August Long Weekend

The August long weekend, the perfect excuse to make your getaway to The Canadian Rockies. If you find yourself lucky enough to be spending it in the stunning Canadian Rockies, specifically around Canmore and Banff, you’re in for a treat. This region truly comes alive in the late summer, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and vibrant mountain town vibes. August is an extremely popular time here in Canmore, it is that busy that some hotels call it ‘black out month’ as it is usually fully booked. If you want to stay with the best property rental business in town, have a look at our properties here.

Events

Canmore Folk Festival

Canmore Folk Festival: It’s the longest running folk music in the whole of Alberta and lasts over the entirety of the long weekend. There will be over 30 performers all playing folk, blues and roots music.

Embrace the Great Outdoors

The main draw of The Rockies is undoubtedly its unparalleled natural beauty. Here are some ideas to get your dose of mountain air.

Hiking Adventures

guide | johnston canyon trail - Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows

Easy: Johnston Canyon with its stunning waterfalls and accessible boardwalks is a classic choice. The Grotto Canyon Trail offers great scenery and also a chance to spot some local wildlife.

Moderate: For rewarding views without a full day commitment, Grassi Lakes Trail with its turquoise waters is stunning. The Bow River Trail to Bow Falls is also a beautiful sight.

Challenging: If you’re up for a more strenuous hike, explore trails like the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail or the Ha Ling Peak Trail for panoramic vistas.

Lake Escapades

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise - Luxury Mountain Resort

Lake Louise: Rent a canoe on the emerald waters or take a walk along the shoreline, it is a bucket list view and feels unreal.

Moraine Lake: While private vehicle access is restricted, shuttle services are available. The Valley of the Ten Peaks reflected in the vibrant blue waters is a sight you won’t forget.

Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka: Enjoy a scenic drive, consider a boat tour, or have a picnic by the shore.

Explore the Towns

While nature takes center stage, the towns of Canmore and Banff offer their own unique charm local shops and patio drinks!

Canmore

Explore the Beautiful Mountain Town of Canmore, Alberta With Indigo Ba

Often considered the quieter neighbor to Banff, Canmore boasts a vibrant local scene with excellent restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. Enjoy a craft beer at one of the local breweries or take a stroll along the scenic Bow River.

Banff

Shop For Banff, Alberta Souvenirs | Banff National Park

A bustling tourist hub, Banff Avenue is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Take a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views. You can soak up the views even more at Banff Upper Hot Springs to unwind and relax.

 

 

2% Special Discount

We are offering a 2% discount for guests that pay via a different method other than a credit card. This can be by Bank Draft, E-Transfer or PayPal. For example, if the whole reservation is $10,000, and the Guest makes a $5000 Payment by Bank Draft, the discount would be $100 (2% of $5000).

 

Canmore in April

The snow is starting to turn into rain now as spring is now in full motion! April in Canmore offers a unique blend of winter’s lingering beauty and the promise of spring’s vibrant rebirth. Now you may be wondering, why April? There’s many great reasons to visit around this time of the year. This includes a great time of the year for spring skiing. With snow still occurring overnight, chances are you’ll get a bluebird powder day here. It is also a quiet time of the year in Canmore and Banff. Locals love it, it’s peaceful, quiet and not overly congested.

Events in April

Muay Thai World Cup:  April 12: Witness elite fighters in exhilarating matchups with an electric atmosphere. For more details visit their website here.

Bear Day: April 12: As the bears begin to wake from their long naps, Alberta Parks educates you on bear safety. You will be fully equipped with bear safety for the upcoming summer. From using bear spray to seeing how bears are collared, this is the ultimate bear aware guide. Information can be found here.

Elk Run + Riot: April 19: A folk rock band will be performing live in the heart of Canmore, get your tickets here to check it out!

Easter Egg Hunt: April 20: Hop into this exciting Easter Egg hunt! Hosted at Mount Norquay, there will be thousands of eggs to discover on this hunt. With only 200 spots available, be sure to register early to secure your place here —these treats won’t stay hidden for long!

Made with Love Festival: April 25+26: The whole of bear street is shut down for this incredible event! Made with love is a tasting event where you’ll get to try local food and drink, from cocktails to scrumptious nibbles, it’ll be a tasty event.

Spring Markets: April 27: For the fashionistas out there, this event is for you. There will be jewelry, sculptures, fashion and paintings available at Banff Ave Brewing from 11am – 6pm.

