Things to do in Kananaskis Country in October

When is your trip?

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Looking for a different month?

Overview

October is a good time to visit Kananaskis Country.

Kananaskis Country has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your October trip to Kananaskis Country. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to October. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

Visiting Kananaskis Country? See our Kananaskis Country Trip Planner.
Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Learn more
What users say about the app

Best events and things to do in Kananaskis Country in October

Top experiences in October
We couldn't find any experiences in October
Holidays in Kananaskis Country in October
October
  • Thanksgiving Day (October 12)
  • Halloween (October 31)
Other notable holidays
Create your ultimate travel itinerary

Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.

Learn more

Best attractions for Kananaskis Country in October

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Kananaskis Country has to offer for travelers in October, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Kananaskis Country that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Kananaskis Country for October.
Grassi Lakes
1. Grassi Lakes
4.8
(865)
Lake
Nature & Parks
Green-blue mountain lakes attracting hikers & rock climbers for its scenic routes.
Slide 1 of 8
Absolutely beautiful lakes after about ~1h hike, with a stunning blue-green colour and a very serene setting in the middle of the mountains and forests. There are two trail options to reach the lakes, one being very easy and the other more challenging with steeper sections. The views at atmosphere at the lakes make the effort completely worthwhile.
Beautiful, family-friendly hike! I visited Grassi Lakes Interpretive Trail yesterday and it was such a lovely experience. The trail is well marked and not too difficult, making it great for families, casual hikers or anyone looking to enjoy nature without a super strenuous climb. The views along the way are stunning, especially when you reach the crystal clear turquoise lakes at the top. There are two route options. The easier path is perfect if you are with kids or want a steady stroll, while the more challenging route rewards you with waterfalls and extra scenery. Both are worth it. Parking can get busy, so I recommend going earlier in the day if possible. Overall, it is an absolute gem in Canmore and one I would happily do again.
Just outside of Canmore is this neat hidden gem worth hiking to! The path markers are wrong as far as distance so anticipate a little more. The hike to the Lake is all up hill but coming back is all downhill. GPS will take you past it to the wrong spot to Whiteman’s Lake so when you see the sign for the parking lot take it! Port a potty’s have no sinks so bring wipes or sanitizer. This gem is worth the hike, people complain about it being busy but of course. It’s a tourist area and people come here. So don’t let that discourage you! We thoroughly enjoyed this. Took about 2 hours to hike up to it, see it and come back. We did spend a good amount of time there too!
A chill hike with stunning views. Personally for me the interpretive trail was easier- gradual incline with a push towards the end on the stairs, but you wont feel it as the views will have you make frequent photo stops. Then make the loop to go down through the other side, which would be a steep incline all the way (and no views) if you choose to go up this way.
Absolutely beautiful no matter the weather! Probably the best bang for your climbing efforts if you can't do anything else in Canmore. Trailhead bottom has a lot of free parking and toilets. The hike itself is a very easy 2km with rewarding views overlooking the lakes, and you get to see crystal-clear lakes at the top as well!
Great views. Lots of trails around the lakes. Walked 9km. Beautiful and clear early morning . Easy route bypasses a lot of scenery but allows all levels of hikers access to the two lakes .
We took the unpaved road to go up to see this pretty lake from top, view was breathtaking but the road was super scary and steep and narrow so veey hard if 2 cars go up the same time, wish we had taken the lower parking to just see it but we wanted to see it from up so took that road, other than that Very pretty lake, beautiful views, you can soak in the nature, breathe in and take nice pictures. The parking lot is decent,there’s washrooms and short walk so definitely must try!
The interpretive trail is challenging, but as a 58 year old, with bad knees, I would totally do it again. Come back the easy trail (dirt path) and you will make a complete loop back to the parking lot. The views from the interpretive trail are worth losing your breath!
Canmore Cave Tours
2. Canmore Cave Tours
4.9
(595)
Tour agency
Nature & Parks
Slide 1 of 8
Awesome experience at Canmore Cave Tour. We went with our three teenage children and they are still talking about it. The hike to the top is a moderate hike. I would suggest to dress in layers. It was 23 degrees at 9:30am outside and about 5 degrees in the caves. Our Tour guide was Brent and he was amazing, funny and knowledgeable. He made the 4.5 hours even better. This is not a walk in the park and even though we are a physical fit family, there were some parts in the cave that required good upper body strength and perseverance. This is a unique 55m plunge to another world. Great fun and a good challenge.
The tour was more intense than I expected and I loved it! I've done a cave tour in New Zealand and it was nice, but mostly walking. We did the Adventure tour which had some polished climbing sections , a rappel, and some optional very tight squeezes (The second photo is in the optional Laundry Chute, which was tight but super fun!). This tour was definitely worth the cost and I totally recommend it for someone with at least moderate fitness
Canmore Cave Tours is SO much fun! I brought a group of 7 to do the Adventure Tour. Our guide Annie was so knowledgeable and kept us calm and safe while exploring the caves. I highly recommended doing a tour with them, I gained so much confidence in myself and it was such a good way to bond with my friends (who are all different body shapes & sizes). When we left the cave, my friends and I all said we want to go AGAIN or maybe even take a caving course with them!! Additionally, if you have any hesitations or questions, their admin was super helpful and informative.
