8 Kananaskis and Canmore Winter Activities to Try This Winter

Winter in the Canadian Rockies is full of breathtaking experiences at every turn. A popular destination, Canmore offers totally different landscapes and opportunities for adventure when the snow falls, making it the ideal winter retreat.

Whether you’re looking for an active ski trip, or a secluded, romantic getaway at a rustic lodge, these Canmore winter activities offer something for everyone. Here are 8 ways to make the most of the mountains this winter.

Stay in the Heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains

The beautiful and historic town of Canmore makes for an idyllic base camp while you explore. Conveniently situated an hour’s drive from Calgary and on the doorstep of Banff National Park, Canmore offers a plethora of accommodation options, and easy access to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Canadian Rockies.

Photo Credit: Travel Alberta Mike Seehagel

1. Explore Beautiful Downtown Canmore

Before heading out into the wilderness for your backcountry adventures, take some time to stroll the quaint streets of Canmore. The downtown core is wonderfully walkable, and you’ll love taking in the views of the mountains as you wander 8th Street, the town’s main drive.

Storefronts feature plenty of artisanal creations by local creators, so you’re guaranteed to find the perfect souvenir. It’s easy to while away a morning window shopping and perusing multiple local art galleries, followed by a break for a hot drink and a sweet treat from one of the many local cafes.

2. Ski at the Canmore Nordic Centre

Strap on your skis and discover Canmore’s cross country skiing scene! Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park is a training ground for many Canadian Olympic athletes, and the centre boasts an incredible range of beautifully cut and groomed ski tracks situated beneath the towering Mount Rundle.

If you’re new to skiing, don’t worry—you’ll find easy green runs through to double black racing tracks for you to practice your skills. Grab your on-site rentals and hit the trails with Canmore cross country skiing!

Cross Country skiing at Canmore Nordic Centre — Photo Credit: Matthew Clark @stirlandraephoto

3. Light Up The Night at Grotto Canyon

Grotto Canyon becomes a work of art in the winter, as creeks and waterfalls freeze solid into beautifully unique sculptures. . The sculpted limestone of the canyons becomes more intriguing with a nighttime hike, when the beams from headlamps spotlight the natural shapes.

Located on the slopes of Grotto Mountain, Grotto Canyon’s beauty and wonder is enhanced once the sun sets and the stars light up the sky. With headlamps and ice cleats, an evening stroll through the canyon can offer a once in a lifetime experience for visitors. The ethereal light from the headlamps light up the ice formations and create something truly magical to behold. Canmore winter activities like this one require a bit of planning. Let an experienced guide provide the right gear and show you the area so you can make the most of the marvelous Evening Grotto Canyon Ice Walk.

4. Discover the Solitude of Kananaskis Snowshoeing

Kananaskis snowshoeing makes the snow-covered forests of the mountain valley accessible, and you’ll rejoice at the untouched beauty. Look for animal tracks as you make your way through the pristine powder, and pause for a break to soak up the splendid mountain scenery with a cup of hot chocolate in hand. If you didn’t bring your snowshoes, don't worry! Private guided winter tours come with everything you need to tick off this bucket list activity.

5. Sink into Steamy Nordic Pools

After so much fresh mountain air, you’re probably ready for a bit of R and R! You won’t want to miss the Kananaskis Nordic Spa in Kananaskis Village. The spa is perfectly situated enroute to and from the trailhead in K-Country, so you can end your day with the authentically Scandinavian bathing pools and saunas. If you’re looking to spoil yourself, there are options to add in massages, as well as other spa treatments. Or, indulge in a gourmet meal at one of the eateries of the adjoining Pomeroy Hotel. This is the ideal way to personalize your guided Kananaskis snowshoeing experience.

Dog Sledding — Photo Credit: Travel Alberta Mike Seehagel

6. Gaze Down at the Mountains With a Helicopter Tour

Experience an unforgettable new perspective and see the Canadian Rockies like never before. Alpine Helicopters offers sightseeing tours right from Canmore, so you can get up close and personal with the surrounding peaks.

Don’t forget your camera—these tours present amazing photo opportunities of Three Sisters, Mount Assiniboine, Marvel Pass or the Continental Divide. Whatever you choose, you’ll remember your view from the clouds forever.

7. Dog Sled Across a Frozen Lake

Fly across a frozen lake, led by your own team of eager huskies! Surrounded by awe inspiring mountain ranges, this authentically Canadian experience is a must for any dog lover. Meet your Snowy Owl musher and greet your dog team before you glide along the pristine tundra of the Rockies in this thrilling form of transportation.

Soak in the incredible views, but also learn about and connect with your team of dogs.. Your dedicated guide will share about the team and their personalities, their training and more. Be sure to add dog sledding to your itinerary—it pairs well with private snowshoeing or ice hiking activities to round out your tailor-made trip.

Banff in Winter — Photo Credit: Paul Zizka

8. Visit Famous Banff National Park

No trip to the Canadian Rockies is complete without visiting historical Banff National Park. The picturesque town of Banff offers highlights like local shops, cafes, galleries and museums just waiting to be explored. After a long day, take a dip in the famous Banff Hot Springs, or take a gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain and gaze out across the endless snow-capped peaks.

Then, head out to world-renowned Lake Louise. You’ll want to ice skate across its frozen surface, then strap on your Nordic skis to glide across the many nearby groomed trails. After, enjoy a well-deserved drink at the Chateau Lake Louise’s outdoor ice bar.

See What Awaits in the Canadian Rockies

The best way to ensure you don’t miss a thing is to hire a local guide who can show you an unforgettable winter getaway. Canadian Rockies Experience tours are private, customized experiences of Canmore winter activities and more, so you can have the luxury vacation of your dreams. Leave the planning to us and enjoy the sights.