Outdoor Summer Activities in Banff & Canmore
The Canadian Rockies offers so many options for fun, outdoor summer activities! There’s so much to explore and enjoy in Canmore and Banff. The alpine trails are free of snow, the wildflowers are out, the sun is shining and there’s so much to explore and enjoy. Summertime in the Rocky Mountains offers something for everyone in the family to love. Summer in the Canadian Rockies is generally from June to September with July and August being the warmest months. If you’d like to hike the higher elevation trails it’s best to visit late summer or early fall once the majority of the snowpack has melted. Check out Canmore’s weather and climate, but keep in mind that Canmore is located in what we call ‘Valley Bottom’ and can be much warmer than the mountains that surround us.
Hiking Johnston Canyon on the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park – Photo: Paul Zizka
The Banff Gondola
Take a brief 8-minute ride up the Gondola on Sulphur mountain and you’ll gain some of the best views of the Bow Valley. It is easily accessible from downtown Banff, and if you’d like to skip the ride down there is a well used hiking trail that allows you more time to soak in those views.Golf in Canmore & Banff
With 6 world-class golf courses and 135 of the most beautifully laid out holes, Canmore offers some of the best golf courses in the Canadian Rockies. Find out for yourself why Canmore is such a popular hub for golf enthusiasts from all over the world.- Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course
- Kananaskis Country Golf Course
- Silvertip Golf Course
- Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club
- Canmore Golf and Curling Club
- Brewster’s Golf, Kananaskis Ranch
Canoeing, Kayaking, Rafting and Stand-Up Paddle-boarding
If you’re looking for a river adventure there are many different companies in Canmore and Banff where equipment can be rented and lessons can be taken on basic technique, including Banff Canoe Club, Kananaskis Outfitters, and Bow Valley SUP & Surf. Canmore and Banff are also home to undoubtedly one of the best selections of rafting companies in the Rockies. Choose from different levels of experiences, from a sunset float through town to a fast-paced whitewater adventure.
River Rafting on the Bow River in Banff, Alberta – Photo: Paul Zizka
Rafting Companies in Canmore & Banff
- White Wolf Rafting – (Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tour’s sister company!)
- Canadian Rockies Rafting
- Canmore River Adventures
- Canmore Raft Tours
- Kananaskis Whitewater Rafting
- Chinook Rafting
Adventure Tour Companies Near Canmore
Have you ever dreamt of having the skills required to safely go mountain climbing, scrambling and mountaineering during your stay in the Canadian Rockies? Check out these locally run companies in the area; Yamnuska Mountain Adventures, Ridgeline Guiding Services, Canadian Rockies Mountain Guides, Cloud Nine Guides and OnTop Mountaineering.Mountain Biking in Banff & Canmore
The Banff and Canmore area is a very popular location for people who like to cross country and downhill mountain bike. There are a few rental shops in town: Rebound Cycle, Gear Up and Trail Sports. For a list of trails around Canmore check out Trail Forks.
Mountain Biking at Tunnel Mountain in Banff – Photo: Noel Hendrickson
Hiking Trails Around Canmore
Canmore and Banff are such special mountain towns! If there’s one thing Bow Valley locals love, it’s a fun community event. Take a look at some of the exciting opportunities to gather and experience new things that happen in our mountain towns throughout the year. *Please check event websites for COVID related updates.
Summer
Canmore Folk Festival
Canmore Mountain Market (Thursdays, 10-6 until Oct 7, 2021)
The Canmore Mountain Market has been a tradition in Canmore for over 20 years! Visitors and locals are treated to an excellent selection of locally and regionally produced items including fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, jams, coffee, and baked goods. The Market also offers unique crafts, clothing, jewelry, and other artisanal products.
Canmore Canada Day (July 1 – Postponed for 2021, check the Town of Canmore website for alternate Canada Day celebrations)
Canmore’s Canada Day is one of the most popular events of the year! Festivities traditionally include a parade, live music, a pancake breakfast and fireworks.
Plaid Goat Mountain Bike Festival (July 3-4 2021)
Plaid Goat Mountain Bike Fest is a three-day festival held in the beautiful mountain town of Canmore, AB offering a buffet of for-fun activities. The event is a large-scale demo and expo that has a low entry cost and offers different ways to celebrate riding the Rockies
Calgary Stampede (July)
Much more than a ten-day long celebration with midway rides and bucking broncos, the Calgary Stampede is a gathering place that hosts, educates, and entertains visitors from around the world. Their purpose is to preserve and celebrate western heritage, culture, and community spirit.