Recommended Activities / Things to Do

Head to these Spots to Witness Banff's Spectacular Wildlife

Skiing & Snowboarding (Early April): If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, early April might be your last chance to hit the slopes! Enjoy fewer crowds and potentially some fantastic spring skiing conditions.

Wildlife Spotting: April is a great time for wildlife viewing. Elk, deer, and even bears are starting to become more active. Remember to keep a safe distance and respect their space.

Canmore’s Downtown Charm: Explore Canmore’s charming downtown area. Browse local shops, dine at delicious restaurants, and experience the warm hospitality of this mountain town.

April weather in Canmore can be unpredictable. Bring layers of clothing, including waterproof gear and warm layers. With wildlife awakening and becoming more active, it’s important to respect there space. We have also made a bear aware guide for you which can be found here.

Victoria Day (May Long Weekend)

Victoria Day, a long weekend for Canadians, a day honoring Queen Victoria, the unofficial start of Summer, and there is no better place to celebrate than in the Canadian Rockies. Canmore and Banff start bursting with life as the days grow longer, nature fully awakes from its slumber and more and more outdoors activities become available. This year the celebration is held on the 19th of May. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, here’s your guide to making the most of your May long weekend and Victoria Day in Canmore & Banff.

Outdoor Adventures

Diversify Outdoors

With the arrival of summer comes the rebirth of outdoor activities and adventures. Let’s see what this entails.

Skiing (Kind of)

Flock Together to Banff Sunshine for the 94th Annual Slush Cup

With the unofficial start of summer, the ski season comes to an end. So why wouldn’t it go out with a bang? Answer is, it does go out with a bang! It’s none other than the Slush Cup hosted at Sunshine Village on the same day as Victoria Day. For those who don’t know, slush cup is a competition where people try ski or snowboard across a pool of water. It’s a day of fun, laughter and excitement.

Canoeing / Kayaking

Kayak Rentals - Canmore Adventures

The iced over lakes, streams, and rivers start to melt and come alive again which means that kayaking and canoeing become available! Some spots we highly recommend are Lake Minnewanka, Quarry Lake, and of course Bow River.

Golfing

We Are Mountain Golf ~ Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club, Canmore AB

By this time of the year the snow disappears and the green turf reappears. Golfing in Canmore and Banff can be very popular so be sure to start booking your golf sessions soon. The courses in Canmore include: Silvertip Resort, Canmore Golf & Curling Club, and Stewart Creek. There is also a course in Banff: Fairmont Banff Springs. If you’re looking for something a little casual, CanGOLF is a great alternative.

Hikes

Best Day Hikes In Canmore And Kananaskis

Take advantage of the drier trails and explore popular hikes like the Grassi Lakes Trail in Canmore or the Johnston Canyon Lower Falls trail in Banff. Remember to check trail conditions before you go, as some higher elevation trails may still have snow.

Patio Season

10 Great Banff Patios to Check Out This Summer - Avenue Calgary

You’re outside, the suns hitting your face, you’re surrounded by stunning mountain views and to top it off you’ve got an ice cold drink in front of you. Patio season just sounds divine doesn’t it? Plenty of restaurants, pubs, cafes offer outdoor seating so you can enjoy some patio drinks after a day in the mountains.

Exploring Downtown

Canmore: Downtown Sightseeing Smartphone Audio Walking Tour | GetYourGuide

Downtown Canmore and Banff have lots to offer, from the local shops to the charming streets and the vibrant atmosphere, strolling through downtown is lovely. Some of our favourite shops in Canmore are Stonewater, Unlimited and Valhalla. Downtown Banff has a lot more to offer with shops so we definitely recommend checking it out too!

Relax and Rejuvenate

Sauna Benefits

After spending a whole day out in the mountains, sometimes all you need is to relax and rejuvenate. One Wellness center in Canmore offers multiple different services such as saunas, compression therapy, polar plunge and more. Banff Upper Hot Springs is also a great spot to relax as you watch the sunset over the mountains.

Tips

15 Easy Canmore Walking Trails - Travel Banff Canada

Spring weather can be super unpredictable, in the morning it could be snowing and in the evening the suns out with blue skies. Make sure to pack and dress for variable weather. Victoria Day is also a popular time for Canadians to travel so be sure to book accommodation in advance! Have a look at our properties here. With the start of summer, the bears come out of their dens to get their tan on. Be sure to be bear aware, all information about bear safety can be found here. Wildlife is also very active during the summer months so be sure to respect their space and never feed them.