Amaaazing adventure 🫶! Loved it! I took the Adventurous Tour — we started around 10:15 am and finished about 4 pm. We met at the office, tried on our overalls and gloves, grabbed our gear, drove a short distance, and then hiked about 30–40 minutes up Grotto Mountain. At the shelter, we had some snacks, got fully geared up, and headed off to the caves. We spent about 3.5 to 4 hours inside, and it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted! We rappelled about 20 meters into the dark, squeezed through the “Laundry Chute,” and explored so many cool spots. It was so peaceful and full of great memories. Since it was shoulder season, there were only five of us — we had the whole cave to ourselves! Our guide, John, was patient and full of amazing stories about wildlife and geology. Wouldn’t change a thing. Highly recommend — thank you!🫶🫶🫶
What an incredible experience this adventure with Canmore cave tours was. My sister, my son and I went on an epic cave tour of the rats nest cave by Canmore. Holy moly!! I can’t say enough good words! Our cave guide Annie was super amazing!! She was very friendly, knowledgeable, and very encouraging! She definitely helped us push our limits today. It was just an all around super day!! Thanks so much!! 20/10 experience. 10 stars, five isn’t enough!!!!
We did the adventure tour with Brent. It was our first time in a cave, and it was the best outdoor (indoor?) experience of my life. Brent was an amazing, highly knowledgeable, and friendly guide. He was attentive to everyone’s safety without ever being overbearing. He motivated us to push our limits and offered encouragement when needed. The cave itself was stunning, and I only wish we could have stayed longer and explored more. I’m deeply grateful for the experience and can’t wait to one day be back in a cave!
Took my 3 boys today. Very fun experience. Our guide John was friendly and knowledgeable. Fairly challenging scrambling at times, with some sections requiring safety rope.
Amazing, awesome, and incredible!! Our group was amazing and our guide Annie was amazing and so friendly! Even when someone in our group dislocated her shoulder (not at all anyone's fault, it's an old injury), Annie was very calm and reassuring and she and John helped her slowly back up and got her out! Anyways very good very fun, we all had an amazing experience!! 10000/10 stars, would do again!!
Canmore Nordic Centre
3. Canmore Nordic Centre
4.7
(2319)
Hiking area
Outdoor Activities
Park in the foothills offering a network of cross-country skiing, mountain biking & hiking trails.
Slide 1 of 8
The tracks were set the best they could be, but there was very little snow at lower elevations to have great tracks. Coming from Saskatchewan, I was amazed at the number of routes within this one area! I’m used to having 1-2 options, so this was great. Awesome views and exercise - especially once you can get off the Banff Trail.
World class facility. It has the best, and most beautiful, disc golf course in Alberta. There is a riding path right right next to it with jumps and high angle curves. Wildlife like deer all over the course. It's really incredible.
The Nordic Center is awesome! Fun times on good trails all season long. The day lodge has a small cafeteria; WiFi is available and password protected. Check the website before you go to see if there is an event while you're here and if there are any trail closures. Large sections of the park don't have cell service. Download your maps and carry an InReach.
Amazing variety of mountain bike terrain surrounded by gorgeous views. The day lodge facility is pretty nice with seating, information desk and a cafeteria. I got a flat tire on one of the trails and the staff at the bike shop by the day lodge let me use their tools and stand so I could fix it. There is a lot of construction by the biathlon range (north end of day lodge / parking area complex) which made it a bit disorienting when trying to find some of the trailheads but you forget about that once you're out there.
Lovely in winter or summer. I was surprised to see the cafeteria open! Good looking snacks - don’t get anything myself.
Was here at the end of September. This is the time between summer and winter. So not a lot of people. I was here to register my car for the Kananaskis Park. You give them your plate number. Now if I park in the Park, I won't get a ticket. I registered my rental car but if I return again I can update the plate number to my next car. I was staying in the area for 12 days. An annual pass is cheaper than 12 one day passes. There is a lot of history about cross country skiing and biathlon. Go to the cafeteria area and check out the displays. Only took a couple of minutes to buy a pass. Plenty of parking. We also walked around the area on some of the nearby trails. Close to Canmore and stunningly beautiful area.
Had a fantastic day x-country skiing at the Nordic Centre. Love that you pay for your pass and can literally walk out the back door and be on a trail. The trails were well groomed and well marked. Loved the chalet as well, was cozy and had bathrooms, water fountains, loads of tables and a fire place. There’s also a good café there. If you need to secure anything you can rent a locker for 25 cents.
This was my first time at Canmore Nordic Centre, what an amazing facility and the trails were steeped in beauty and wonder! It was the perfect alternative to Downhill skiing. We skied at the foot of the mountains. The trail was groomed and they even make their own snow, which was a blessing as there's not been enough snow this year (so far). There was also a place to rent Nordic skis, if you don't have your own.
Ha Ling Peak
4. Ha Ling Peak
4.8
(291)
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Popular among hikers, scramblers & climbers, this peak offers a trail to the top with scenic views.
Slide 1 of 8
The hike offers a mesmerizing view and is well-marked all the way through. It gets windy near the top, especially after the third set of wooden stairs, so spikes and hiking poles are highly recommended. Be sure to bring plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, along with some snacks for energy.
