Your Fall Bucket List: 6 Adventures in Canmore and Kananaskis

Fall in Canmore and Kananaskis is a special time of year. The air is crisp, and locals start digging out their sweaters and flannel shirts. As the days begin to cool off and the summer holidays are ending, autumn is the perfect time for an adventure in Canmore and Kananaskis. We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite ways to take advantage of fall in the Canadian Rockies.

#1 Discover the golden larch valleys of Kananaskis

There’s no better way to celebrate the changing of seasons than viewing our world-famous larch trees on an autumn hike in K-Country. Needles on the larch trees transform to a golden hue for just a few weeks, usually starting in mid-September, making autumn a special time for locals and visitors alike.

Check out our list of top larch hikes in Canmore and Kananaskis to experience the spectacular changing colours. There are also many larches scattered around Canmore if you’d rather stay in town – this is the perfect opportunity to explore our extensive network of trails that will take you sightseeing along the beautiful Bow River.

As always, check AB Parks trail advisories and brush up on wildlife safety tips before venturing out to the remote areas of Canmore and Kananaskis.

#2 Soar above the clouds

Thrill-seekers will love a magnificent helicopter tour around the soaring mountain ranges of Canmore and Kananaskis. From high above the ground, you will get to experience the staggering Rocky Mountains from a completely new perspective. Seeing the alpine lakes, glaciers and waterfalls from a bird’s eye view is guaranteed to be the highlight of your trip.

#3 Treat yourself to the ultimate dining experience

Canmore and Kananaskis are home to a remarkable food and dining scene with options you wouldn’t expect to see in your average small town. After breaking a sweat on the trails or coming out of your latest mountain adventure, you’ll be ready to fill your belly with the curated delicacies that the region offers.

What’s on our bucket list, you ask? At Sauvage, you will be treated to foraged ingredients from right here in the Bow Valley. The Stirling Lounge is a classic go-to for a fine dining experience, while The Drake Pub offers quality, casual Alberta-style BBQ. Once your hunger is satisfied, Wild Life Distillery is the place to be for a locally handcrafted cocktail. Bottoms up!

#4 Take a friendly float down the Bow River

One of the best ways to enjoy the stunning fall scenery is on a relaxing trip down the river. Canmore Raft Tours offers daily float tours down the iconic Bow River, with your option of raft, canoe, or kayak. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to enjoy the beautiful views from the perspective of the river.

#5 Book a premier canyoning adventure

Canmore and Kananaskis are known for their pristine mountains, but there are more ways of exploring these majestic ranges than just hiking up them. Bow Valley Canyon Tours offers epic guided adventures that will take you through the most spectacular creeks and canyons around. These tours cater to thrill-seeking beginners, veteran canyoners and everyone in between. You can experience everything from sliding down naturally carved rocks to rappelling next to magnificent waterfalls. What more are you waiting for?

#6 Try your luck at the casino

Spend an evening with some fun and games at Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino. Try your luck at the casino, complemented by flavourful dining and drinks! While you’re there, why not spend the night, relax in the indoor pool, and take in a glorious Rocky Mountain sunrise from your room?

Canmore and Kananaskis offer so many options for adventure, your best bet is to stay in town for a night (or three!) to soak it all up. Explore our accommodations, from hostels to B&Bs to chalet-style vacation homes, all of which are so cozy you won’t want to leave.

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.