Easter in Canmore & Banff

Spring is in the air and the bunnies of Canmore and Banff have a spring in their hop too as The Rockies are gear up for Easter celebrations. If you’re planning a getaway to The Rockies for this festive holiday, you’re in for a treat! From family friendly activities to delicious dining experiences, there’s something for everyone this Easter.

For the Family Fun Seekers

PHOTOS: Norquay Easter egg hunt draws crowds: Photo Gallery - Rocky Mountain News

It wouldn’t be an Easter Sunday with the family without an Easter egg hunt! Luck for you, some of the ski resorts here host epic Easter egg hunts on the mountain. Loads of chocolate and skiing, what kid wouldn’t love that combo?!

For the Adults

CANGOLF, Canmore - Menu, Prices & Restaurant Reviews - Tripadvisor

If kids on some serious chocolate sugar highs isn’t your scene, there’s plenty going on for the grown ups this Easter.

For Adventure Enthusiasts

Tips for Easy Spring Hiking in Alberta | Canada's Alberta

Easter being towards the end of April this year means that nature will be buzzing this Easter. Spring will be in full motion and the bears also begin to wake from their slumber. If you’re seeking some spring adventures this Easter here is what lies ahead for you.

Tips for your Easter Getaway

5 Reasons Canmore Is The Perfect Spot For Your Next Special Event

Booking in advance!! Easter is a popular time to visit Canmore and Banff, so secure your accommodations and restaurant reservations well in advance. Feel free to check out our properties here. Spring weather can also be very unpredictable, one minute snow is falling and the next the sun is up, so pack for all conditions. Check road conditions if you’re planning to drive, especially if you’re venturing into higher elevations. Most importantly for spring is to respect the wildlife, give them plenty space and never feed them.

Whether you’re looking for family fun, outdoor adventures, or a relaxing getaway, Canmore and Banff offer the perfect backdrop for a memorable Easter celebration. Embrace the beauty of the Rockies, indulge in delicious food, and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

And… Happy Easter from the Rockies Rentals family!

Canine Canmore: Tips for Visiting the Rockies with Your Dog

3 Days of Pet-Friendly Adventures in Banff National Park | Banff & Lake Louise Tourism

Visiting Canmore with your pet? Here are a few insider tips on where to find essentials, dogs parks and most importantly, why it’s important to always have your dog on-leash.

Pet Stores & Grooming

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Mutt Hut Pet EmporiumThis local downtown Canmore pet store has it all! They offer a large selection of high-quality products and food, as well as a pet bakery and spa like grooming services. They also have the best in-house smoked marrow bones.

Pet PlanetPet Planet have good selection of treats, toys, food and other products for your pet. They also have a self-serve grooming room at the back.

Dirty Dog Car & Truck Wash – You won’t find much about it online but here’s a local’s secret for you. There’s a do-it-yourself dog and car wash in Cougar Creek at 126 Bow Meadows Cres.

Why it’s Essential to Leash Your Dog in the Rockies

Canmore caps off-leash dogs at Quarry Lake, increases fines for off-leash dogs - Rocky Mountain News

 

Did you know that all dogs must be on-leash at all times in Canmore, Banff and Kananaskis due to an increased threat of wildlife conflicts? The only exceptions, are the designated off-leash dog park around Canmore and off-leash dog parks in Banff. In the Rockies, wildlife is our top priority, so off-leash dogs are considered a big taboo.

“A two-year remote camera study of human use in wildlife corridors and habitat patches around Canmore between 2015-2017 showed almost 50,000 records of dogs, 58 per cent of which were off leash. In particular, her research showed off-leash dogs had a negative impact on habitat use of black bears, elk and deer. Hikers had a negative impact on habitat use of cougars and white-tailed deer.”  (Source)

Dog Parks

Quarry Park

One of the locals’ favorites which is suitable for only the very best-behaved dogs because it is unfenced. There are large boulders to mark where the edge of the park is, please make sure you’re paying attention to signage as well! Unfortunately, the lake itself is not an off-leash area, but there is a pond in the dog park so your pooch can take a dip as well. If you are visiting in the winter, check the Town of Canmore’s avalanche bombing schedule for the East End of Rundle mountain, the booming sounds have been known to startle dogs that are unfamiliar with them.

Elk Run

Arguably one of the best parks for a game of fetch, as it features a large flat field and panoramic views of the mountain ranges. This park is fenced, and at its busiest in the morning. Sticks are hard to find here as there are few trees, we recommend bringing a ball or a toy of some kind just in case the park is quiet!

