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: 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
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
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
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
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
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
With the arrival of summer comes the rebirth of outdoor activities and adventures. Let’s see what this entails.
Skiing (Kind of)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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?!
- Mount Norquay: There will be thousands, yes you read that right, thousands of Easter eggs on the slopes. Be sure to secure your spot with a ticket as there is only limited spots available. Tickets and details can be found here.
- Rockies Rentals: We might even leave some eggs lying around the property you book for you to hunt and find!
For the Adults
If kids on some serious chocolate sugar highs isn’t your scene, there’s plenty going on for the grown ups this Easter.
- Adult Easter Egg Hunt: Hosted on Good Friday, Hopkins Harvest hosts a hunt for the adults with prizes of fresh seafood rather than chocolate eggs.
- Easter Party @ Tavern 1883: A Local Sauce DJ party, smash some drinks back and get your boogie on for this festive event.
- Easter Brunch at Juniper Bistro: Enjoy brunch with amazing mountain views which includes a grazing table of delicious bites.
- Easter Brunch at Primrose: Indulge in chef curated delights, from delicious desserts to classic brunch favorites it’ll be a celebration that is remembered.
For Adventure Enthusiasts
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.
- Spring Skiing: Depending on the year, you might still catch some spring skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort or Sunshine Village if the snow is still on the mountains.
- Hikes: Pack your bear spray, lace up the hiking boots and hike some of Canmore and Banff’s best hiking trails. Be sure to pack multiple layers as conditions can be unpredictable.
- Scenic Drives: Take a drive along the Icefields Parkway or the Bow Valley Parkway. The scenery is breathtaking, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities for photo stops. You may even get lucky and spot some wildlife on the drives.
Tips for your Easter Getaway
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
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
Mutt Hut Pet Emporium – This 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 Planet – Pet 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
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
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
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:
- Boardwalk 400 – with pet fee
- Bow 119A – with owner’s permission
- Crawford House – with pet fee
- Crawford Suite – with pet fee
- FalconCrest 112 – with owner’s permission
- Riverstone Getaway – with owner’s permission
- Rundle Vista – with pet fee
- Summit Place 2B – with pet fee
- Summit Place 4B – with pet fee
- Summit Place 5B – with pet fee
- The Mountain View – with pet fee
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:
- Coupon Code: LASTMIN1
- Available from the 5th until the 14th of March
- Max nights: 14
2 Bedroom Last Minute Rental Deal
For our 2 Bedroom properties:
- Coupon Code: LASTMIN2
- Available from the 5th until the 21st of March
- Max nights: 14
3 Bedroom Last Minute Rental Deal
For our 3 Bedroom properties:
- Coupon Code: LASTMIN3
- Available from the 5th until the 28th of March
- Max nights: 14
4+ Bedroom Last Minute Rental Deal
For all our properties with 4 or more bedrooms:
- Coupon Code: LASTMINLOTS
- Available from the 5th until the 5th of April
- Max nights: 14
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
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.
- Witness the Waterfalls: Head to Grotto Canyon or Johnston Canyon to see the waterfalls as the emerge from their icy sleep. The sheer volume of water is breathtaking.
- Embrace the Mud (and the Magic): Spring trails can be muddy, but don’t let that deter you! Waterproof boots are your best friend, and the rewards of witnessing the valley’s rebirth are well worth it.
Town Vibes
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!
- Patio Season Begins: Enjoy a meal or a drink on one of Canmore’s many patios, soaking in the sunshine and the mountain views.
- Explore Local Shops and Galleries: Take a stroll through downtown Canmore and discover the unique shops, art galleries, and cafes that make this town so special.
- Enjoy the slower pace: Spring is a shoulder season, meaning that before the summer rush arrives, you can enjoy a slightly more relaxed pace to your visit.
Spring Adventures & Activities
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!
- Early Season Hiking: Lower elevation trails, like Quarry Lake and the Bow River trails, are often snow-free first. Explore these paths to stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
- Spring Skiing: Often the locals favourite time of the season. The slopes still have snowy nights and their is potential for bluebird powder days and perfect conditions!
- Snowshoeing (While You Still Can!): Higher elevation trails may still hold snow, offering a chance for a final snowshoeing adventure. Check trail conditions before heading out, and be prepared for changing weather.
- Cycling the Legacy Trail: As the snow melts, the Legacy Trail becomes a popular spot for cyclists. Enjoy a scenic ride between Canmore and Banff, soaking in the stunning views.