Man, what a hike! I would consider this hike Moderately challenging, all dependant on the time of year that you are going. I went in spring so there was a lot of snow and ice still present. Lots of steep inclines. The trail up was very messy and mucky, so wear appropriate footwear. When getting closer to the summit; having spikes/crampons makes a world of a difference as it gets really really slippery. We witnessed quite a few people bail. The last 300m of the hike to the summit is a scramble, and the winds are pretty high so make sure you dress warm. The summit was pretty cold and I was just wearing a hoody, so a wind breaker would be a game changer. I did this hike without any poles, but hiking poles would be very beneficial!! Whole hike took me about 4 and a half hours in total, with lots of stops along the way to take pictures. I would like to do this hike again with the knowledge I have now, as I would be better prepared! The hike is definitely worth it, with some very rewarding views for the amount of effort you put in!
The Ha Ling peak is a well-maintained moderate trail that’s definitely worth the effort. It takes around 3 hours up and down, making it a great half-day adventure. Along the way, there are two scenic viewpoints where you can pause, take photos, and enjoy the stunning surroundings before reaching the top. Good hiking shoes are a must, and it’s a smart idea to bring snacks and plenty of water. The summit can get quite windy, so carrying a sweater or light jacket will keep you comfortable. Another plus is the ample free parking available at the trailhead, which makes access super convenient. Overall, a rewarding hike with breathtaking views—highly recommended!
Beautiful hike. Well maintained and a perfect workout. Hiking poles are recommended as well as be prepared for sudden weather changes. It started raining with hailstones while we were descending.
Great hiking place. It is not supper hard but is not for bigginerns either. There are supposed to be 2 viewpoints before reaching the top. Only one of them is well marked. It is a busy place, so u won't feel alone and a lot of people around to help in case u need it. There are beautiful views, and you have access to 3 different mountains peaks. The route starts from the parking lot (it is big). I got there at 9 a.m., and I was on the top by 11.15 a.m., and I took a nice break on viewpoint 1. After that, the hike gets steeper and is a bit harder 😅 but if you go to your own peace, it's manageable. My recommendations are: Arrive early Bring water or any liquid that keeps you hydrated Do the hike with plenty of time once you reach the top. You might as well enjoy the time there (I was there for like 3 hours i had breakfast, and i took a short nap) Get yourself a good pair of shoes. i got my sneakers on, and they were great, but I saw a lot of people's using boots. I think that you need to pay for a pass because when I was leaving there was a guy talking pictures of the cars plates (be aware of that) The must important have fun and enjoy every step to the top, admired the view and be happy. I think that is all I can remember. I'm going to leave you with some pictures so u have an idea of what to expect. I did the hike on May 25/2025
My family and I have completed this hike a few times. It's definitely one of our favorite hikes when visiting the area. Your legs will burn all the way up but it's worth it for the view and experience. The hike took us 4 hours but that's with plenty of short breaks and time spent at the peak. The parking lot is located just past the construction (gps tells you to park just before it).
Nice hike took me about 3 and half hours there and back, took some breaks and enjoyed the the view at the peak for about 30 mins, definitely worth , hiking sticks will greatly help
Absolutely stunning hike that offers a rewarding challenge. Rated moderate to hard, it took me about 3.5 hours to ascend and 2 hours to descend, making it a perfect day trip. The elevation gain is substantial, adding to the intensity, but the panoramic mountain views from the top are more than worth the effort. What impressed me most was how safe the trail felt, despite being a bit challenging. If you're looking for a hike with breathtaking scenery and a bit of a workout, Ha Ling Peak is a must-do!
Policeman Creek Trail
5. Policeman Creek Trail
4.8
(450)
Park
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 8
It’s a very fancy walk in the middle of nature created on a wetland. It’s good in all season. Views are amazing. There are some benches to enjoy the quality time in the middle of nature. It’s a beautiful creek to walk on. Good for all age people.
I loved this trail so much. The biodiversity is gorgeous and I love seeing the mountains in the background the whole way through. It’s a nice little break from the busy city.
Beautiful place for a stroll after dinner or anytime actually. We have been here a few times and love it every time! The boardwalk is fun to walk on. We had seen kingfishers here before, as well as other species of birds.
This is an incredibly beautiful trail along the creek. It is mostly paved or hard packed with wooden footbridges through the marsh areas. It continues through residential areas and there are numerous park benches for resting. The places where it crosses roadways offers beautiful photo opportunities from the multiple bridges. It’s spectacular at sunrise and sunset.
An absolute pleasure walking this trail to see all the beautiful fall colours with the mountains in the background. Easily accessible and an easy walk. Street parking available. You can walk one way along the boardwalk and then come back on the other side of the creek. Don’t forget to stop and view the Heart of Canmore as well!
Very well maintained boardwalk. Lovely views. Not too much extensive walking but once you get on and go far in enough, you must "commit" to it because there is no getting off other than the start or finish entries that connect to solid land.
It is an absolute joy to be in Rockies and in the town of Canmore. This board walk along the river in a bit of forest in town's heart makes for a gorgeous walk anytime of the year. Latest I visited was in December (-27°C) and man it was nippy, but gorgeous nonetheless. As there are plenty of coffee shops and food establishments in the near vicinity, defrosting wasn't an issue.
My family and I have walked the Policeman Creek trail many times. It's a beautiful trail with amazing views of the mountains. The location is convenient to downtown Canmore. When we're in Canmore we will just walk from downtown to the trail. It's a nice place for photos.
