A Foodie’s Guide to Canmore: Must-Try Restaurants & Cafes
Beyond the stunning scenery and exhilarating adventures, lies a collection of restaurants that are great for satisfying any craving. From fine dines to cozy cafes and international flavors, food in Canmore offers a diverse range of dining experiences and cuisines. Food in Canmore offers a large range of restaurants. It can be tricky picking the perfect spot to eat so we have narrowed it down to our favourite restaurants which we highly recommend!
Fine Dining
Sauvage
Chef Tracy, the mastermind behind Sauvage, has crafted a contemporary traditional Canadian restaurant, putting a modern twist on the hunting and gathering way of finding food. The two set menus are carefully and thoughtfully crafted, to the point where it isn’t just food, but art. The dining experience is unbelievable at Sauvage and we couldn’t recommend it more.
Ankor
Ankor is a contemporary Canadian restaurant. The venue immerses you into a refined and cozy atmosphere and aims to individualize guests’ experiences into one they won’t forget. From the curated wine list to the thoroughly thought through menu, Ankor will be a wonderful dining experience.
Rustica Steakhouse
Located at Silvertip Resort, the golf course isn’t just one of the reasons to visit, it’s for the food too. If you’re a steak lover, this is the spot for you. Rustica Steakhouse offers Tomahawks, Ribeye’s, Tenderloins and much more.
Casual Eats
Bridgette Bar
From pizza, pasta, steaks and fish, there isn’t much that Bridgette Bar doesn’t have to offer. Be sure to get there between 2-5 for their happy hour too where all drinks and pizza are half priced!
Where The Buffalo Roam Saloon
This restaurant feels like you are stepping into a Saloon in the wild west, so put your cowboy hat on! With an extensive cocktail list and an experienced bar team paired with a quirky menu, this spot is great for a drink and a bite.
Après Canmore
After a long day of adventuring in the mountains, Après Canmore is a great place to unwind. Their drinks menu is great and their food is simple yet delicious. It is a phenomenal quiet spot to spend time with friends and family after a long day.
Comfort Foods
Ramen Arashi
For those cold Alberta winter days, Ramen Arashi is the perfect solution in warming you up. They have a variety of different ramen available, all with a deep bodied and flavorful soups which leave you warmed and satisfied.
Das Schnitzel Haus
Das Schnitzel Haus is the perfect spot to grab a beer and a warm, filling meal. With many more German bites such as pretzels or sausages, eating here will feel like a big hug.
The Local
The Local is a space that simply makes you feel like you’re at home. From the cozy atmosphere, to the live music and the friendly staff, The Local is a great place to eat. Get there early and stay for the day so you can complete The Local hattrick: breakfast, lunch and dinner
Pubs and Bars
Tank310
With some of the best views of the mountains paired with many selections of craft beer, Tank310 is an incredible spot. It’s not just the beer that you would come here for but Tank310 boasts a great menu too. Tip: the view gets better the more beers you try.
Georgetown Inn
For all the pub lovers out there, this one’s for you. Georgetown Inn transcends you into a classic English style pub. Grab some fish and chips, smash a few pints, and enjoy the cozy and cheerful environment.
CanGolf
It doesn’t get much better than CanGolf. With golf simulators, a great selection of food and drink, stunning views, a sports bar, it’s safe to say CanGolf is the ultimate hang out spot.
Cafes and Bakeries
Electric Wolf
Electric Wolf arguably serves the best coffee in Canmore. It is seriously hard to beat the coffee that they serve there. With a lounge area, sink into a couch with your coffee and you’ll truly feel at home.
Communitea
Some of the freshest and tastiest breakfasts are served at Communitea. With an extensive and impressive breakfast menu, Communitea is a perfect spot to get your day started.
Bro’kin Yolk
If you want to convene for a coffee and a family meal, this café is the place for you. Here you feel like you are at home greeted by warm and friendly personalities. With a selection of classic breakfast dishes, the morning feed here is going to be glorious.
Family-Friendly Properties in Canmore: Family Rentals
Being on vacation in The Canadian Rockies, the thought brings to mind snow capped peaks, gorgeous lakes and adventures galore. At Rockies Rentals, we believe that family vacations should be more than just sightseeing and ticking stuff off the bucket list – it’s about creating lasting bonds and unforgettable experiences. We offer a variety of different properties that are perfect for a family getaway. Here’s some features of all the properties that will create life long memories:
- Board Games: We stock each of our properties with board games and cards!
