While the denizens of Canmore loved their gorgeous little town, they had never thought of commercializing their natural recreation opportunities. The crowds at the Olympics were so impressed with the little mining town that Canmore quickly bounced back as a recreational tourist town. Today, tourists are attracted to Canmore's Museum and Geoscience Centre, the 24 Hours of Adrenalin mountain bike race, Canmore Uncorked, and movie settings. Canmore has served as the backdrop for famous films such as “The Edge,” “Shanghai Noon,” “Brokeback Mountain,” and “Snow Dogs.”
The Best Time to Visit Canmore, AB
Canmore experiences fluctuations in tourism and hotel rates throughout the year. Canmore is at its busiest during the summer months and during the winter ski season. In the summer, tourists come for legendary hiking, breathtaking views, and gorgeous natural scenery. While the summer months can be crowded, it can be difficult to visit Canmore before May. Many hiking trails are still covered in snow and lakes remain frozen over until late April. For these reasons, most people visit Canmore from June to September, with the majority of the crowds clearing out before the Labor Day weekend. The summer months are the perfect time for fly-fishing, rafting, horseback riding, hiking, camping, and golfing.
In the winter, tourists from all over Canada as well as international cities come to Canmore to experience the Olympic-worthy skiing and snowboarding environment. From December to mid-April, Canmore is buzzing with talk of the best ski slopes, snowshoeing routes, ice-skating, and sleigh rides. Hotel rates are at their highest during the busy winter months.
If you're looking to visit Canmore on a budget, consider visiting in mid- to late September and October. The crowds have likely dispersed by this time and the natural attractions are still impressive and accessible. While the weather may be a bit cool, it's nothing a warm outer coat can't fix. Hotel rates drop after the Labor Day weekend, which means you can save money while still enjoying a lovely mountain getaway.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Canmore, AB:
Canmore by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean nightly cost trends by star rating class in Canmore, AB. You can use these charts to determine the best time period to stay in Canmore during the year.
Luxury Options in Canmore, AB
4 Star Average Prices: $143.71
Canmore has some amazing four-star hotels located throughout the town. First, the Stoneridge Mountain Resort is an impressive location designed with a perfect balance of cobblestone and natural wood. Located near the Canmore Caverns and the Silvertip Golf Course, the Stoneridge Mountain Resort caters to those who appreciate the finest that life has to offer. Rooms even include a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances, plush pillow-top beds with Egyptian cotton sheets, and a fireplace to fully bring you into the mountain environment.
Next, the Solara Resort & Spa is located near the Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre and the Canmore Golf and Curling Club. Each of the Solara Resort & Spa's 192 rooms come with air conditioning and a fireplace to make sure you're comfortable no matter what time of year you visit. Pamper yourself during your trip with the full-service spa, wading pools, two hot tubs, and a fitness center. This stunningly designed, four-star hotel regularly hosts wedding services and business meetings.
The Grande Rockies Resort cradles you in a safe and luxurious atmosphere all year round. From the large indoor pool with a thrilling twisted water slide to the children's water play area to the expansive outdoor grounds for lovely sunny-day picnics, the Grande Rockies Resort is ready for anything. The suites include free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, ski storage, and access to the fitness facility. The kind staff will help you schedule tours and ticketing for local attractions to round out your vacation.
Finally, the Blackstone Mountain Lodge offers rooms fully equipped with the most modern and stylish kitchen appliances, spacious living room areas, work spaces, and relaxing bedrooms. The Blackstone Mountain Lodge is passionate about being open and honest with guests by having no hidden fees. Make reservations for a massage or cool off in the summer time with the crystal clear outdoor pool.
Affordable Options in Canmore, AB
3 Star Average Prices: $135.81
There are three great affordable lodging options in Canmore. First, the Rundle Mountain Lodge is a terrific pet-friendly hotel near all the best attractions in Canmore. With a log cabin feel, this lodge is a cozy place to rest your head after a long day of adventuring. Outside, the lodge has a whimsical playground for children right beside prime picnic locations and barbecue grills. Inside, you'll find an indoor pool, sweeping mountain views from each room, free wireless internet, free parking, and laundry facilities. While you're staying at the Rundle Mountain Lodge, be sure to check out the nearby Cross Zee Ranch.
The Ramada Canmore is another affordable option in Canmore. Unlike most low-cost hotels, the Ramada Canmore offers top amenities such as an indoor pool with a water slide, indoor hot tub, fitness center, and meeting space. You can also enjoy the Ramada's hot breakfast buffet, which has earned incredible reviews from past guests. This smoke-free property also includes a business center, ATM, luggage and ski storage, and laundry facilities.
Finally, the Bow Valley Motel is the third hotel on our list of affordable options in Canmore. Tucked into the impressive mountain foothills, this beautiful property is privileged to have incredible views of flora and fauna all year round. With outdoor picnic and grilling areas, private balconies attached to the rooms, and ski passes available at the front desk, the Bow Valley Motel appreciates the outdoors. The motel is close to the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park and is within walking distance to the Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre.