Canmore: The Gateway to the Rockies

Visit the underrated jewel of the Rockies located just 20 minutes outside of Banff.

Want to see the mountains but avoid tourists? Canmore still has a quiet and quaint vibe – even though it's beginning to boom! From restaurants to landmarks, here's what you need to know about visiting Canmore, Alberta.

A view of the mountains in Canmore from the patio of The Wood restaurant

Canmore highlights:

Canmore is known as "the gateway to the Rockies".
Canmore is less touristy and busy than neighbouring Banff.
It's a lot cheaper to stay in Canmore than Banff.
You can strategically book your hotel in Canmore but still enjoy everything Banff has to offer as it's a only a very easy (and beautiful) 20 minute drive between the two towns.
Famous landmark: The Three Sisters mountain peaks

A view of The three Sisters mountain peaks in Canmore — The Three Sisters mountain peaks in Canmore

Specific intel about Canmore

Where is Canmore located?

Canmore is just over an hour drive west of Calgary's International Airport and a 20 minute drive from Banff (if you're coming from Calgary, you have to drive through Canmore to get to Banff!)

Where should I stay in Canmore?

Which restaurants should I eat at in Canmore?

What can I do in Canmore?