The Canmore ("Big Head" Sculpture)
6. The Canmore ("Big Head" Sculpture)
4.5
(107)
Sculpture
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 8
This was our second trip to Canmore. With snow covered peaks on all 4 sides, the town is straight out of a fairy tale. Plus the stone and wood houses/ buildings lend it an altogether different charm.
Awesome giant head sculpture emerging from or sinking into the ground. It's open for you to decide. I think it's very cool. It was a must see!
from this spot you can enjoy a lot of thing from walking to photography. not to far, nice and clean for walking.
Opposite the Big Head is the boardwalk surrounded by clear pristine water, continue straight ahead is the main st of Canmore, aligned and adorned with flowers, creating a very inviting atmosphere in the summer, loving the coffee shops with seating under trees canopies. Smells of sizzling foods, coffees, bubbles tea. All my friends from Australia wanting to book a holiday here.
Located in core downtown. Pleasant place. It just beside the busy road . The side is like 4 - 5 feet
One of the things to do in Canmore, opposite this place is Policemen’s Creek Boardwalk, good to visit these two places together.
Just a big concrete head. Nothing more nothing less. We took a few pictures with it.
The downtown in general is good for shopping and walking around .But just for this sculpture there is no stop or anything around this sculpture like a park . It is on the busy street . Just good with passing by view through car but would not stop for this sculpture alone .
Upper Kananaskis Lake
7. Upper Kananaskis Lake
4.9
(335)
Lake
Nature & Parks
Large, scenic lake surrounded by woods with hiking trails, skiing routes & sweeping mountain views.
Slide 1 of 8
It's a very nice circular route, about 17 km. In general, this route is considered average, but I would say that it is easy, the only thing is the distance, but there are no elevation changes, it takes an average of 5 hours to complete it. It is a very popular place for backpacking, camping and hiking.
Wonderful spot to visit with the family and friends! There are public bathrooms close and parking. I recommend!
Soo glad I finally made it to Upper Kananaskis Lake! This place is honestly a hidden gem. The whole lake is surrounded by mountains and pine trees—just pure, peaceful nature everywhere you look. I found my perfect little spot by the water to just sit, breathe, and completely unwind. The air feels so fresh, you can hear the soft sound of the waves, and the views are unreal. Spent hours just exploring the trail, taking photos, and honestly just having fun. It’s one of those spots where you instantly feel calm and happy. Already planning my next visit! If you’re craving a peaceful outdoor escape, Upper Kananaskis Lake is totally the place to be.
Sunday October 26, 2025, I drive my old friends wth my wife and the view was stunning with the mountain backdrop. Definitely recommend for any age groups.
It was snowy and foggy when we arrived here but the view is still stunning and breathtaking. The snow peak was hidden and veiled by fog and clouds, like everything slows down. Kids were having fun by the lake and I gained the inner peace here. Totally worth to detour and hang out. We would like to check out next time in summer.
Majestic view and a nice walking trail around.
Absolutely beautiful, will visit again with a better plan to be able to hike around the lake.
“𝙐𝙋𝙋𝙀𝙍 𝙆𝘼𝙉𝘼𝙉𝘼𝙎𝙆𝙄𝙎 𝙇𝘼𝙆𝙀” 𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙫𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙮 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙨𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙧𝙖 𝙗𝙚𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙨𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙘 𝙙𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣. 𝙉𝙤𝙩𝙚: 𝘿𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 ⚠️ 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙙𝙞𝙥 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧. 𝙃𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮 𝙍𝙤𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙣 : )
Grotto Mountain
8. Grotto Mountain
4.7
(33)
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Well-known mountain with hikers & climbers, offering a grotto-like cave & trails with scenic views.
Slide 1 of 8
Was a pleasure to solo this mountain twice - once to remember one friend and once to remember another. Would highly recommend a compass, as the intertwining game trails - combined with all of the different man-made trails (sadly) - can make things confusing. Try to stick to the most well-used trails out of courtesy to the environment if you can. Bring plenty of water, as you'll spend a fair amount of time above treeline. Stay safe and enjoy! :-)
The true mountain hiking experience here ...I do not know why it is not popular and people prefer fast food peak like MacDonald...what is special is the different landscape , exposed view throughout the hike , and no scrambling on the peak...it is long very steep hike..do not take cougar passage trail since there us sign of bear there. Take the trailhead and enjoy
By far one of my favorite hikes! I've done this one twice! Very challenging (requires skill, and endurance). I'd only recommend it to experienced hikers. Absolutely breathtaking views though... Remember, even if it's hot at the base, it could be below 0 at the summit. Pack accordingly. Due to proximity to Canmore, cell reception is available as long as you have line of sight to the city (which is virtually everywhere above the tree line).
Whoever built this trail has heard of switchbacks, it would seem, and early attempts at their creation were promising. As the unnamed switchback creator tired from the climb, I can only presume, their work started to get sloppy, the switchbacks resembling random drunken stumbles from side to side more than the designs of an intelligent mind. It was steep, steep as the cost of loving in this broken world. But as the sun broke o’er the horizon as we traversed the final ridge, all felt right with the world once again. Until we had to go back down those ——— switchbacks.
