Canmore is a true four-season destination, but it welcomes the most visitors (by far) in summer and fall, when hiking trails are dry, rivers run high, and available outdoor pursuits range from larch hikes to rock climbing and guided Via Ferrata climbs.
Winter, by comparison, feels noticeably quieter—which is exactly what makes it so special. The sparkling snow-covered peaks, frozen creeks and waterfalls, and crisp mountain air are still here, but without the peak-season bustle.
Instead of racing through an itinerary, you can slow down, savour the quiet but carefully curated Canmore events calendar, and feel like you’re actually in the Rockies as opposed to just passing through.
With that in mind, here are some of the best relaxing and recharging things to do in Canmore fall 2025 and into winter—whether you’re here for a long weekend or staying for a week of unplugged mountain living.
Take a Leisurely Winter Walk
Want to enjoy the snow and brisk mountain air without strapping into skis or snowshoes? Canmore has several mellow walking paths that are just as beautiful—and accessible—in winter as in peak hiking season. No special gear is required beyond, but be sure to pack plenty of warm layers and Microspikes (buy them affordably from online retailers or at several Canmore outfitters in town).
Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk: Easy, flat, and ideal for sunrise or sunset. Grab a coffee or hot cocoa downtown before heading out, and keep an eye out for elk along the frozen marsh.
Three Sisters Viewpoint: A super short, super easy stroll with one of the best postcard-worthy angles of the famous trio of peaks.
Bow River Loop: Follows the river across two footbridges, including the iconic Engine Bridge, with benches and lookouts along the way.
Quarry Lake: A peaceful, dog-friendly loop (and one of the most popular answers when you ask locals what's happening in Canmore) with panoramic views of Ha Ling and Lady Macdonald. The bathrooms are closed in winter, but the picnic areas and trails are accessible.
Grotto Canyon Icewalk: Walk directly on the frozen creek, through narrow canyon walls and past ancient pictographs and frozen waterfalls as tall as 30 meters. Adventurous visitors can book guided ice climbs, even with no prior climbing experience.
Enjoy Slow Mornings with Mountain Views with In-suite breakfast
One of the perks of winter travel is not feeling like you need to rush out the door before the trails get crowded or to stay up on what's happening in Canmore. Instead, linger over breakfast, watch the alpenglow slowly creep over the peaks, and brew a proper cup of coffee before heading outside. The Bellstar-managed suites at Solara come with full kitchens, dining areas, and private balconies, plus many have fireplaces. That means you can enjoy a slow morning without sacrificing the view.
Have an Unplugged Night In
Winter is arguably prime time for low-key evenings, especially when the temperature drops and the stars feel close enough to touch. Light your in-room fireplace and catch up on that book you’ve been “meaning to start,” bring a journal or sketchbook and let the quiet inspire your inner creativity, order takeout from a local spot and skip the nightly wait for a dinner table, or bundle up and step onto your balcony (or better yet, out to the hot tub) to stargaze—the night sky in the Rockies is astonishingly clear.
Cozy Up in Local Canmore Cafes
Winter calls for warm drinks and comfort food, and Canmore’s local restaurant scene delivers.
Le Fournil Bakery: Buttery croissants, French pastries, and light breakfasts that pair perfectly with a walk along Policeman’s Creek (or slow morning in).
Iron Goat Pub & Grill: A ski-lodge vibe with big timber logs, stone fireplaces, mountain views, and hearty mains.
Wit Bar (below The Sensory): A dimly lit, speakeasy-style bar with craft cocktails and live music.
Grande Kitchen + Bar (inside Grande Rockies Resort) – Known for its brunch and all-day menu, just a short walk from downtown.
Bookmark the Canmore events calendar before you go. Many local restaurants and breweries add winter trivia nights, live music, open mics, and themed dinners to their weekly lineup.
Indulge in a Spa Treatment
If your version of what to do in Canmore involves more relaxation than recreation, winter is a fitting time for it. Book a massage, try a reiki treatment, or simply rotate between hot and cold therapies. Located near Solara Resort, the Recovery Zona Spa is open to the public and home to cedar and infrared saunas, an aromatherapy steam room, polar plunge, and a recovery lounge. Massage treatments, the spa's specialty, range from deep-tissue to energy work. Alternatively, if you’re staying in one of the Bellstar-managed Solara suites, the spa-inspired bathrooms include soaker tubs and rain-style spa showers with multiple massage jets—ideal after a cold-weather walk or a day on the slopes.
When it comes to accommodation…
If you want the comfort and privacy of a condo-style suite, several properties in town offer full kitchens, fireplaces, and private balconies with mountain views. For example, Bellstar manages select one-, two-, and three-bedroom vacation rental suites within the Solara Resort with luxurious spa-style bathrooms and cozy living areas perfect for families, couples, or small groups.