- Equipped Kitchens: Our properties come with fully equipped kitchens so that you don’t have to sacrifice those delicious homemade meals.
- Spacious Properties: Forget the cramped hotel rooms where you are constantly stepping on each others toes! Our properties come in all shapes and sizes, there’s space for kids to run around, build forts, play hide and seek and to unleash their imaginations!
- TVs: Get your popcorn ready and enjoy a family movie night together. All our properties come with a great TV!
- Location: Lifelong memories are bound to be made here. With dozens of adventures and activities that await in the mountains, these experiences will stay with you for life.
Here are some of our top selections for a family getaway:
Rundle Vista: Family Rental
This is our favourite property for a family getaway. It has everything a family could possibly want. The property comes with an indoor rock-climbing wall, a ping pong table, foosball, 4 amazing bedrooms, a spacious living area, a great kitchen for homemade meals as well as one of the most jaw dropping views of the mountains. What’s there not to love about this property? It is 110% the best property for a family getaway in Canmore.
Mistaya Suite: Family Rental
Mistaya Suite is a cozy, yet spacious property. One of our favourite features is the bedroom with two bunkbeds, perfect for the world’s most epic sleepover. It has a dining table, perfect for those homemade family dinners. The living area is super cozy where some great movie nights can be held. A barbeque on the balcony, perfect for whipping up a mouthwatering feast. Located right in the heart of town, restaurants and shops are just a short walk away!
The Mountain View: Family Rental
With 6 bedrooms and the possibility of sleeping 19 guests, The Mountain View is bound to be an incredible family vacation. We didn’t name this property ‘The Mountain View’ for no reason, it has a large balcony that overlooks 3 sisters and all surrounding mountains. The balcony has a hot tub and a barbeque, an absolutely great combo. The living area is a great space which makes activities such as a games night, a dinner, movie night all possible!
BoardWalk 400: Family Rental
Located close to the town center, Boardwalk 400 has incredible views of the mountain range and has a nice and cozy vibe to it. It is the perfect property to unwind and relax in after a long day of adventures. Similar to Mistaya, there is also a bunk bed room which is great for epic sleepovers.
At Rockies Rentals, we truly care and will ensure an amazing stay.
Canmore in February
February has arrived! Although it’s the shortest month of the year, it is one of the sweetest. Valentine’s Day, winter activities, curling up by the fire place, and hot chocolates are all in this month! Rockies Rentals has decided to share the love this month, discover special events happening this month, enjoy a couple’s getaway, hit the slopes and enjoy other miscellaneous winter activities and adventures!
Couple’s Getaways
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, why wouldn’t you want to book a romantic couple’s getaway in the mountains?! All our properties come with fully equipped kitchens for the chefs in the relationship and TVs for film lovers. Here are some properties that we believe will make a great Valentine’s together:
Recommended Activities / Things To Do
With endless possibilities of potential activities, we have provided a list of some great ideas to inspire you!
- High Tea at The Malcolm: Enjoy a romantic evening together at The Malcolm, their nibbles and teas are to die for.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Pack your gear or rent it at the slopes and enjoy a day out together in Lake Louise, Sunshine Village or Mount Norquay and get silly with some après ski drinks!
- Winter Activities: We have a pre existing post with some great activity suggestions! Includes dog sledding, winter hikes, fat biking and more.
- Happy Hour at The Drake: Every day except Saturday’s, The Drake does happy hour(s) from 2pm to 7pm where some great deals can be found!
February Events
- Snow Sculptures: Get into Banff quick to see various snow sculptures throughout town. It’s only there until the 2nd of February!
- artsPlace: From comedy shows to live music to film screenings, artsPlace has dozens of exciting events on throughout February.
- Lifts of Love: For all the singles wanting to mingle on Valentines, Norquay has speed dating on the chair lifts on the 14th where you may meet that special someone.
- Ladies Only Golf Night: CanGOLF is hosting a ladies only night, an excellent opportunity for galentines. Share a few glasses of wine and have fun on the virtual courses! Hosted on the 20th of February, more info can be found here.
- Naughty Mugs Paint Night: Have some cheeky drinks and see where your imagination takes you. Sign up at Crock a Doodle to combine drinks and art.
