The Best Family Short Walks Around Canmore
Canmore, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a charming mountain town filled with scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. While Canmore is known for its epic hikes and rugged trails, it's also home to a variety of easy, family-friendly walks right around downtown. These short, accessible trails are perfect for families with young children, strollers, or anyone looking for a relaxing way to take in the stunning scenery without venturing far from town. Here’s a guide to the best family short walks around downtown Canmore, where the beauty of the Rockies is just steps away.
1. Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk
Distance: 1.5 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 30 minutes
The Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk is one of the most popular and relaxing short walks in Canmore. This easy, flat boardwalk meanders through wetlands and alongside the creek, providing picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife. The trail is wide, flat, and stroller-friendly, making it ideal for families with young children. Along the way, you’ll see birds, wildflowers, and maybe even a beaver or two. It’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown, offering a serene, nature-filled experience right in the heart of Canmore.
2. The Canmore Engine Bridge Walk - Spur Line Trail
Distance: 1.5 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Just a short walk from downtown, the Canmore Engine Bridge Walk offers a scenic stroll along the Bow River. The trail passes over the historic Engine Bridge, which was once used for transporting supplies to the coal mines. The path follows the river, providing spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, and is a perfect opportunity for family photos. The trail is paved and accessible, making it ideal for families with strollers or young children. It’s a lovely way to explore the area’s history and enjoy some fresh mountain air.
3. Quarry Lake Park
Distance: 1.5 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 30 minutes
Located just a short drive from downtown Canmore, the Quarry Lake Park offers a peaceful walk that circles around a serene mountain lake. The trail is easy and relatively flat, making it perfect for families with young children or those wanting a gentle, scenic walk. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding the lake, and in the summer, the crystal-clear water and wildflowers create a picturesque setting. The walk is easy to navigate, and the quiet, relaxing atmosphere makes it a great escape from the bustle of downtown.
4. The Legacy Trail (from Canmore to Banff)
Distance: That's up to you!
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: Minimum 30 - 60 minutes recommended
While the Legacy Trail is typically known as a longer route from Canmore to Banff, a section of it is easily accessible for a short family walk. You can start from the Canmore Visitor Centre and walk a couple of kilometers along this beautiful, wide trail, which is perfect for strollers, kids, and cyclists. The trail offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and the Bow River, making it a relaxing way to get outside and enjoy the scenery without going too far. If you have older children or are looking for a longer walk, you can extend your adventure further into the trail.
5. Grotto Canyon Trail - (Located 15 minutes from Canmore)
Distance: 2.5 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate - strollers not recommended
Duration: 1 hour
For something a little more adventurous but still family-friendly, consider the Grotto Canyon Walk. This unique and scenic walk takes you through a narrow canyon, where you’ll pass rock walls adorned with ancient petroglyphs and waterfalls. The trail is a bit rockier than some of the others on this list, so sturdy shoes are recommended. It’s a short but fascinating walk that’s sure to captivate kids and adults alike. The narrow canyon and interesting rock formations create an unforgettable experience right outside of Canmore.
Tips for Family Walks Around Downtown Canmore:
- Bring Water & Snacks: Even for short walks, it's a good idea to bring along snacks and water, especially with young kids.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are always a good idea, especially for rocky trails like Grotto Canyon.
- Sun Protection: The mountain sun can be strong, so pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to keep everyone safe.
- Wildlife Safety: Canmore is surrounded by wildlife, so be mindful of your surroundings. Make noise to alert any animals of your presence and enjoy the wildlife from a safe distance. It's always a good idea to carry bear spray!
Canmore is full of scenic beauty, and you don’t need to venture far from downtown to experience its charm. These short, family-friendly walks offer the perfect opportunity to explore the area’s stunning landscapes, from peaceful creekside strolls to views of majestic mountains. Whether you’re in town for a day or a longer stay, these easy walks are a great way to spend quality time with your family and soak in the natural beauty that makes Canmore such a special place. So grab your gear, head outside, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the beautiful surroundings of downtown Canmore!