Categories > Guides and Tips
How to Get from Calgary to Canmore Without Getting Lost (or Bored)
- What to Expect in Calgary
- What to Expect in Canmore
- How to Get from Calgary to Canmore
- Step 1: Get ready to hit the road
- Step 2: Head west on Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway)
- Step 3: Check out great stops and science viewpoints along the way
- Canada Olympic Park
- Ghost Lake
- Canmore Viewpoint Pull-Off
- Step 4: Arriving in Canmore
- What are other modes of transportation from Calgary to Canmore?
- By Bus
- By Coach Service/Private Shuttle
- By Car Rental
- Where to Stay in Canmore
- The Canmore Hotel Hostel
- Chateau Canmore
- The Malcolm Hotel
- What to Do in Canmore
- Visit the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park
- Kayak and paddleboard at Quarry Lake
- Explore the Canmore Mountain Market
- FAQs on Traveling from Calgary to Canmore
I’m a simple guy, so no judgment if I blew my paycheck on a weekend trip to Canmore with a few buddies. I blame the algorithm—five back-to-back posts about the Three Sisters, Ha Ling Peak, and mountain views that basically felt like a cosmic sign. Long story short, that trip healed me.
If you’ve been hit with the same urge but don’t know where to start or don’t want to miss any good stops, then here’s a full guide on how to get from Calgary to Canmore without overthinking it.
What to Expect in Calgary
Media from cityofcalgary
Calgary is like an open door towards the mountains. It offers a good balance between relaxed neighborhoods like Inglewood and Kensington, with lots of local favourites and a reasonably healthy range of restaurants.
And while you’re in the city, you can take a walk along the Bow River, check out a few shops, and enjoy the mix of city and nature. It’s easy to get around, and once you’re ready to go, the drive to Canmore is just over an hour west.
What to Expect in Canmore
Media from canmorekananaskis
Canmore is a small, easygoing town that’s simple to settle into once you arrive. You’ve got mountains all around, and most things, like trails, coffee spots, and grocery stores, are just a few minutes away.
It’s also a good place if you’re into hiking, biking, or skiing, but you don’t have to be incredibly outdoorsy to enjoy it. You can take your time to find a trail or activity that suits your preferences and level of experience, especially since the pacing here is pretty chill.
Speaking of chill, the summers here are mild, usually between 15°C and 25°C, with lots of sunny days. While temperatures often dip below -10°C during winter, especially in January and February.
How to Get from Calgary to Canmore
Media from canmorekananaskis
To get from Calgary to Canmore, just head west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) for about 104 km. It’s a straightforward drive and takes around an hour, maybe a bit more if traffic’s heavy or the weather’s not great.
As you slowly drive away from the city, the landscape opens up fast, and before long, you’re cruising with mountain views in the distance. Note that the highway is well-maintained year-round, but winter driving can be slower.
That said, if you’re ready to get this show on the road, here’s everything you need to know to get from Calgary to Canmore—steps, stops, and more!
Step 1: Get ready to hit the road
Media from emilylezama_
Before heading out, it’s a good idea to do a quick prep and tick off your checklist, so the drive is smooth and stress-free.
- Check your vehicle – It’s crucial for you to see if your car is in good shape and road-safe. Check the fuel, tires, windshield fluid, brakes, and lights. If you’re renting, most rentals at the Calgary Airport or downtown have cars ready for highway driving.
- Download offline maps – Though the cell service is generally fine, it’s still smart to download Google Maps or your navigation app offline, especially once you’re approaching the Canmore area.
- Be ready for Alberta weather – With how things are going, the weather can shift fast.
In summer, essentials like water (add more to what you originally planned), sunglasses, and sunscreen are a good start. For winter, gloves, a coat, and an ice scraper for your car can be a lifesaver.
Step 2: Head west on Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway)
Media from akshay.nambiar87
Once you’re all set, head toward Highway 1 West (Trans-Canada Highway). If you’re from central Calgary, the easiest way is via 16 Ave NW.
As you drive out, expect traffic lights and moderate traffic through the city, especially during the morning or late afternoon rush hour. But as you enter the highway, it becomes a fast-moving, multi-lane route.
Keep in mind that the highway speed is 110 km/h outside city limits, so watch for changes and drive cautiously. Also, there are several gas stations and rest stops in Calgary, but quite limited when you’re on your way to Canmore.
Step 3: Check out great stops and science viewpoints along the way
Media from barbsandrego
If you’ve got time to spare and don’t want to miss out on some cool photo ops, there are a few places along the way to stop and enjoy.