Canmore during February is a winter wonderland. Whether you’re seeking romance, adventure, or simply a cozy getaway, Canmore has something for everyone. We look forward to having the pleasure of hosting you in the mountains!
PS: Remember to rug up and stay warm, it’s only going to get colder and stay safe driving in the snowy conditions as well.
Winter Adventures in Canmore: Beyond Skiing & Snowboarding
Canmore, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a wonderland during the winter season. While skiing and snowboarding reign the supreme form of adventure, there’s a whole world of winter activities waiting to be explored beyond the slopes. Here is what else awaits with your winter adventures:
Winter Hiking
Lace up your boots, layer up, and hit the trails for a winter hike. Whether you are a beginner or at an advanced level with hiking, there are hikes that are suited for everyone! Many trails are groomed for winter use, making them easily accessible – just remember to keep an eye on any ice patches!
Popular trails: Johnston Canyon Trail, Grotto Canyon Trail, and the trails around Grassi Lakes.
Fat Biking
Ride effortlessly through the snow on a fat bike, a bike with oversized tires designed for winter terrain. Explore the trails in Canmore Nordic Centre or venture off-road for a more adventurous experience. Rentals are available in town, along with guided tours for those new to fat biking: Rebound Cycle, Trail Sports, and Chateau Mountain Sports.
Dog Sledding
Dash through the snow on a multiple dog open sleigh! Let the dogs take you along for a ride on a wonderful winter adventure. Take in the stunning views while experiencing a paw powered thrill. There are multiple different dog sledding guides in town which include Howling Dog Tours, Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours, and Mad Dogs and Englishmen Sled Dog Expeditions.
Ice Skating
Channel your inner blades of glory and skate across the frozen lakes in town and maybe even try some figure skating moves! There are multiple frozen lakes in and around town that are available to skate on. If you don’t have your own skates, don’t stress! There are rental skates available in town.
Popular lakes: Gap Lake, Spray Lakes, Lake Minnewanka and Lake Louise.
Hot Springs
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Although this doesn’t constitute as a winter activity, it certainly helps with doing more winter activities the next day! There is nothing more relaxing than soaking up the warm water of a hot spring after a day full of adventures. Banff Upper Hot Springs and Miette Hot Springs are both within easy driving distance of Canmore.
Canmore truly comes alive in the winter, offering a variety of exciting activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of dog sledding, the tranquility of a winter hike, or the relaxation of a hot spring soak, Canmore has something for every adventurer. So, ditch the preconceived notions of winter in the Rockies being solely about skiing and snowboarding. Embrace the diverse winter wonderland that is Canmore and discover unforgettable experiences beyond the slopes.
Hey there, Mountain Lovers!
We had an interesting Phone Call this morning. A caller from another country wanted to rent one of our units. No worries — that’s what we do here! All day, every day. When it came time to confirm the rental and make payment, the caller asked a valid question: How do I know you won’t just take my money, and never call me again? After this many years of managing properties, we haven’t been asked that for awhile. So we figured we’d put together a list of Best Practices both for verifying our identity, and for safely confirming rentals online (in general).
Protect Yourself (General Version)
This can be a bit tough when travelling to far off countries with different laws, language, and societal norms. … but let’s try!
- Does the person or company have an AirBNB Host Account? AirBNB holds the money you pay until after you check in, so there is no incentive to advertise Fake Listings on AirBNB. Also, AirBNB requires Government Identification to verify a Traveller Account. The mere presence of an AirBNB Listing Profile can offer some security (even if you decide to rent the property direct with the Owner or Property Manager).
- Does the person or company have many online links available from a variety of advertisers? It’s time-consuming to keep all online advertisements updated. Doing so is often completed by licensing expensive software, or taking the time to update each individual ad. This often means that the more online presence someone has, the less likely they are to be up to no good.
- Look for Online Reviews. Google, VRBO, AirBNB. Sadly, online reviews can be faked. Look for a long history of online reviews, which include both positive and negative reviews. In this industry, it’s difficult to please everyone, so negative reviews can happen. … but a Scammer McScammerson will only pay for positive reviews. Also look for reviews with local details, as Fake Reviews will only give really generalized comments.
- Do a reverse Google Image Search. Creating online rental scams is, sadly, very easy. Just find some really pretty pictures on a Real Estate Listing. Steal the photos. Post a cheap rate. Wait for deposits to roll in from desperate renters. An Image Search allows you to see where else this same photo can be found on a Real Estate Listing.