Didn’t expect the continuous steep trail. If you like challenge do this trail. The view at the peaks are worth it. If possible use a hiking sticks and hiking shoes u really need it when going down . Difficulty: very hard
This hike is a leg killer! I started from the hard route all the way up and ACC route going down. If you really wanted a leg workout this is your absolute wish list. At the summit you get spectacular views around Canmore and exshaw. If you're on a roll alot of Big Horn sheep on the ridge. Always pack alot of water and don't underestimate the mountain conditions it will change like your mood.
It was a hard hike for sure. Very steep. It would have been beautiful but smoky on Aug. 14/21.
Beautiful 360 views! A scramble and steep trail with 1400 meter gain!
Quarry Lake Park
9. Quarry Lake Park
4.6
(1234)
Park
Nature & Parks
Relaxed lake with a small, rocky beach, a grassy area & a dog park with panoramic mountain views.
Slide 1 of 8
Had our intimate wedding here and it was nothing short of magical. As soon as we arrived, we were greeted by stunning snow-covered peaks. The ceremony was held outdoors, surrounded by nature’s winter wonderland. Despite the chilly temperatures, the warmth of love and joy made it feel incredibly cozy. It’s a memorable experience that feels like a fairytale!
I recently visited Quarry Lake Park with my family on a hot summer day and we had an absolute blast! The park is truly a gem, offering a beautiful lake, playgrounds, and plenty of green space to run around. The kids loved swimming in the lake and playing in the water, while I appreciated the shaded areas and picnic tables. My only minor complaint is that the parking fee was a bit steep, but it was well worth it for the wonderful time we had. Overall, Quarry Lake Park is a must-visit destination for families looking to beat the heat and create lasting memories. We can't wait to go back!"
A very accessible lake right off the main highway. It’s a beautiful lake and there’s a short loop around it and anyone can really do from elders, kids and anyone in between. It’s a beautiful lake with a great reflection. There are life jackets if anyone wants to take a dip in the lake. There are picnic areas too if anyone wants to enjoy a snack or lunch.Even though online it says that there is a cliff jump. there really isn’t any place to do a cliff jump, but I came when the water was high, so maybe you could?
Quarry Lake Park is located in a natural area just off of Spray Lakes Road. Beautiful area for a picnic, trail walks and enjoying the lake. Beautiful views of Ha Ling Peak, the Little Sister, Mount Lady MacDonald, and the Rundle Range. Quarry Lake is easily accessible by bike from just about anywhere in Canmore. This is a paid parking lot. There are no dogs allowed around the lake, but they are allowed at the adjacent dog park.
Nature’s beauty is in abundance as you can see from pictures that I’ve taken. It is lovely park to take a stroll around the lake, sit on the bench, go hiking, have a picnic, paddle a boat. The place would have been tranquil had it not been for the boom box of my compatriots.
Quarry Lake dog park is definitely the best park in town. Starting with a big field (unfenced) for running and playing off leash. Then there are multiple on leash trails around, and a short trail connecting you to the dog swimming lake (few minutes from the main field). If you are not local it is paid parking. If you are a runner, there are awesome running trails around this park. There are public washrooms and poop bags at the parking lot.
Hit the spot on a hot day! Lots of picnic tables and grass and shade. Deep, refreshing lake (former quarry). Can’t give em 5 stars… the parking is $10 per hour!! Paid $40 to just enjoy the afternoon there (a public park should not be that inaccessible)(no free or street parking anywhere). Just pit toilets, not well cleaned. Could use an outdoor shower to help rinse off, and even a water fountain or filling station for families and dogs for fresh water.
A beautiful lake with several walking trails nearby, and one that circles the lake. Breathtaking views of the mountains in all directions, benches and picnic tables in several locations. The lake is very deep and has slightly high embankments in various spots, so be careful. There are several life buoys on posts around the lake in case of emergency. The walk from the parking lot is only 5-10 mins, parking cost about $20 for 2 hrs with a pay station that uses ePay.
Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre
10. Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre
4.6
(844)
Permanently Closed
Tourist information center
Visitor Centers
Slide 1 of 8
Excellent Visitor Centre and Josh was most helpful in pointing out the microbreweries in the area and his recommendation at Canmore Brewery was excellent. Displays are informative and one just has to request any information needed; plenty of parking space for shuttle picks up for viewing the mountains!
May 2024 Nice rest area. No overnight parking signs. R V dump station says permanently closed. Looks like they still have water, though. We were camping in Waputi campground next door. They don't have a dump station either. Also, it looks like they have large RV spots blocked off for pull thru. You will need to back out.
A great place to stop on the way to Banff National Park. I wish it had slightly longer hours given its ideal location. Clean. Scenic.
Not bad at all, a bit understaff when we visited. Overall knowledgeable and friendly as one would expect in a visitor center. Rest room and free WiFi as well as water for RV and fountain for humans. Lots of brochures and good overall.
Good for information and a break on the way. If you are planning to bike along the Legacy Trail, you can park here. There are few picnic tables for convenience.
There are two buildings, one is only washrooms. With the other being information (staffed only certain hours) and more washrooms. Clean washrooms and lots of parking spaces for both vehicles and campers/trailers. There is a sewer dump station. Lots of picnic tables and green space for kids to play. The picnic tables are in both the sun and the shade. There is room to walk around with dog on leash. Many free information booklets on different areas including Calgary, Sylvan Lake, Edmonton, Banff etc...
Great place to make a stop when heading between Calgary and Radium Hot Springs for a quick stretch and bathroom break. Is easy to get off and back on to the highway. Always clean and well stocked. There are picnic tables to have a quick bite or relax. Can also take a quick walk or get onto the Banff Legacy Trail.
