Canmore Hiking Trails You Can’t Miss This Fall
With Alberta’s short-lived autumn seasons, it’s hard not to make the most of it when you’re in the Canadian Rockies. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, we have the best Canmore hiking trails to share with you this season. Are you ready to pick your hiking trails? Canmore offers a wide range of options that vary in length and difficulty level. There are also many beautiful trails that you can access from the Town of Canmore and in the nearby areas.
Our team at Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre has picked some of the best Canmore hiking experiences for you, from beginner level to advanced.
The Best Hiking Trails in Canmore (Beginner to Advanced)
Quarry Lake (1.3km - Easy)
If you fancy a simple walk in nature without being too far out of Canmore, Quarry Lake is your best choice. Not every trail has to be a challenge when all you need is a slow-paced family walk and a picnic. This loop is a popular trail that even locals take regularly for running or bird watching. A typical twenty-minute walk can easily turn into one hour if you stop and observe the many autumn colours that Canmore has to offer. Quarry Lake Park has various other trails nearby, including some easy mountain biking trails, such as Highline and Cloudline.
Note: Unfortunately, visitors with pets cannot take their fur friends to the lake. However, an off-leash dog park is adjacent to the Quarry Lake car park, where they can roam free!
Bow River Loop (2.1km - Easy)
Similarly to the former, the Bow River Loop is another highly favoured Canmore hike that provides stunning views of the Bow River and the surrounding mountains. About a third of the way, you’ll enter a forested area where you can explore some of the changing colours of autumn. Most of the hiking trail is well-paved and flat, making it a nice and easy walk for all age groups and experience levels. Leashed pets are also welcome to join their owners on this adventurous Canmore hiking trail.
Note: This hiking trail in Canmore is separate from the Bow River Trail, which is also considered easy but has a length of 6km.
Grassi Lakes Trail (4km - Moderate)
Want to turn it up a notch? Then, choose Grassi Lakes as your next Canmore hiking trail! This moderate high comes with two options. Families with children may choose the easier route, which is the Upper Grassi Lake, leading through a dense forested area. If you want more challenge, take the trailhead on the left: Grassi Lakes Interpretive. Despite some of the steep sections and climbs, the view of the waterfall will be one of the most rewarding experiences when hiking in Canmore, Alberta. Either route will provide stunning views of the emerald-coloured lake and autumnal splendour.
Note: We recommend gearing up accordingly, such as wearing sturdy and comfortable hiking boots and carrying bear spray at all times.
Grotto Canyon Trail (7.1km - Moderate)
Grotto Canyon is a moderate hike that is dog and family-friendly. It has some steep climbs and mild bouldering. The path is rocky almost throughout the hike, so we advise you to wear good-quality hiking boots. As you follow the valley northwest of the trail, you will encounter some caves. During the whole hike, you will have incredible views of mountain peaks and small waterfalls from the canyon.
Mount Lady Macdonald (10.3km - Moderate to Hard)
This is one of the longer trailheads. It starts off moderately but can become more challenging as the elevation picks up. Scenic mountain views and breathtaking fall colours are visible throughout the first part of the hike. The moderate hiking trail ends as you reach the wooden helipad, where most hikers like to take their lunch breaks and enjoy the scenery. However, if you have the urge to conquer the summit, the hard part begins here. The summit is at 2,606 metres and involves scrambling along the ridgelines to reach it. The route is challenging but short. It may also be windy at the peak, but we guarantee this Canmore hiking trail will make you feel accomplished!
Pro Tip! Poles are highly recommended for this hiking trail in Canmore.
Ha Ling Peak (7.4km - Hard)
If you’re an avid hiker, you don’t want to miss out on Ha Ling Peak, one of the most famous and rewarding Canmore hiking trails you will never forget.
It’s physically challenging, involving steep climbs, scrambling, and some dirt paths. Due to this being an uphill hike, it may seem like there is an elevation gain, but unlike most trails in the area, Ha Ling is only at 755 metres. Brace yourself for extraordinary views at the peak overlooking the Town of Canmore, Spray Lakes, and neighbouring mountains!
Important: Proper hiking gear is recommended for this adventure. The descent has been reported to be challenging due to loose rocks.
*Extra! Larch Hikes in Canmore & Kananaskis
Want to take in some extra special scenery and find yourself in Canmore in September or October? Be sure to check out the larch hikes in Canmore and, if you have access to transportation, in Kananaskis. Expect breathtaking views of golden larch trees, the only conifer species to shed its needles. Whether you choose Chester Lake, Pocaterra Ridge, Burstall Pass, or Patamigan Cirque, you’ll enjoy a spectrum of autumn colours set amid the Rockies.
Enjoy Hiking in Canmore, Alberta, Introduced by Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre
Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre is located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies and is proud to be making a difference in Canmore’s community. We warmly welcome visitors from all over the world who seek to experience the best our town has to offer, including some of the most popular Canmore hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. Visit us today at 511 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore, AB T1W 1N7 or call us at (403) 678-3625.
Hiking in Canmore, Alberta FAQs
Do I need a pass when entering Kanaskis Country?
- Yes. You need to purchase a Conservation Pass when entering Kananaskis Country. Single-day, multi-day or annual passes are available online or at the visitor centre.
Do I need to bring bear spray?
- Yes. Perhaps you’re familiar with the sign that says you’re “Entering Bear Country” or “Bear Aware.” While the chance of an encounter with a bear may be low (depending on the time of the year or time of the day), you can never be sure. Carrying bear spray is a wildlife safety that protects you and the wildlife in question. We recommend wearing a bear spray holster or keeping the spray can in the side pocket of your backpack to ensure it’s ready to be used in an emergency.
Do I have to worry about higher altitudes?
- Some people indeed get altitude sickness when hiking up to a high point. If you’ve had altitude sickness before, we recommend practising with caution and choosing your Canmore hiking experience wisely. We trust locals and visitors to know their physical abilities and fitness levels when venturing into advanced hiking trails in Canmore and the nearby areas.