- Ask the other person to meet via Video. Scammers don’t like video calls. They barely like Phone Calls.
- Fun Fact: If the company doesn’t appear on the Better Business Bureau at all, that is a Good Thing! Companies pay to get a BBB A+ Rating. If a consumer files a complaint about a company, the BBB contacts the company to pay to have the rating removed. Yeah — surprised? So were we. Please enjoy reading the 1 complaint we’ve received since 2009 — from the Guy who felt that
Protect Yourself (Rockies Rentals Version)
The fact that we’ve taken the time to post this blog probably tells you that we are just as committed to online safety just as much as you are. If you still have some doubts, Rockies Rentals can be verified in a number of ways:
- We have a physical office with the regular hustle and bustle of staff coming and going.
- We have a Toll Free Number. They aren’t cheap.
- We have advertisements on AirBNB since 2016 or so, and have a myriad of online reviews. Google “AirBNB Rockies Rentals Canmore”, and voila! It’s all of our many listings.
- We have advertisements on VRBO, and have a myriad of online reviews. Google “VRBO Rockies Rentals Canmore”, and Tada! Reviews dating back to 2006 or so.
- Our company is listed on Google, with another myriad of Online Reviews
- We’ve had a Town of Canmore Business License since 2009. Canmore’s Online Business Directory is online. Confirm that you are communicating via the same Phone Number and Email as listed in the Business Directory.
- We could also supply links to any number of newspaper articles, advertisements.
- Heck – you could even call Canmore’s Mayor and ask if we are a legitimate company. Canmore is a small town, and we’ve been here for a while.
This would be a lot of infrastructure to put in place just to make a quick buck.
Canmore in December
Spending your Christmas holidays in the beautiful town of Canmore? Let us help make planning your trip a breeze.
We’ve got your local events, fun activities and dinner recommendations all in one place!
December Events:
Dec 1st & 2nd – Banff Christmas market @ The Banff Arts Centre
Dec 2nd – Banff Whiskey Experience @ The Banff Arts Centre
Dec 7th – 31st – A Christmas Carol @ Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Dec 1st – 31st – Rotary Festival of Trees @ Malcolm Hotel
Dec 31st – Hollywood Glam New Years Eve @Malcolm Hotel
Activities:
Hit the slopes:
Rentals at each location or can be found at “Gear Up” in Canmore
Indoor Golf simulators and sports bar – Cangolf
Skate at Lake Louise or Fairmont Banff Springs (Rentals not available on location)
Visit the Lake Louise Ice Bar
Take a Sleigh Ride at Lake Louise
Restaurants Serving Christmas meals:
Canmore Weather
Monthly average for December is predicted to be a low of – 20 and a high of -8, make sure to pack your winter jackets and mitts you will definitely need them!
I am happy to state that I am the newest member of the leadership team with the amazing group of people at Rockies Rentals Canmore! I am beyond excited to be a part of this company for the long run and have been given such a good opportunity to grow with this amazing company.
Let me start off by speaking a little bit about myself and professing what my first impressions of Canmore are in the short time I have had the pleasure of living in the beautiful quant town.
My name is Dallas and I grew up in the prairies of Alberta. Shortly after high school I went to College for my Hospitality and Tourism Diploma. I wanted to be able to explore and see as much of the world as possible while getting paid to do so. So naturally, after college, I have had the pleasure of spending most of my adult life traveling. I was fortunate enough to have visited 8 countries, 6 provinces in Canada and 26 states in the USA. All while living in some of the nicest Mountain Resort Towns in Western Canada. Places such as Lake Louise AB, Kimberley BC, Jasper National Park. Yoho National Park, Invermere BC and so many more. My favorite places so far has been living and working in Jasper National Park and Kimberley BC.
I feel that I will be adding Canmore to that list very shortly. As my first impressions of here have been that it is already the friendliest and most accommodating of them all. There is a real sense of community in this town. I wish that I had decided to move here a while ago as I can tell that this already does feel like home for me. I came here expecting to stay for a year or so and move on to another resort town as I often do. However, now I can see myself staying here for much longer than one year and maybe even settling here for good one day. Like so many people here I have met, it feels like it would be a really hard place to leave.