Fantastic free parking to begin your Legacy Trail bike ride! Good luck finding parking in Banff :) The Legacy Trail is quite easy, however, it does get very busy.
The Grizzly Paw Taproom - Brewery Location
11. The Grizzly Paw Taproom - Brewery Location
4.4
(795)
Temporarily Closed
Brewery
Food & Drink
Slide 1 of 8
We had a fantastic time at Grizzly Paw Taproom in Canmore! It’s a perfect spot for families—very kid-friendly with a warm, welcoming vibe. The pizza was delicious with a perfect crust, and the hummus dip was fresh, flavorful, and a big hit at our table. The food came out quickly, and the staff was super friendly and accommodating. The decor is cozy and stylish, with beautiful mountain views that make the whole experience even better. Great food, great service, and very reasonable prices. Highly recommend for families visiting Canmore!
This place is legit. The beer was great, the food was outstanding and the views were exceptional. We came here several times over our weeklong stay and always had excellent service. So sad we had to leave but glad for the experience. We tried to get a table at their other “pub” location and the line was really long to get a table.
The view was stunning! The beers were really good that we came back a second day to grab some of their ready canned beers. Unfortunately, the food fell short. I had the alberta brisket sandwich which was flavourful, but nothing special. Tank310 chicken wings were covered in a sweet sauce. Thought the steak was slightly tough. Waiter was really friendly and nice when attending to us. Giving 4 stars just for the beers.
We were excited to check this place out and the local beers! The staff was friendly when we got here and the place looked really nice! Between reading the menu and having nice staff we thought for sure it would be a knock out. It’s a good place with nice staff, falls short in some areas knocking a star off the review. The food took a while and wasn’t the best of food. My lady has the salmon bowl and the salmon was great however the couscous had no flavor. The tomato soup was phenomenal and so was the Focaccia bread. The Caesar salad was alright and looked better than it was. A couple of the drinks we had were good it was about 50/50. Some beers just weren’t good. Wasn’t horrible just wasn’t 100%. Our server was extremely nice!
This was one of my favorite meals on my trip. My friend and I are staying across the street and we saw the great reviews for this place. It was worth the hype. My friend had wings and I had the salmon bowl. Both were delicious. We each got a couple of drinks. Mine was the free the bees and my friend got the I’ve got a feeling. They were so tasty.
Visited this location twice whilst I was in Canmore, as it was only down the road from where we were staying, both times were great! I sat outside the first time and my server was very knowledgeable about the selection of drinks available and made some fantastic recommendations, she was very attentive, super friendly and chatty! The second time I sat upstairs and tried a selection of different beers with a light bite to eat. Great location with spectacular views of the mountains. The other location in town nearby is also worth visiting too!
Great food, Evolution IPA is delicious! We sat in the back Beer Garden and it was so fun! We played beer pong, listened to live music and had the most chill time!! They have a cute outdoor bar with great service ! 10000% will be back.
Great food, service and views. We didn’t have to wait for a table on the patio upstairs. Great views of the mountain. Hubby had a flight that he enjoyed. We also go the caprese dip and I’m still dreaming about it.
Troll Falls
12. Troll Falls
4.7
(454)
Waterfall
Nature & Parks
Popular all-season waterfall surrounded by lush forest & mountains & known for its hiking trail.
Slide 1 of 8
Troll Falls: A Beautiful Hike (With the Right Footwear in winter) Troll Falls is a sweet little hike- short, scenic, and easy enough for almost anyone. The main trail to the lower falls takes about an hour round trip, winding through a quiet forest and little bridges before opening up to a beautiful waterfall. If you want to keep going, you can head up to the Upper Falls and Marmot Falls for a bit more effort and even better views. If you’re going in winter, just wear ice grips/cleats. Seriously. Otherwise, you’ll spend the entire hike calculating your odds of making it back in one piece (not to be dramatic lol) The trail gets icy and walking without traction turns what should be a relaxing hike into a little bit of a death trap especially if you’re up by Marmot Falls or the Upper Falls.
Great day hike with the family. Went on a warm winter day and it was awesome. If you are going in the winter I would suggest good hiking boots. Paths are steep and slippery at times. We dressed in layers and that saved the day for us. It's kid and pet-friendly but not a lot of room if you have a reactive dog. Not a huge hike but there are steep climbs throughout. We did Upper Troll Falls and then went down to Marmot Falls. Pretty cool when it's frozen and you can walk behind the falls. Wasn't very busy in the morning on the Sunday we went. Kananaskis pass is required, they are constantly checking. Didn't see any trolls but my kids didn't care.
Great experience! It’s about a 30-minute, easy walk to Troll Falls. We stopped for family photos by the birch trees, and the kids had fun finding walking sticks along the way.
Hiked to Troll Falls and then up to Marmot Falls on a Sunday and August. We arrived at the trail head about 9:30 am and there was ample parking and we saw few people on the trail. By the time we left a couple of hours later, the parking lot was full and the trail was getting crowded. Lots of families, especially on the first section. Easy enough for beginners and well marked.