Canmore Folk Festival (August – Postponed for 2021)
This 3-day music festival takes place Heritage Day long weekend in August. The festival features 30+ individual acts or performers, a family-friendly site, a free downtown concert on festival Friday evening, a kids’ area jammed with crafts, puppets, music, storytelling and a climbing wall. The venue is Centennial Park in downtown Canmore. Surrounded on all sides by the majestic Rocky Mountains, the backdrop of breathtaking scenery merely enhances the incredible music pouring forth from four stages all weekend long.
Canmore Highland Festival (September 4-5 2021)
Canmore Highland Games celebrates Celtic culture! One of Canmore’s signature summer events, sample over 90 local and international wines and scotches from some of the world’s most celebrated producers including micro-breweries! Craft vendors from across the country offer a wide array of specialized Celtic products. Join in for a full slate of events comprising the Highland Games – pancake breakfast, highland dancing, piping and drumming, heavy sports, tug of war, sheepdogs, clan tents, Celtic vendors, Scotch tasting, traditional food and beverages, food trucks, beer garden, massed bands and more.
Autumn
Banff Pride
Banff Marathon (September 12, 2021)
The Banff Marathon, Half Marathon & 10K will offer runners of all abilities the chance to participate in this truly special event. Imagine yourself on a journey that flows from Banff Central Park, runs past Vermilion Lakes, up the Bow Valley Parkway and loops to finish in beautiful downtown Banff. It is the running adventure of a lifetime. The scenery is breathtaking and you will experience many different interpretive, geographical, wilderness and historical stages on your trek. (Banff Marathon)
Banff Pride (October 3-10 2021)
“Taste the rainbow as you enjoy colourful cocktails and pride-themed desserts. Book in for a drag brunch, and discover lots of other exciting events on offer. We are looking forward to more fun in 2021, all in the name of recognizing and celebrating diversity in our community.” (Banff Lake Louise Tourism)
Banff Film Festival (October 30- November 7 2021)
The Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival takes place each fall in Banff, Alberta. Don’t miss nine epic days filled with stories of remote journeys, ground-breaking expeditions, and cutting-edge adventures told through the eyes of adventurers, authors, photographers, and filmmakers from around the globe.
Winter
Ice Magic in Lake Louise
Banff Lake Louise Snow Days (January 19-30, 2022)
Unleash your inner child to relish the pure joy of winter at the Banff and Lake Louise SnowDays celebration. In January, the streets of downtown Banff are transformed into larger-than-life winter galleries by our SnowDays Snow Sculptures.
Ice Magic in Lake Louise (January 19-30, 2022)
Ice Magic is a world-class ice carving event. Watch talented ice artists from around the world create ice carvings for a competition, or marvel at the finished sculptures over nine days.
Canmore Winter Carnival (February)
Canmore winters are fun and full of magic. Every February we come together as a community to celebrate the best parts of our unique winter lifestyle. A weekend of indoor and outdoor events and experiences. Every year is a little different! Activities have included: ice carving competitions, kids’ ice carving, beaver tails eating competitions, the always entertaining pooch parade, log sawing and the amazing Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours Kid N’ Mutt races.
Masters World Cup of Cross-Country Skiing (March 3-11, 2022)
Hosted by the world-class Canmore Nordic Centre, masters cross-country skiers will gather from around the world to participate in seven days of racing and cultural experiences.
Spring
location: The Canmore Nordic Center, Alberta, Canada
Canmore Uncorked Festival (May)
Canmore Uncorked is an annual 12-day food and drink festival that celebrates the remarkable dining experiences in Canmore, Alberta. The Festival consists of daily set-price menus and other culinary experiences at over 40 locations, as well as a series of signature events including the Long Table Dinner.
TransRockies (June 25-26, 2022)
Rundle’s Revenge is a two-day fun-fest that includes mountain biking and trail running. No, it’s not a duathlon. Rundle’s Revenge is so much more than that! Where duathlons combine the two events into one day, Rundle’s Revenge gives you a full day for each event.
Q: What first drew you to Canmore — was it love at first mountain view, or did the charm sneak up on you?
A:
The charm definitely snuck up on me — but it happened fast. We were very familiar with visiting Banff, but the first day we drove into Canmore, we could immediately feel that it was different. The vibe was warmer and more personal. People said hello on the street, held doors open, and there was this welcoming energy you could actually feel. It was hard to describe — but we loved it right away.
Q: How long have you owned your Mountain Lifestyle Investment Property, and how has your relationship with the home evolved over time?
A:
We purchased Panorama Plaza in 2015. At first, what we appreciated most was the value — it’s a three-bedroom, which offered great space at the time. Over the years, we renovated and invested more into it, and it evolved into something more meaningful than just a property. I still appreciate the value it offers, but now it also feels like a place that’s grown with us.