Canada Olympic Park
Media from maggieo17
Directions
Distance to Canmore: 89 km
Time to Spend: 20–30 minutes
Canada Olympic Park is a quick history stop, given that this is a former 1988 Winter Olympics venue. If you’re planning to spend around 30 minutes, pop into the Hall of Fame to explore hands-on exhibits that celebrate Canadian sports legends.
And depending on the season, you might see people skiing, snowboarding, or mountain biking—it’s pretty cool while you stretch your legs. You can also head to the upper parking lot for a quick photo op.
Not to mention, you can go and do your business here since there are clean restrooms in the area. And if you forget to bring any food with you, there’s a small cafe here to grab coffee or a snack.
Ghost Lake
Media from manjinder_brar_rj_13_7500
Directions
Distance to Canmore: 44 km
Time to Spend: 30 minutes
As your surroundings open up and the mountains come into full view, you can stop over at Ghost Lake. It offers striking views of the Rocky Mountain foothills, meeting bright blue waters.
We like that there’s easy shoreline access near the Ghost Lake Dam area, where you can walk along the edge, snap some photos, or dip your toes in. While you don’t have time to get on the water, you might spot kite surfers and sailboats catching wind across the lake.
Just note that there aren’t full amenities here, so plan it as a nature stop rather than a pit stop. But hey, it’s a nice spot for a brief rest or a snack break with a view.
Canmore Viewpoint Pull-Off
Media from canmorekananaskis
Directions
Distance to Canmore: 2-3 km
Time to Spend: 5-10 minutes
Hopping off at Canmore Viewpoint Pull-Off for a couple of minutes might be one of the best ways to get a nice welcome of what to expect in Canmore. The view includes the famous Three Sisters peaks and sweeping alpine backdrops—your photos would probably come out like postcards.
Since it’s right off the highway, there’s a wide shoulder for parking. You don’t need to hike or walk to get a nice view of the landscape and mountains.
That said, if you time it right, you can reach here just before sunset for a softer light and fewer cars. So, leaving Calgary around 2 hours before sunset might be the sweet spot (if you plan to make stops along the way).
Step 4: Arriving in Canmore
After hitting all the stops, you’ll see the highway signs for the town as you approach. That said, keep an eye out for Exits 89, 91, and 93, which are the main turn-offs into different areas of Canmore.
For a quick rundown: Exit 89 is for Three Sisters/Dead Man’s Flats and is ideal if you’re staying in a resort in the area. Most of you will probably take Exit 91 since it’s the main one to use if you’re heading to downtown Canmore, Main Street, or most of the hotels.
Lastly, if you’re planning to go past Canmore toward Banff or if you’re visiting the Canmore Nordic Centre, then take Exit 93.
What are other modes of transportation from Calgary to Canmore?
By Bus
Media from onit_transit
Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours
Pricing: $
If you’re looking for a low-cost way to get to Canmore without having to drive all the way there, you can take bus lines like On-It Regional Transit, FlixBus, Rider Express, and Banff Explorer.
In most cases, there are no stops along the way once you’re on board, so looking out the window and snapping some photos is the best way if you want to see some scenic points.
Still, the buses are basic but comfortable, and it’s best to book your ticket in advance, especially during summer weekends.
By Coach Service/Private Shuttle
Media from banffairporter
Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours
Pricing: $$
For those who want something more private, especially for families or groups, services like Brewster Express and Banff Airporter offer shuttle rides between Calgary (airport and downtown) and Canmore.
What’s nice about these coaches is that you can expect comfy sweating, onboard storage for luggage, and direct drop-offs in central Canmore or at least near your hotel.
These shuttles don’t make many stops, but hey, they’re reliable, clean, and a popular choice for visitors.
By Car Rental
Media from turo
Travel time: approx. 1 to 1.5 hours
Pricing: $$
Now, if you do want to drive but don’t have the wheels for it, renting a car will give you that control over your trip. In other words, you can stop wherever you want, take scenic detours, or explore nearby spots.
Finding a car rental provider isn’t difficult, either, especially at the airport and in the downtown area.
On the flip side, you should note that prices vary by season and vehicle type, and it’s worth checking that your rental has winter tires if you’re travelling between late October and early April.