I feel that Canmore is a great blend of being in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, while still being close to big city living with Calgary being just over 100 KM away. You can drive to the Cowtown and back without it disrupting your entire day. But for those who prefer staying in the smaller town, Canmore has everything you could need. From world class skiing, golfing, bike trails and hiking trails to dozens of fantastic restaurants, breweries and pubs. The shopping here is also a unique experience as there are dozens of little quant shops owned by local Canmorites. These shops collectively have almost anything you could possibly be looking for. All while still having some of the most popular Canadian grocery and department stores such as Save on Foods, Canadian Tire and Sobeys for those who prefer to do all their shopping in one place.
Canmore is a rare blend between having a busy yet quiet atmosphere simultaneously. There always seems to be quite a few people out and about. Yet, even during long weekends in peak season, Canmore seems to be at a slower pace with a relaxing and quiet atmosphere all over the town. As someone who has spent a lot of time living in Calgary, I feel that Canmore is a best kept secret from most Calgarians. The mountain views are absolutely breathtaking. It is hard to believe that it is only
only an hour away but I feel that Canmore is often overshadowed by Banff. For me personally I prefer the quieter small town feel of Canmore. For those who do prefer the busier streets of Banff, it is only a 15-minute drive away on the beautiful and scenic highway number 1.
The location to the most popular ski hills in the Canadian Rocky Mountains can not be beat. We are a short drive to Lake Louise, Sunshine, Nakiska, Mount Norquay and soon Fortress Mountain Resort which is now re-opening in December 2023.
I was astounded with just how many Some of the best Hiking Trails in the Rockies are located in the Canmore area with 119 trails ranging from beginner to professional. It would take me years to be able to conquer them all but I am looking forward to trying.
The Quant shops in town are a delightful escape from the big city. Many are owned by local shopkeepers that grew up in Canmore and always seem happy to assist you in your shopping needs.
8th street is the heart of downtown Canmore and is one of my favorite places to go when out on the town. They have dozens of touristy places to shop, eat and drink. The street is always busy but never too packed like other downtown streets in other tourist towns. There is always something to do or see when shopping or getting out on the town when you go to 8th street.
Also, Canmore is a very short drive to 6 amazing golf courses all with excellent scenery. My personal favorite so far is the Kananaskis Golf Course which is less than an hour away down one of the best scenic highways in all of Alberta. In town there is the Silvertip Resort which I haven’t tried yet but it definitely seems like a local favorite.
The weather has been very mild which is nice. Never too warm or never too cold. I am looking forward to see what the winter months has to offer as I love playing winter sports and I can already tell that this surely seems like a winter sports town.
I am a hockey nerd so one of the things I am looking most forward to is watching the Canmore Eagles of the AJHL (Alberta Junior Hockey League). They have been the top Junior hockey team here since 1995. As a big hockey fan, I am looking forward to being able to go to one of their many games this year at the Recreation Centre as the new season is just getting underway this month.
There are so many excellent breweries / pubs in town, my plan is to try them all one day but for now I have only been to very few places. The Canmore Brewing Company has to be my favorite so far. I am looking forward to have more to recommend as time goes on. There are far too many to try in such a short period of time but I am looking forward to the challenge.
I look forward to updating this with a new blog sometime in 2023 when I have had more of an opportunity to have tried more of what this amazing place has to offer. In the meantime, I want to invite anyone who wants an exciting, yet relaxing experience to come visit us in Canmore sometime soon.
Gluten Free Options in the Bow Valley that Get Our Vote
While spending time in the Bow Valley you will want to feel at the top of your game. With all the wonderful outdoor activities on offer, the last thing you want is to be slowed down by something you ate. The high altitude and dry climate may already be taking its toll, so if gluten is going to get in the way of you living your best mountain life, it is time to relax and check out some of our staff-tested Gluten Free recommendations!
Communitea Café, Canmore
Kale Caesar Bowl with Smoked Salmon
Best for Breakfast and Lunch!
Think healthy bowls, filling burritos/wraps and tasty paninis that you can wash down with a smoothie. The Big Breakfast Bowl is more than suitable way to start the day, while the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Quesadilla is tasty choice for Lunch.
403.688-2233 Website
Rocky Mountain Flatbread Company, Canmore & Banff
Best for Pizza
While strictly not a pizza, a flatbread is about 95% of the way there, and boy are they great! The Fig, Bison & Brie Flatbread is a highlight, as well as the excellent Maple Bacon Mac & Cheese (yes, gluten free mac & cheese that isn’t lame!)
(403) 609-5508 Website
Spice Hut, Canmore
Best for Indian! Duh!
Wonderfully, most of their food is Gluten and Lactose Free. Start off with a few Pakoras, then the Tandoori Malayi Chicken with the Eggplant Bharta and you can’t go wrong. For the gluten-eaters in your family, the Coconut Naan is a must try!
403-609-9997 Website
FOUR TWO NINE SIX, Canmore
Best for Fine Dining!
A relative newcomer to the Downtown Canmore dining scene, it is certainly a contender to be the best meal out you can have out in the Valley. The menu does change regularly, but current favourites include Popcorn Tofu for an appetizer, Patatas Bravas and Koji Aged Wagyu Flank for mains and the Yuzu-Strawberry Magnum for dessert. The cocktails are an event at “4296”, so don’t be afraid to splash out because it is worth it!
403-688-4296 Website
The Iron Goat Pub & Grill, Canmore
Best for Selection!
An excellent selection of pub grub and drinks, along a view that is tough to beat. We would go for the Game Burger with a BC Fruits Peach & Pear Cider. But there’s no need take our word for it, just listen to “celiacmomma” on TripAdvisor:
403-609-0222 Website
Nourish Bistro, Banff
Best for Vegetarian/Vegan!
With a cool atmosphere and an awesome variety of flavours, Nourish does not have to be just enjoyed by vegans and vegetarians. The Poutine is Cajun Spiced with a Panang sauce and shredded cheese curds that you won’t forget in a hurry, while the Kimchi Burger is certainly worth a repeat visit. Their Wild Mushroom Ravioli should keep the non-GF’ers happy too!
(403) 760-3933 Website
Rocky Mountain Bagel CO, Canmore
Best for On-the-go
Want to grab something easy on the way to Lake Louise? Maybe load up for lunch on EEOR? A GF Bagel from Rocky Mountain Bagel CO will hit the spot every time! There is a varied selection of fillings to choose from and they take cross contamination very seriously, with separate knifes/toasters etc. An Eggle with Bacon is a great way to start the day, while the Mountaineer (pastrami, pickles, cream cheese ect.) is a personal favourite. Their Cold Brew coffee is excellent too!
403-678-9968 Website
Wild Orchid, Canmore
Best for Sushi!
There are a few places to get sushi in Canmore, but Wild Orchid is most definitely a step up from the rest. A delicious selection of Asian Tapas and Mains are on offer, the Beef Tataki and Pork Tan-Tan Noodle Soup being particular favourites. But the sushi is where it is at! The Crunchy Salmon Roll is a great place to start, and they have a fine selection of Sake to knock back too.
403-675-0755 Website
Fergie’s Bakery and Convenience, Canmore
Best for GF Bread!
If you’re looking for really great gluten free bread, Fergie’s is the best we’ve found in town. It is worth calling ahead to make sure that they still have some in stock though, as it is quite popular.
403-678-9565 Website
Laggan’s Mountain Bakery & Delicatessen, Lake Louise
Best for Chicken Fingers!
And also, finally, shout out to Laggan’s in Lake Louise for their GF chicken fingers, which have saved many a Celiac on their way out of town.
403-522-2017 Website
There are plenty of other restaurants and bakeries around the Bow Valley that have gluten free options, so don’t be afraid to try new places and always let their staff know beforehand if you have any issues with gluten.
Planning an Engagement in Canmore?
Are you planning an engagement in Canmore? A proposal is a special occasion. And the Canadian Rockies are a special place. Do you see where I am going with this? For an outdoor proposal, you will be hard-pressed to find a better backdrop than what Canmore and the surrounding area can provide, but there are still great options for those who wish to keep the romance indoors. From the simple to the sublime, feel free to get inspired by some of our suggestions below.
It is important to remember when planning your proposal that you should both feel comfortable in the environment where the proposal occurs, especially outside.
Photo by Caleb Huizinga
Some Factors to Consider
- Time of day – Sunrise or Sunset? Early Bird or Night Owl?
- Privacy, crowds etc. – Some people don’t mind a crowd, some certainly do!
- Weather – Always have a plan B & C, as the weather rarely plays nice in the mountains.