Q: When you were house hunting, what made you stop and think, “This one’s special — this is the one”?
A:
The three bedrooms were a big draw, but I also liked what it didn’t have. There were no resort-style amenities like a hot tub, and I loved that simplicity. It felt quieter and less “resort,” which suited us perfectly. We were out enjoying the mountains anyway, so we didn’t need the extras — just a clean, comfortable space in a great location. From an owner’s perspective, that simplicity also makes things easier to maintain.
Q: What’s one of your favorite memories at your Mountain Lifestyle Investment Property — the kind that makes you smile every time you think about it?
A:
Honestly, one of my favorite memories comes from renovating it. When we bought the unit, the master bedroom had a massive corner soaking tub — surrounded by mirrors — right in the bedroom. It stayed for a while before we renovated, but eventually we removed what I still refer to as “the creepiest tub ever.” It had to be cut into pieces to get it out, and I still have the photos. We replaced it with a sitting area and TV, which I love — but those before photos still make me laugh every time.
Q: Describe your perfect Canmore day. Where are you headed, and what’s on the agenda (or off it)?
A:
My perfect Canmore day is really about people. I’d meet a close friend for brunch and then spend the entire day together — strolling down Main Street, popping into galleries, and soaking up the town’s energy. I love checking out events at the Canmore Opera House or artsPLACE — I always look at their calendar when we’re in town. It’s such a welcoming community hub, and even as a stranger, you can walk in and feel at home.
Q: Are you a breakfast-on-the-patio, lunch-on-the-trail, or a cold-drink-on-a-warm-patio kind of person — and where’s your go-to local spot for that meal?
A:
If I can do both in one day, that’s ideal — brunch first, then a cold drink on a warm patio by mid-afternoon. I never get tired of those mountain views. I love the patio at The Wood, and the Rose & Crown is another favorite — it’s a bit quieter, surrounded by trees, and has gorgeous views. In the summer, when Main Street becomes pedestrian-only, I also love grabbing a seat just to people-watch.
Q: If someone told you they were thinking of buying in Canmore, what’s the one piece of advice you’d want them to hear before they start the search?
A:
Call a property manager first — especially if it’s an investment property. A good local property manager knows the buildings, the history, the quirks, and the things you’ll never see in a listing. They can help narrow down what really fits your goals. And my other advice? Do it yesterday. Every moment you wait is time you’re not creating memories here.
Q: Since Rockies Rentals handles the hard stuff — what do you now have more time to do, and how do you spend that time?
A:
I travel — a lot. I’m often not even sure what day of the week it is because I’m on the move. I gravitate toward warm destinations, especially in winter. Some highlights have been St. Lucia (the food is incredible) and Curaçao — the water there is unreal. Having the freedom to travel without worrying about the property is huge.
Q: What surprised you most about owning in Canmore — something you didn’t expect but now love (or laugh about)?
A:
How genuinely kind the people are. More than average — just really lovely humans. Another surprise was how many people live here without hiking or skiing every day. There’s something special about simply being in the mountains. You don’t have to be climbing them to feel their impact.
Q: If your Mountain Lifestyle Investment Property could talk, what do you think it would say about the guests who’ve stayed there?
A:
I’d like to think it would say it’s been loved by families — and that because of its value and location, it’s helped make the mountains accessible to more people. I hope it’s been the backdrop for a lot of meaningful family memories.
Q: What’s your favorite local “hidden gem” — a place or activity most visitors don’t discover on their first trip?
A:
I love doing Clue Solvers scavenger hunts around town. I’m not a natural hiker, but scavenger hunts get me outside, learning, and exploring. For places, Sheepdog Brewing is a favorite — very local, great staff, and board games upstairs. I also love Wildlife Distillery. I’m all about gathering with friends over food and drinks.
Q: Complete the sentence: “The best part about owning in the Rockies is…”
A:
Seeing the sparkle in people’s eyes when you tell them you spend time here. It’s not jealousy — it’s that sense of connection to a place that means something special to so many people.
Q: After working with Rockies Rentals since 2015, you know how much the Dream Team loves a good funny or heartfelt story. Give us your best!
A:
Years ago, during a heavy rainstorm, water pooled on the balcony of the unit above us and started leaking into our unit late at night. Rockies Rentals reacted immediately — they showed up, moved us into another property, handled everything seamlessly, and took care of all the repairs. As both an owner and a guest at that moment, it was incredibly reassuring. You’d never know it even happened now — and that level of care says everything.
