Top 9 Ways to See the Fall Colours in Canmore and Kananaskis

If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to experiencing the best of autumn in the Canadian Rockies, you’ve come to the right place. From scenic drives to hiking adventures, and everything in between, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to fall in love with Canmore Kananaskis as we take you through the top activities to enjoy during the colorful fall season.

#1 Larch Hikes

Every year, visitors come from all over the world to marvel at the unique and spectacular changing colours of our famous larch trees. The only conifer to shed their needles, larch trees usually change to a golden yellow colour in mid-September and lose their needles in late October. Explore the best places to spot larch trees in Kananaskis. Better yet, try a guided hiking experience!

#2 Birds of the Bow River Float

Nothing can compare to the serenity of floating along the Bow River, surrounded by the dazzling fall foliage and a symphony of bird songs. Canmore Raft Tours offers a unique Birding Raft Float along the Bow River, where you’ll have the chance to spot migratory birds against the backdrop of the beautiful autumn colours.

#3 Rock Climbing

They call it “rock-tober” for a reason! As the temperatures start to cool off, fall becomes the best time of year to go outdoor rock climbing in the Bow Valley. Get your adrenaline pumping with outdoor rock climbing led by Paramount Guides or Yamnuska Mountain Adventures. The higher you climb, the more spectacular the views of the autumn hues blanketing the valley. This experience caters to all levels, from beginners to experienced climbers, promising an adventure-filled fall day out.

#4 Bike the Legacy Trail

Pedal your way through the fall splendour along the Legacy Trail, a popular 22-kilometre pathway connecting Canmore and Banff. Choose a traditional bike or opt for an e-bike rental from  GearUp Mountain Sport and Rentals, Rebound Cycle, Sports Garage, and Pedego Electric Bikes to make your journey easier. This trail offers sweeping views of the Rockies, beautifully adorned in their autumn colours. The Legacy Trail bike path stays open until mid-October.

#5 Helicopter tour

Shift your perspective and embrace the breathtaking panorama of fall with Alpine Helitours, a quintessential experience promising an elevated perspective of the vibrant patchwork quilt of fall colours below. Look down on golden hues interspersed with evergreens, the sparkling glacial rivers, and the majestic Rockies reaching into the vast Alberta skies.

#6 Toss around a disc

Mix fun and nature by playing a round of disc golf at the Canmore Nordic Centre. Woven through the golden aspens and evergreens, the course is a delight to navigate. It’s an ideal way to enjoy a beautiful fall day with friends or family. Rent a disc at Trail Sports, conveniently located just outside of the Nordic Centre, and try your hand at this growing sport at this exciting course.

#7 Brewery tour

Your fall colours tour wouldn’t be complete without a taste of our colourful local brews. The Mountain City Brew Bus Tour offers a delightful and relaxing tour around Canmore’s craft breweries so you can enjoy the exquisite local flavours while savouring the stunning views of the fall landscape. Delicious hand-crafted sodas as well make it a great family-friendly activity.

#8 Forest Bathing

Experience the calming and healing power of nature through forest bathing, a mindful walk through the beautiful woodland guided by Forest Fix or Original Path Guiding. The tranquillity of the forest combined with the sensory explosion of fall colours creates a rejuvenating and unforgettable experience.

#9 Horseback riding

Embrace the simple pleasures of life on a horseback riding tour with Boundary Ranch. Experience the nostalgia of old-world charm paired with the unparalleled beauty of Kananaskis Country in the autumn. A leisurely ride through the Kananaskis Country will offer an unparalleled view of the autumn spectacle.

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.