- Activity – Fitness, enthusiasm, interest all come into play.
- Photography – A selfie on your phone? Or a professional waiting in the wings?
If you are determined to have mountains in the background of your proposal, you really are spoilt for choice. Combine your proposal with a hike or bike trip and there are literally thousands of options. Some of the more popular spots will fill up quickly, so it is almost always best to leave earlier in the day. Weather conditions and the season will play a role too.
Seasonal Engagement Locations Near Canmore
- Spring – The iconic Lake Louise is hard to say no to. It’s a gentle stroll to the end of the lake with incredible surroundings. You can go further though!
- Summer – The wildflowers at Healy Pass or the view and seclusion from Grassi Knob are excellent places to pop the question!
- Fall – The Larch Valley in Lake Louise is stunningly beautiful, and you can read all about about hiking up there.
- Winter – Ha Ling is close to the town of Canmore, and while it’s not an easy hike to the summit you’re rewarded with a breathtaking, spectacular view.
Photo by Caleb Huizinga
Combine Your Engagement with a Special Activity
You could combine your proposal with a unique activity, of which there are many to choose from! You can head out yourself, but there are many great tour companies that offer add-ons for popping the question, so it’s worth looking into a few.
- Canadian Rockies Experience – Offering guided experiences all year round, these guys will make sure whatever you are doing, from snowshoeing and ice walks to Summer Twilight Tours! Rockies Rentals guests get 10% off!
- Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours – The most special Canadian experience anyone can have in Winter! Let the guides and husky heroes at Snowy Owl take the lead for you!
- Alpine Helicopters Inc – Spectacular sightseeing is an ideal set up for popping the question!
- Boundary Ranch – Riding the trails in “K-Country”, it might be a little further to get down to one knee off a horse, but it’ll be worth the trip. They even offer overnight pack trips in summer.
There’s also skiing, climbing, rafting, canoeing, caving, backcountry camping, kayaking, wild ice skating, frisbee golf, bird watching; the options are varied and endless!
Photo by Caleb Huizinga
Romantic Restaurants in Canmore
What about a proposal during dinner out? You don’t have to hide the ring in their dessert, but fine food in a romantic setting is a classic. Here are our 4 top picks:
- four two nine six Possibly the most unique, creative and enjoyable dining experience in town.
- änkôr New kid on the block that’s raising the standard of dining in the Valley.
- Tapas Romantic and delicious sharing plates.
- EDEN at the Rimrock A 5 star experience that lives long in the memory.
Photo by Caleb Huizinga
Private Chefs in Canmore
How romantic would it be to have a local private chef cook a special feast for you and your partner, either at one of the Rockies Rentals properties or at a campfire? We know of a few people!
- Epicureans Specialists in BBQ and Outdoor Campfire experiences. They also do Wine and Scotch tastings, as well as Mixology Classes!
- Currys Curries by Ryan De Alwis Ryan is the proprietor of Currys Curries and is also a private chef specialising in mainly Asian cuisine, but also Mediterranean food.
Places to Find Romantic Picnic Supplies in Canmore
A romantic picnic in one of the many beautiful locations around town can’t go amiss! You can pick up all the necessary cheese, charcuterie, bread etc. at all these fine establishments:
- Rusticana Grocery A local institution for anything and everything.
- Red Gables Deli Fresh, locally sourced meats, breads and cheeses.
- JK Bakery Cafe Great choice of breads and pastries, along with a mighty fine sausage roll.
- Valbella Gourment Foods The local go to for the meat elements of any snack, picnic or meal.
- Market Bistro Delicious food in the Bistro, but the liquor shop next door has an exceptional selection of drinks to take with you.
Photo by Caleb Huizinga
Engagement in Canmore – Photographers
If you want to capture your special moment you could also hire a local professional photographer. To keep your engagement a surprise, you could say that you hired a photographer to follow you around. That way if your partner wishes to look their best for the proposal then they can, but the element of surprise can still be maintained! We highly recommend the following local photographers, both are experienced with proposals:
- Caleb Huizinga Photography A plus with Caleb is that he’s also an experienced outdoor guide, so that can also be a “reason” as to why he’s there. The photos in this blog are all his!
- Wild Alpine Images Kahli and Leo are experts in both elopement photography and great locations. They have multiple packages on offer and your experience is fully customisable.