Q: Would you be willing to share a few of your favorite photos — the ones that capture the feeling of your Canmore experience, not just the view?
A:
Absolutely — including a very memorable before-and-after of that infamous corner tub.
Thanksgiving in Canmore
The snow slowly starts to return, the leaves start turn orange and fall, it’s a cozy and peaceful time of the year in Canmore. Thanksgiving in Canmore is the perfect time and place to gather with friends and family to reflect on the blessings of the past year. The infamous turkey is out, a massive feast is held and everyone reflects on what they’re grateful for. We know what we’re thankful for, it’s all of you guys! Whether you’re a guest with us, a past guest, a future guest or simply a reader of this post, we appreciate you! If you’re celebrating for Canadian Thanksgiving (13th of October) or US Thanksgiving (27th of November) this blog is a guide for your holiday here.
Your Thanksgiving Feast
Restaurant Celebrations: Numerous restaurants in Canmore and Banff offer special Thanksgiving menus. From cozy mountain lodges to more upscale dining experiences, you’ll find options to suit every taste. Reservations are absolutely essential as this is a popular time for dining out.
Consider a Mountain Brunch: For a more relaxed approach, consider a Thanksgiving brunch at one of the many excellent cafes or restaurants in town.
Self-Catering: All of our properties come equipped with kitchens, perfect for preparing your own traditional Thanksgiving feast. Local grocery stores offer all the ingredients you’ll need, and the stunning views from your window will provide the perfect backdrop.
Our Top Properties for Thanksgiving
It isn’t really a thanksgiving without a homemade family feast. Whether you’re cooking a turkey, making mac n cheese or maybe some potato salad, all that matters is that it’s cooked from home. This is why our properties are stocked with fully equipped kitchens. From utensils, seasoning and cooking oil, your thanksgiving dinner has a great kitchen for your stay here. Below are some of our best properties for thanksgiving with family and friends:
Recommended Activities
October is a shoulder season, summer is well and truly gone and winter hasn’t quite struck yet. This doesn’t mean that there isn’t a lot to see and do during this time.
Hikes: It is one of the most beautiful times for hikes, the valleys have an array of different colors. From green to yellow and orange, it’s the most colorful time for hikes in Banff and Canmore. We highly recommend checking out the Larch Valley near Lake Louise.
Drives: Cruise along the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) or the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) for breathtaking vistas. There are multiple different viewpoints on these drives so that you can have a quick pit stop to take in the stunning views.
Biking: Bike Legacy Trail is the trail that connects Banff and Canmore. The views on this trail are gorgeous, from mountain views to Bow River, there’s lots to see on this trail.
Skiing/Snowboarding: The slopes are back open! At least for our American visitors for Thanksgiving. The season begins early November so be sure to check out one of the big three ski resorts for your time here!
Events
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
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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.
Let’s be real — credit card fees are like the villain in every movie: sneaky, unnecessary, and somehow always lurking in the shadows. So, in the spirit of happy endings, we’re offering a 2% discount to any guest who pays by any other method instead of credit card. This helps us keep costs down — and we’re passing those savings straight to you.
As Julia Roberts once said to her Bank: “You work on commission, right? Big mistake. Huge.” That’s how we feel about credit card processors taking their cut (3.5-5%). So skip the fees, keep your dollars local, and let’s both feel good about doing business the slightly old-school way.
How it works:
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Prior to your Next Payment Due Date, contact our office to redeem the “2% Discount Special Offer” . This lets us know you like keeping more money in *your* pocket and the pocket of small businesses — and less in the pocket of Big Bank.
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Use a non-credit-card payment method by the Payment Due Date.
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When we apply the non-credit card payment to your account, we will add a discount equal to 2% of the Payment Amount.
- Need help with the math? Type the payment amount into a calculator. Multiply by point-nine-eight (.98). Voila! So, if you payment is CAD$545.80 multiple by .98 Payment = CAD$534.88. You save CAD$10.92 … enough to buy a Beaver Tail.
Here’s the friendly not-so-fine print:
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The 2% discount applies only when your payment is made via e-transfer, direct deposit, paypal, wire transfer, or maybe some other payments methods that we don’t even know about.
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Credit card payments don’t qualify (we still love you, Visa and MasterCard… but you high fees need to go extinct).
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Discounts cannot be applied if the payment is made by credit card, and you realize you meant to redeem this offer — so if you want it, let’s plan ahead.
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Yes, it’s combinable with other offers. You plus this discount is already a dream team.
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All payments are in Canadian dollars (CAD), and any transfer fees are your responsibility.
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Offer may change or disappear faster than Kevin Costner in Field of Dreams.
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.
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