A very easy hike on the way to this waterfall. We easily walked 45 minutes with a 4-year-old child. We even saw people who managed to ride strollers there. There were many different mushrooms around, they smelled good. In that direction, not only these waterfalls, but also Marmot falls and cascading waterfalls. So in one trip you have the opportunity to see several. We liked Marmot the most. We saw people who carried food with them and had a snack right near the waterfalls, but we didn’t risk it and had a snack near the car. Don’t forget about the car pass to Kananaskis, I got a warning (because I thought this place belonged to the national park)...
Beautiful spot with an easy hike and stunning waterfalls. Perfect for a quick nature escape and photos. Well-maintained trail and peaceful surroundings — highly recommend visiting!
easily accessible, not difficult to hike up and easy for all ages. Not the biggest waterfall but still quite tall.
Troll Falls is such a beautiful place to visit in Alberta! The trail to the waterfall is easy and not difficult at all, but very interesting. Along the way, we spotted little troll figures, which made the walk feel magical and fun. The waterfall itself is small, but you can get really close to it, enjoy the refreshing mist, and take great photos. A perfect spot for a family walk or a short nature getaway!
Tourism Canmore Kananaskis
13. Tourism Canmore Kananaskis
4.0
(15)
Permanently Closed
Tourist information center
Outdoor Activities
Slide 1 of 7
Beautiful place a must visit!
Stop there as a place to meet at the head of the Legacy Trail. The personnel were friendly and helpful, and they have very nice facilities.
This was a wonderful idea while it still existed. Pity that Canmore doesn't want to pay for it any more.
(Translated by Google) We had good directions on activities to do in Canmore, Baff, Jasper. Very helpful and understanding staff. (Original) On a eu de bonnes indications sur les activités à faire à Canmore, Baff, Jasper. Personnel très serviable et compréhensif.
(Translated by Google) Small parking spaces, long waiting times (Original) Kleine Parkplatze, lange wartezeiten
Cross Zee Ranch
14. Cross Zee Ranch
4.8
(30)
Ranch
Sights & Landmarks
Slide 1 of 8
We held our fall wedding (70 guests) at Cross Zee Ranch and it was amazing!! Brenda and Jim were incredibly helpful to us throughout the whole booking process, allowing us to come by again prior to our wedding to check things out and answering our many questions. They went above and beyond to help us out during our wedding, helped with parking and locked things up at the end of the night. The weather was good, and we had the canva walls rolled up during cocktail hour. After the sun set, we rolled down the walls and turned on the fire in the middle of the donut. It was such a fun wedding venue and we had many of our guests compliment us on the view and the relaxed feeling of the donut. I HIGHLY recommend having your wedding or event here.
Cross Z was a perfect venue for our wedding! Being locals we knew we had to have our reception up here. Having had a fair share of events up at the ranch it was our turn to host. Jim and Brenda were great, answered all our questions and were easy to work with. Not only a great venue to host the amount of people we needed but the views are unmatched. It was the best day ever and so happy Cross Z was apart of it!
We booked Cross Zee Ranch for our western themed wedding rehearsal dinner (120 guests) and the venue was AMAZING. Brenda and her Husband were incredibly helpful and attentive to our needs. They went above and beyond to make sure our wedding weekend got off to a great start and we can not recommend their venue enough!
While the property is undeniably beautiful, I’m writing to share a concerning incident from June 21, 2025 during a wedding I was hired to DJ at Cross Zee Ranch. The owners’ dog bit me aggressively on the leg, and while the owners (Jim and Brenda) attempted first aid, their response was alarmingly unprepared—relying on alcohol wipes and gauze without proper cleaning. Thankfully, I found a nurse from the catering company who stepped in to disinfect and dress the wound correctly, noting the risk of infection (I was later prescribed antibiotics after spending a half day in urgent care). This dog has demonstrated repeated aggression: the caterers also shared that it jumped on their vehicle earlier in the week during a site visit, scratching it and trapping them inside until Jim intervened. A dog with this temperament poses a serious risk at a family-oriented venue—imagine if this had happened to a child. As a professional DJ, this injury has forced me to cancel gigs and lose significant income as I have a hard time standing let alone walking. That’s besides the fact, my greater concern is the owners’ lack of urgency or protocol for such incidents. The following day I did some googling on Cross Zee Ranch and I discovered a 2012 TripAdvisor review (photo attached) where Jim’s dog was loose on the horse trail and spooked the horses, throwing a rider (luckily unharmed). The owner’s response then? Avoided dealing with it. Sound familiar? Fast forward to 2025: The same owner, his dog bites me during a wedding, charged caterers’ cars days earlier. This isn’t bad luck it’s a pattern of reckless disregard for guest safety. **For future clients**: If you’re already booked at Cross Zee Ranch, DEMAND proof this dog is no longer on-site. A child won’t walk away as easily as I did. Also, confirm safety measures are in place as they had zero protocol and disappeared after the incident occurred failing to file and incident report of the situation. I share this hoping the owners will reconsider housing the dog on-site, or at least implement safety protocols to protect future guests.
Great place to have a family get together or a wedding in the mountains owners are amazing
Cross Zee is a truly fantastic wedding venue. It provides a setting that is both rustic and romantic while providing everything you need for an awesome party. The views from the ranch are amazing and the perfect back drop for your photos. Brenda and Jim are easy to work with, they let us view the venue several times for planning and we appreciated how quick they were to respond to questions over email. Would highly recommend considering this venue if you are planning to get married in Canmore. Thanks Brenda & Jim!!!
