Loop features river views and the historic Canmore Engine Bridge. This scenic walking trail offers views of the Bow River and the mountains and crosses the bridge. The two loops differ in more than just length: the boardwalk and wetland shape the route at Policeman's Creek, while the Engine Bridge Loop combines river views with a bridge crossing.

The East Bow River Trail is 5.1 km long, follows an out-and-back route and offers views of the Bow River. It connects to Millennium Park. The paved West Bow River Pathway follows a different route: it runs 5.5 km one way from the Canmore Boat Launch to Three Sisters; the round trip is 11.0 km. The trail is maintained year-round. The paved Legacy Trail connects Canmore with Banff and is approximately 22 km one way. Check current trail conditions, access and possible closures before your trip.

Quarry Lake Park and Seasonal Nature

The Quarry Lake Park site was reclaimed from a former mining area. It offers views of Ha Ling Peak, Mount Lady MacDonald and the Rundle Range. Swimming is possible during the summer months; the swimming area is unsupervised, and swimming is at your own risk. The park therefore combines a reclaimed mining site with mountain views and a seasonal swimming opportunity. By contrast, the Policeman's Creek Loop takes you through a wetland known for its birdlife, particularly in spring and summer.

Canmore's History and Culture

The Canmore North-West Mounted Police (N.W.M.P.) Barracks building is one of Alberta's oldest surviving North West Mounted Police buildings. The Canmore Spur Line also reflects the history of mining: after the local coal mines closed, it became a walking trail. The Big Head sculpture marks the entrance to downtown. It was inspired by Canmore's Gaelic name, Ceannmore, meaning “big head” or “chief.”

The Canmore Museum is located in the Canmore Civic Centre downtown. The museum shop offers locally made art representing Canmore's culture, history and landscapes; the selection may change. The Stan Rogers Stage is Canmore's only outdoor performance venue and hosts events including the Canmore Folk Festival. The festival is considered Alberta's longest-running folk music festival and takes place in Centennial Park. Dates and programming vary from year to year.

Trails and Getting Around

Canmore's local trail network includes more than 80 km of trails and paths. These include routes for walking, cycling and cross-country skiing in winter. The trails vary considerably in length and format, from a loop or an out-and-back route to a connection that is approximately 22 km one way. These differences can help you choose trail options to suit the time you have planned, without treating loop distances and one-way distances as equivalent.

Roam Transit routes 5C and 5T are free for everyone traveling within Canmore. Routes and fares may change, so check the latest information before your trip.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Jasper, Morley, Dead Man's Flats, Castle Junction, Crowsnest Pass, Sunwapta, Banff, Lake Louise.

For the broader travel overview: Division No. 15.