You can use one or combine a few of these ideas together to make sure the moment is as memorable as possible. Looking for somewhere romantic to stay? Rockies Rentals has the best collection of mountain homes available in Canmore.
Meet the founder of Canadian Rockies Experiences, one of our preferred service vendors!
Why did you start Canadian Rockies Experiences?
Canadian Rockies Experience was founded to provide private, personalized and authentic experiences in the Rockies. We saw a gap in the market for a luxurious, all inclusive private tour guiding company. Our guests are exceptionally well taken care of from the moment they step into our vehicle until we drop them off, we aim to spoil our guests with great food, relaxed and knowledgeable guides and of course the scenery speaks for itself.
Group hiking picture – Photo credit: Travel Alberta – John Price
What’s your background?
I am originally from Ireland, and was a phys. ed. teacher in the Irish Prison System for almost 10 years. I left this role to travel and spend some time living and working in Australia and New Zealand before making it to Canada. Once I had arrived in Canmore, I signed up to do an apprentice guiding course with the Interpretive Guides Association (IGA). This was the perfect combination of being active and also educating people in a relaxed situation. I have definitely found my passion!
What kinds of experiences do you offer?
Canadian Rockies Experience is a Canmore based company offering all inclusive private sightseeing tours, guided hiking, snowshoeing and ice walks in the Winter. We run tours in both the Provincial and National parks. We have multiple tours on our website but specialize in tailor-made tours. These give our guests multiple options and also allows us to customize the exact tour the guest requires. The majority of our tours ensure that guests arrive at busy locations at times when there are smaller crowds. See our Lake Louise Twilight Tour for details. We provide food from local bakeries and suppliers and use top class restaurants. We use SUV size vehicles only, which ensures an intimate experience.
Lake Louise picture – Photo Credit: Travel Alberta
Who are your typical clients?
Generally, our clientele are guests looking for a unique, special experience. Our clients range from honeymooners to planning the perfect proposal or guests who want a hassle free tour with no worries. Many of our guests want to feel safe and have an expert to rely on when they are a little out of their comfort zone, such as hiking or snowshoeing in the mountains. Our guests are both local and international and we have some wonderful repeat guests who keep coming back.
What makes your experiences unique?
Time and time again we get feedback saying “We felt so well looked after” – we aim to take the hassle out of their tour, providing everything they need without our guests needing to make any decisions apart from booking the tour.
Vermillion lakes – part of Banff Sunrise Tour – Photo Credit: Canadian Rockies Experience
What’s your most popular tour?
Banff Sunrise Tour is a popular sightseeing tour, it gives our guests the chance to see the sights of Banff with very few people around. We set up chairs, tables and supply hot beverages, pastries and blankets to give our guests the best experience when watching the sunrise. Sightseeing follows at all Banff’s great locations and a few hidden gems. Breakfast is also included at the historic Banff Springs Hotel.
Our Kananaskis Mini Tour is proving popular this summer, it gives a little taste of Kananaskis country with a short, family friendly hike and sightseeing stops. A delicious charcuterie picnic and dessert are served in the perfect scenic location. This is a great way to explore a lesser known area of the Canadian Rockies.
Moraine Lake – photo credit: Canadian Rockies Experience
Are you offering anything new this summer?
We put together a Mini Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Tour. This is a difficult area to access but as a tour operator we are guaranteed access. You should not leave the Canadian Rockies without seeing both of these iconic lakes. This 4 hour tour stops at both lakes and also includes a drive down the Bow Valley Parkway to Castle Junction. Delicious pastries, snacks, hot and cold drinks are all included.
Ice waterfalls – Part of our Grotto Canyon Evening Ice Walk – Photo Credit: Canadian Rockies Experience
Any exciting plans for next winter?
We are excited to welcome our international guests back, fingers crossed! We are constantly adding and changing our tours. One of our most popular tours last winter was the Grotto Canyon Evening Ice Walk. Guests are collected after dinner and a short drive brings them to the trailhead. Traction aids and headlamps are attached before starting the evening adventure. Snow and ice glisten as headlamps change direction as we make our way towards frozen waterfalls where hot beverages and desserts are served. It truly is a unique experience.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Rockies Rental guests get 10% off! Promo code Rockies10.
Even if you have been to the Canadian Rockies many times, we are sure we can find a unique spot to ignite your wonder.