- Wildlife Watching: Spring is a time of increased wildlife activity. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, deer, and even bears as they emerge from their winter slumber. Remember to give them plenty of space and respect their natural habitat.
Tips for this Spring
- Be Bear Aware! Bears start to come out of their winter slumber in spring so it is important to be bear smart. All information you’ll need about bear safety is found here.
- Be Prepared for Variable Weather: Spring in the mountains can be unpredictable. Pack layers of clothing, including waterproof outerwear, and be prepared for changing conditions.
- Check Trail Conditions: Before heading out on any hike or bike ride, check trail reports for up-to-date information on snow cover and trail conditions.
- Book Accommodations in Advance: While it’s not as busy as summer, Canmore can still be popular during spring, especially on weekends. Booking your accommodation in advance is recommended – we offer discounts for bookings in advance so check out our properties here!
- Respect Wildlife: Give wildlife plenty of space, and never feed them.
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.
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
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
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
What to do in an Encounter

- Stay calm, panicking can often escalate a situation.
- Speak in a calm voice and slowly back away, be sure to check your surroundings for cubs or food and make sure you avoid both.
- NEVER run from a bear as it will trigger their natural instinct to chase you. They will also outrun you as they can run as quick as a horse.
- Raise your arms above your head and make yourself look as big as possible, move to higher ground.
- Do not maintain eye contact as they perceive this as a threat.
- Don’t climb up a tree as bears are excellent climbers.
- Bears will often bluff charge you. If they charge stand your ground and have bear spray ready. Never run from a charge.
- Recognize the signs of an attack. Defensive encounters are the most common attacks and occurs when a bear feels threatened. Behavior includes: snapping its jaws, huffing, woofing, flicking its ears back, swatting the ground and bluff charging.
- In the case of a predatory attack, behavior is very different. Behavior includes: staring, circling around you, remaining quiet, approaching in a silent manner.
In Case of Attack
Recognizing whether the attack is defensive or predatory is crucial in the response you should take.
Grizzly Bears:
- If attack is defensive, use bear spray. In case of contact, play dead. Cover the back of your neck with your hands, lie on your stomach and keep your legs spread to make it hard for the bear to flip you. Defensive attacks are short so once attack is done, remain quiet and don’t move until the bear has left the area. If biting occurs and attack is prolonged, it may have turned predatory.
- If attack is predatory, pick up rocks or sticks to use as weapons and aim for their eyes, face and nose. Fight back as forcefully as you can. If you can, try to escape. Do everything in your power to deter the bear from continuing the attack.
Black Bears:
- Don’t play dead with a black bear. Where possible, escape to a car or building. If not, fight back using any object available and aim for the face, eyes and nose.
Know your Bears
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
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
- Adventure Film Collective (8th of March): Get to Canmore Brewing Company to view a series of mountain adventure films. Pair it with a beer (or a few) for the ultimate viewing experience.
- Saint Patrick’s Day (17th of March): Put something green on and hit the pub. Maybe buy a lottery ticket and hope the luck of the Irish rubs off. Try to split the G with a pint of Guinness too!
- Nordiq Canada Ski Nationals (17th – 23rd of March ): Th 97th Nordiq Canada Ski Nationals. Get down to see sprints, distance races and team events.
- Ice climbing (23rd of March): Try this extreme sport out! Meet at Grassi Lakes between 12pm-3pm. Equipment and gear is supplied so you just need to show up with yourself!
Recommended Activities / Things to Do
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:
- Ice Climbing: Try out climbing up a waterfall this March, it’ll probably be a bit harder to do in summer. There are courses available to show you how it’s done.
- Ice Skating: Here are some lakes that make exceptional wild ice skating – Gap Lake, Spray Lakes, Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise,
- Ice fishing: Gear up for a fishing adventure and see who can pull the most fish out of a lake! There are guides and tours available that help craft amazing experiences.
- Dog Sledding: Get ready for a pup powered ride! These are some local businesses that offer dog sledding: Howling Dog Tours, Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours, and Mad Dogs and Englishmen Sled Dog Expeditions.
- Tubing: If skiing isn’t for you but you want the same thrill, snow tubing is the answer! Norquay offers the longest tube lanes in Alberta!
- Snowshoeing: There are plenty of snowshoe spots in Canmore and Banff, especially up through Kananaskis. Rentals and guides are available in town.
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.