Cougar Creek/1A Park

The second biggest park, and also the second-busiest (after Quarry). It’s rare to have this place to yourself! Locals call this park “Helipad” due to its proximity to the Heliport – if your dog is not comfortable with loud noises or crowds, this is not the park for you. Characterized by paths that wind through the trees, and rocky open areas (a remnant of the 2013 floods), this park can make you feel like you’re out on an adventure and not in a fully fenced park in town. If you’re steady on your feet and looking for a crowd, this park will tick all of the boxes – there’s also lots of sticks!

Palliser Park

A fully fenced park located in front of a condo complex. It is a smaller neighborhood park that may seem as though it is just for the residents of those buildings. It is open to all, but parking can be limited on the street.

Hubman Dog Park

A smaller neighborhood park. The park is not immediately visible from the parking lot, and is accessed by following the paved path along the Frisbee Golf course. There is a high chance of coming across Elk here so please keep your pup leashed and under control until you are in the park.

Hiking with Dogs

30 Must Do Hikes To Do With Your Dog In Kananaskis, Alberta | RMD – Rocky Mountain Dog

Most dogs love walks, and hikes are basically just reaaally long walks. While we at Rockies Rentals are dog lovers and dog owners – we are not experts on hiking with dogs. For the top things to keep in mind when out on your next mountain adventure, check out The 10 Commandments of Hiking with Dogs.

There is one thing not noted in that article, however, that we think you should also keep in mind. Dogs need water when hiking, and most mountains lack water as you gain elevation. PLEASE always remember to bring water for you AND your dog.

Visiting with your Dog

Bringing Your Dog to Canada. Pet Friendly Activities in Banff National Park – Alberta, Canada – Dont Stop Retrieving

It’s important to check with your accommodation provider whether the property you are staying in is pet friendly or not. Some places love having your pets, some have no exceptions for pets staying. At Rockies Rentals, we love all types of different furry friends, with most of our properties being pet friendly, however additional fees usually apply. The following properties that we manage are pet friendly:

Rental Deals: Last  Minute  Discounts

We are offering exclusive last minute deals, because who doesn’t love a spontaneous trip? Whether you are looking to enjoy the amazing spring skiing, wanting an escape into the mountains or to visit friends and family, we have given you the perfect excuse with these coupons.

We are providing a 15% discount for all of our properties! See below for more information on the steals that we have available for you.

1 Bedroom Last Minute Rental Deal

For our 1 bedroom properties:

2 Bedroom Last Minute Rental Deal

For our 2 Bedroom properties:

3 Bedroom Last Minute Rental Deal

For our 3 Bedroom properties:

4+ Bedroom Last Minute Rental Deal

For all our properties with 4 or more bedrooms:

Spring In Canmore

After a winter of crisp, snow beauty, the valley begins to awaken, revealing a different kind of magic. It’s a time of transition, a slow dance between the lingering snow and the sunnier days. If you’re planning a visit, or simply looking to appreciate the season, here’s a glimpse into what makes Spring in Canmore so special, including local tips and tricks!

The Great Thaw

Spring in Canmore: A 4-Day Itinerary for Outdoor Adventures — Canmore Hotels - Grande Rockies Resort

The snowline recedes dramatically, revealing the rocky faces of the Three Sisters and Ha Ling Peak. Waterfalls roar down the mountainsides and the river flows . Patches of emerald green begin to peek through the snow, the sky turns more and more blue and the days progressively get longer.

Town Vibes

7 Whimsical Towns in Alberta - WorldAtlas

Canmore itself comes alive in Spring. Patios begin to open, and the town fills with a sense of anticipation for the summer season. Rooftop and patio drinks are on!

Spring Adventures & Activities

Top Hikes for Families in Canmore and Kananaskis | Canmore Kananaskis

Spring in Canmore offers a unique blend of winter and summer activities. You might find yourself snowshoeing in the morning and hiking in the afternoon!

Tips for this Spring

7 Great Spring Activities | Canmore Kananaskis

Whether you are visiting or living here, we hope that you enjoy this Spring in Canmore.

Bear Safety: Bear Aware

Bear Aware: the complete guide to bear safety in the Canadian Rockies.

Massive grizzly bear known as 'The Boss' spotted in Canmore area

The Boss of Banff

Having a bear encounter in the wild is absolutely amazing, they are majestic and it is definitely a rare and special experience. However, although it is an exciting moment, they are still wild animals and bear behavior can sometimes be unpredictable. To ensure both your safety and the well-being of these incredible creatures, understanding and practicing bear safety is paramount. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual camper, or simply living in or visiting bear country, here’s a comprehensive guide to staying “bear aware.”

Understanding Bear Behavior

Mysterious Bear Dance Explained | Scientific American

Just like humans, bears have different personalities and reactions, some are more tolerant than others. Food is their primary motivator and they are driven by their need to find food. This is why proper food storage is crucial. Bears are more likely to react defensively when protecting their cubs, food, or personal space. Surprise encounters are often the most dangerous, as a startled bear may react aggressively.

Before entering Bear Territory

Bear 101 — Andrea Ference

Being prepared when entering bear country is very important. Carrying bear spray that is in a position for immediate access is crucial, do not carry it in a backpack in case of emergency use. Travelling in groups will reduce the likelihood of an encounter. Dusk and dawn are the times when bears are most active, so avoid these times. If you are planning to bring a dog, be sure to keep it on a leash at all times. When camping, ensure that you bring bear proof bags for food storage to avoid a surprise appearance from these big fur balls.

Avoidance is Better than an Encounter

Bear Necessities | Defenders of Wildlife

Avoiding a bear encounter is safer for both yourself and the bear. Keeping distance and making your presence known is very important. Bears are likely to avoid you if they can hear you coming. This is why travelling in groups and making consistent noise whether it is talking or clapping is important. Avoid food sources such as berry patches, carcasses, and so on as bears can be defensive over their food. Keeping an eye out on trail updates and bear reports is also important, this can be found on Biosphere.

What to do in an Encounter

Brown Bear | Species | WWF
In the instance that you are encountered with a bear, these are some steps that should be taken to ensure bear safety:

In Case of Attack

Bear Attacks on the Rise, Raising Safety Concerns - ABC News

Recognizing whether the attack is defensive or predatory is crucial in the response you should take.

Grizzly Bears:

Black Bears:

Know your Bears

Know Your Bears | Alberta.ca

There are two different types of bears in Canmore and Banff. The black bear and the grizzly bear. Believe it or not, the colour of the coat isn’t reliable in identifying bears. Both species have a range of different colored coats. One of the most prominent differences is the shoulder hump on a grizzly. The shoulders are the highest point on a grizzly and a black bear has no shoulder hump. Grizzly’s also have a rounder face with smaller rounder ears whereas a black bear has a straighter face and larger, pointed ears. It is important to distinguish the type of bear as different approaches are used.

Living in Bear Country

Let neighbors know when bears in area. - Be BearWise

Whether you’re visiting or you live here, even at home you need to be bear aware. Never leave garbage lying around outside, always dispose in a bear proof bin, and NEVER leave food out for wildlife. Keep compost bins inside, remove any bird feeders from your yard and think twice before you think of planting any fruit trees as it is likely our 4 legged friends will wonder in your yard looking for a snack. Clean barbecues as the smell of your cook up can attract bears.

 

You are now fully equipped with all the necessary information on bear safety! We also offer complimentary bear spray as a part of our premium upgrade option, feel free to have a look at our terms and conditions as well as our properties for more information.

 

 

Canmore in March

Spring is here! The days are starting to get longer, wildlife is starting to stir and we are excited to share some updates on Canmore in March. Whether you’re coming for Spring skiing, the spring adventures, or just looking for a getaway, we’ve got you covered. 

Side Note: There’s a hidden coupon code in one of the images!

Group Getaways

 

With the skiing being some of the best conditions in March, why wouldn’t you want to book a ski trip? Here are some properties that we have available this month that will make the perfect home base whether you go skiing or want to enjoy the start of spring. We have a selection of different properties, great for all shapes and sizes! *SPRING* on the perfect excuse to make a trip to The Rockies.

Events in March

Recommended Activities / Things to Do

Catch the Last Powder—Spring Skiing in the Rockies - Chateau Lake Louise

First and Foremost, skiing in March is great. With snow still falling and the temperatures a lot more mild, it makes great conditions for the slopes. There’s a high chance you’ll catch a bluebird powder day in March! With the snow everywhere else beginning to melt away, it may be your last chance to do these winter activities:

Canmore in March is absolutely amazing, the snow is still on the mountains but it isn’t bitterly cold, the suns out. The birds start chirping, the sun comes out and nature starts buzzing. You start to feel the energy of the mountains around you this month.