Winter Stargazing in Canmore and Kananaskis

Venture into the starlit landscapes of Canmore and Kananaskis, where the magic of winter paints these regions in a unique light. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast, a thrill-seeking adventurer, or someone who simply appreciates the peaceful allure of the night, there is no shortage of ways you can go stargazing in Canmore and Kananaskis.

Starry Stays

What better way to take in the constellations in our dark skies than from the comfort and warmth of your accommodation’s pool or hot tub? There are several hotels that provide some of the finest stargazing opportunities right here in town.

Basecamp Resorts

Basecamp Resorts offers an exclusive rooftop hot tub for its guests. With the quiet town below and the boundless sky above, this private oasis allows creates an unforgettable experience.

The Malcolm Hotel

The Malcolm Hotel elevates your stargazing experience by coupling it with a warm, inviting dip in the heated pool. The mountain vistas lit by the moonlight serve as a gorgeous silhouette against the stars, providing a serene backdrop for your evening swim.

Mount Engadine Lodge

For a truly remote stargazing experience, don’t miss out on a stay at the Mount Engadine Lodge. Nestled in the heart of Kananaskis Country, this lodge provides an unparalleled escape from light pollution and offers a front-row seat to some of the most incredible stargazing in the Bow Valley. The lodge also provides a selection of telescopes and binoculars for guests to get a close-up look at distant stars and planets. This is a spectacular location to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights!

Outdoor Excursions

The great outdoors is the best place to witness the most beautiful show on earth. Here are a few options for discovering the dark skies of Canmore and Kananaskis.

Stargazing Tour with Kananaskis Outfitters

Join Kananaskis Outfitters on a captivating journey through the cosmos. Starting with an invigorating starlit snowshoe, your guide will take you far away from city lights into the unfiltered wilderness of Kananaskis Country to gaze upon the twinkling stars. Armed with a telescope provided by your expert guide, you’ll dive deeper into the celestial wonders above and be awed by the incredible vastness of the Milky Way. If you’re lucky, you may even witness an elusive show of the Aurora Borealis!

Grotto Canyon Nighttime Ice Walk

Embark on an extraordinary adventure into Grotto Canyon with Canadian Rockies Experience. This exclusive expedition begins when your guide picks you up straight from your accommodations and whisks you away to the Grotto Canyon trailhead. As darkness falls, the canyon comes alive under the starlit sky. With your guide leading the way and ice cleats provided, you’ll trek along the icy pathways until the hike comes to an end at the frozen waterfall. Here you can marvel at the starry night sky while sipping on a steaming hot beverage and some locally sourced pastries – all part of your VIP experience. The beauty of the illuminated ice combined with the celestial wonders above makes this nighttime tour an unmissable experience.

Sunset Viewing at Benchlands Viewpoint and Quarry Lake

Winter sunsets in the mountains are truly a sight to behold. Make your way up to Benchlands Ridge in Canmore to witness the breathtaking transition from day to night as the sinking sun paints the snowy peaks in hues of pink, orange, and gold. Alternatively, you can head to Quarry Lake, where the snow-covered shoreline becomes a tranquil setting for a winter sunset spectacle. Pack extra blankets, find a cozy spot to take in the panoramic winter vistas, and allow the serene beauty of the winter sunset to captivate your senses.

In Canmore and Kananaskis, our natural ecosystems and stunning landscapes are the heart and soul of our local mountain culture. Before your visit, we encourage you to sign the Pledge to the Peaks, committing to mindful exploration to ensure the safety of all inhabitants of the region and preserve the beauty of our unfiltered wilderness for generations to come.