Fantastic experience for our group of 5. Simple trail ride through the forest in back of Cross Zee Ranch with Annie. Professional, caring and engaging. Highly recommended!
Booked the night before on short notice due to our busy schedule and the owner accomodated us very well. Great price and friendly service and most of all the ride was safe and comfortable and no concerns with the horses whatsoever - glad we went!
Bow Valley Provincial Park - Kananaskis Country
15. Bow Valley Provincial Park - Kananaskis Country
4.7
(2089)
Park
Nature & Parks
Sprawling natural park offering mountain hikes, canoeing/kayaking & picnic & camping facilities.
Slide 1 of 8
So absolutely gorgeous. Limitless trails and picnic spots make it difficult to determine how to spend your day. The mountains vistas are stunningly beautiful and nearly impossible to capture with photography. Love this place. Need to come back asap.
Nice place but other camp areas are too close to each other. If you are booking for a nivmce view and not too compact area, pick areas that are close to the river.
Kananaskis Country is gorgeous and the views are amazing !!! Abundant wildlife and plenty to enjoy and see from towering mountains to waterfalls and lakes and valleys!!!
A once in a lifetime experience to say the least! Unbelievable views, trails and activities, an amazing and beautiful place to visit. Definitely add it to your bucket list!
Close to the City of Calgary, Town of Canmore. A lot of fun activities to do - Rafting, boating, and hiking. You can find the easy or challenging trails to touch the natural landscape when exploring the trails of Mount Yamnuska, Heart Mountain Trails.
This place is very close to Canmore. Again a beautiful city. Banff is just too hyped up. If you want to enjoy nature in quite, this is the place. Not too many tourists and amazing view. I liked it better than Lake Louise, it is just too crowded. You may encounter mountain goats and bears on your way. This area is still under construction for roads. Be prepared to drive not so smooth road. This road also leads to Grassi lake (again amazing views and quiet untouched nature/ conservative park). Bow valley park is good for paddle boating. Enjoy all the nature to yourself. I will definitely recommend to experience this.
One of the most beautiful places in Alberta. Great for hiking different levels of difficulty, plus the views are simply Breathtaking. Surely a must to visit.
Just wow! Way less crowded than Banff National park and as breathtaking if it's not more! Be ready to have your car dirty, but it's all worth it at the end. Probably one of the prettiest place on this planet. A must go for any mountain enthusiastic!
Avens Gallery
16. Avens Gallery
4.6
(37)
Art gallery
Museums
Slide 1 of 8
Avens Gallery offers outstanding customer service and features an impressive selection of talented artists. If you're in search of the ideal artwork, this is the destination for you! Betti is one of the most incredibly wonderful individuals I've ever met, ensuring seamless transactions and providing exceptional assistance. I couldn't be happier!
Avens Gallery is truly amazing gallery highlighting the work of dozens of talented artists. We purchased a lovely painting from Julia Veenstra that will be the centerpiece of our home. Not being Canadian, we were slightly intimidated with buying art due to shipping and international duties. But Betti and her staff made sure the process was totally easy. Betti and the staff is what separates this Gallery from the others. The level of care, detail, and service is beyond anything that we have ever experienced. They genuinely care about their art and the customer experience. 100% recommended and look forward to purchasing art from them again.
Through the process of having a beautiful Kathy Bradshaw piece custom made for me my dealings with Betti, Phil and Naomi was nothing short of spectacular. They were accommodating, beyond timely in their responses to my many questions and absolutely went above and beyond to ensure I received what I wanted. Their personal attention was so appreciated. Can't recommend them enough! And I am beyond delighted with my Bee!
Beautiful work. I wish to return again when I have the time, but really saw some stunning work. This gallery really opened my eyes to the different interpretations one can have just looking at the art from a variety of angles and distances. I now have a few names I'll have to look into after exploring Avens Gallery.
My husband and I went into the gallery on our first time to Canmore it was the highlight of the day. Perry was so informative and just a pleasure to talk to. Not to mention the incredible art they have. I can't say enough great things about this wonderful gallery.
Amazing Art works cover the surfaces without being overwhelming. I’ve had my questions answered very quickly, and my Art was packed for travel perfectly! My Art was perfectly protected. Fantastic gallery.
Daniel was amazing!! Would definitely come here again. The only thing i would say is that the company business cards are quite bland with a lot of empty space. Would be nice to see a bit more to them, like a popular art piece/picture
We absolutely love this area oh, so we really enjoyed being in the gallery and seeing artistic interpretations of the mountains painted so whimsically, and the absolutely precious bears that they have and I love the trees made of some sort of stone I'm not sure what! There's so many things that we really love, so we are going to look online see what we will actually choose! It is definitely worth a visit :-) the gal attending to the customers was so enthusiastic and sweet! She was helpful in getting names for us of the artists that we like the most so we can see the full range of what's available online.
Best-of categories in Kananaskis Country
Planning a trip to Kananaskis Country?
Save all the best places to visit with WanderlogDownload the travel planning app everyone's been raving about
  • Itinerary + map in one view
  • Live collaboration
  • Auto-import hotels and reservations
  • Optimize your route
  • Offline access on mobile
  • Optimize your route
  • See time and distance between all your places
Learn more
Get the iOS app from the App Store
Get the Android app from Google Play
0 places saved to your trip to Kananaskis Country