Canmore, Alberta is a small and vibrant town in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, and a year-round destination for travellers from all over the world. Just an hour’s drive west of Calgary and only 22 kilometres (12 miles) east of Banff National Park, this quaint and welcoming community is easy to get to and full of wilderness appeal. With world-class skiing, hiking, biking, kayaking, golf, rock climbing, dining, shopping, wellness facilities, and art and culture, any time of year is a good time to visit Canmore. There is, however, something especially magical about the Canadian Rockies in the Fall.
Throughout September and October, visitors are treated to a brief but colourful backdrop of autumn foliage, making the pristine wilderness (and the photos you take) truly spectacular. The mild Fall weather also means plenty of fresh, crisp mountain air and perfectly comfortable temps for any outdoor activity. And wildlife viewing gets an extra boost in the Fall with the arrival of mating season for many mammals – and the departure of summer crowds on the trails.
Booking outside the main tourist season also means you’ll have easier access to many local attractions and experiences including Kananaskis Country, Banff National Park, the Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise and more. Some of our favourite walking and hiking trails to soak up the Fall colours include Waterfall Trails, Grassi Lakes, Ptarmigan Cirque Trail and Johnston Canyon. Visitors will also love exploring the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park which offers year-round access and activities including beautiful hiking and biking trails in the Fall.
Arts and culture buffs can plan a visit during the Canmore Festival of Art & Creativity in mid-September, and food enthusiasts will be treated to Canmore’s exceptional restaurant scene featuring local ingredients and contemporary menus from globally renowned, award-winning chefs. There are also several beautiful golf courses near Canmore that cater to golfers of all levels, including the Canmore Golf & Curling Club, while the Solara Resort and Spa offers plenty of opportunities for wellness and relaxation.
In other words, whether you are looking for an active, outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat in the mountains, we’re certain you’ll find it in Canmore this Fall!
EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES:
SOLARA RESORT IN CANMORE
Book Solara Resort B213 by Luxus this Fall, our stunning resort suite in Canmore! Nestled in the Rocky Mountains and thoughtfully appointed with a gourmet kitchen, wine fridge, state-of-the-art appliances, two fireplaces, and a private balcony, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of the mild temps and gorgeous Fall colours in this charming, mountain town.
Guests also have access to the resort pool, hot tub and spa, and the suite is walking distance to downtown Canmore and the East Gate of Banff National Park. This unit is also pet-friendly!
CANMORE SNAPSHOT
Location: Canadian Rocky Mountains, Southern Alberta (81 kilometres/50 miles west of Calgary).
Climate: Sunny and relatively mild compared to other Canadian regions. Winter highs of −3.1 °C (26 °F) while Summer and Fall reach average temperatures of 23 °C (7 °F) and 17 °C (3 °F) respectively.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime! Canmore is a year-round playground and choose-your-own-adventure destination.
How to get there: The drive from Calgary’s western city limit takes about one hour via the Trans-Canada HIghway #1. From Calgary International Airport, it’s a 1.5-hour drive.
Where to Stay: Solara Resort B213 by Luxus
Dining: International fusion cuisines and award-winning chefs. Don’t miss Blake or The Sensory for fantastic food with panoramic views. Local specialities also include elk, bison or Alberta-raised beef, the Caesar cocktail, Rocky Mountain Chocolate and handmade fudge.
Transport: Walk, bike, ski, taxis, rental cars, shuttles and free public transportation.
Top Attractions: Banff National Park, Kananaskis Country, Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park, Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, Canmore Caves Tour, and the Art Country Canada Canmore Gallery. The famous movie Legends of the Fall was filmed in Canmore, and also part of the hit TV series The Last of Us. Developed for the 1988 Winter Olympic Nordic events, the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park remains a world-class facility.
Best suited for: Everyone! Couples, families, and groups of friends of all ages, and all activity levels. No matter what you’re looking for on your next vacation, Canmore has it all!