Where to Stay in Canmore
The Canmore Hotel Hostel
Media from 1890smokehouse
Address: 738 8 St
Contact details: +1 403-688-7888
Check in: 4 PM
Check out: 10 AM
Pricing: $
Website
Housed in one of Canmore’s oldest buildings, The Canmore Hotel Hostel has a blend of rustic charm and a laid-back, social atmosphere. You’ll find lots of backpackers and solo travellers here since it’s budget-friendly.
Room-wise, they offer a mix of shared dorm-style accommodations and private rooms, which all depend on your budget and preference. Some of the amenities include a communal kitchen, shared bathrooms, and a cozy lounge area.
And since it’s located in downtown Canmore, you can easily walk to restaurants, coffee shops, trails, and grocery stores. You won’t need a car to explore the town center.
Chateau Canmore
Media from chateaucanmore_ab
Address: 1718 Bow Valley Trail
Contact details: +1 403-678-6699
Check in: 4 PM
Check out: 11 AM
Pricing: $$
Website
Chateau Canmore offers suite rooms with stunning mountain views. We like how every room is equipped with a kitchenette, work desk, fireplace, sofabed, and LCD TV, perfect if you want more space to unwind after arriving from Calgary.
You can also take a quick dip or a healing soak; the pool area overlooks the Rockies and offers both indoor and outdoor pools, including a sauna and hot tub. If you want to work out, they have a well-equipped gym and tennis courts.
Their on-site restaurant and cafe also come in clutch, especially if you’re not in the mood to leave the hotel. They also serve French-inspired cuisine and hearty breakfasts, with vegetarian and vegan options.
The Malcolm Hotel
Media from malcolmhotelcanmore
Address: 321 Spring Creek Dr
Contact details: +1 403-812-0680
Check in: 4 PM
Check out: 11 AM
Pricing: $$$
Website
For something more luxurious and upscale, The Malcolm Hotel offer 124 rooms and suites with mountain or creek views, great for couples, business travellers, and families.
The crowd favourite is probably the heated outdoor pool or one of two hot tubs on the second-floor deck overlooking the Three Sisters. We also like to spend downtime in the Highland Games lounge, complete with pool, football, scrabble, and poker, while staying active in the 24-hour gym.
If you’re willing to splurge and go for the best experience, consider choosing a room with a private balcony. It overlooks the pool deck, with relaxing views—the mountain sunsets are fantastic here!
What to Do in Canmore
Visit the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park
Media from canmore.nordiccentre
Address: 1988 Olympic Way
Contact details: +1 403-678-2400
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Website
What we like most about Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park is that it’s basically a year-round, multi-sport venue. Whether you’re showing up for a quick loop on roller skis, a short MTB ride, or even orienteering, the site is equipped for cross-season adventures.
On that note, winter visitors can go cross-country skiing, fat-biking, ice skating, tobogganing, and winter disc golf, while summer gives you mountain biking, hiking, trail running, and an 18-hole disc golf course.
It’s also a good idea to park close to the Day Lodge to make the most of facilities like the cafe, restrooms, and rentals. And don’t forget to check the current trail conditions or wildlife notices before heading out.
Kayak and paddleboard at Quarry Lake
Media from getouttheremagazine
Address: Canmore
Contact details: [email protected]
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 11 PM
Website
Quarry Lake is tucked right in the Rockies, showing off 360-degree panoramas of peaks like Ha Ling and Lady MacDonald. Its smaller size makes it a peaceful, low-commitment outing without the crowds.
Kayaking and paddleboarding here is no big deal and is incredibly beginner-friendly, with its sandy beach, shallow entry, free life jackets, and gentle water conditions.
There are also other activities and amenities here, like loop hiking trails, picnic tables, pit toilets, and a short lake sidewalk. You should also consider arriving early during summer to beat busy crowds and avoid running out of rentals.
Explore the Canmore Mountain Market
Media from canmoremountainmarket
Address: 700 Railway Ave
Contact details: +1 403-678-1500
Opening hours: Thursday: 10 AM – 6 PM
Website
To get that dose of community spirit, Canmore Mountain Market is a great spot to start. It operates every Friday from May to October, bringing together over 75 local artisans and producers, from farmers and bakers to woodworkers and jewellers.
So it’s no surprise how you can easily spot stalls with grown produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, preserves, and freshly roasted coffee. You can also browse handmade crafts, art, textiles, and mountain-themed collectibles.
Try visiting between 10 AM and noon (or after 2 PM) to avoid the mid-day rush and maximize your stall tour. Don’t forget to bring a reusable bag for fresh goods and plan to stroll across Railway Avenue afterward for more cafes and cute shops.
