Top 5 Easy Day Hikes in Canmore (Within 15 Minutes of Your Stay)

Canmore is full of postcard-worthy views—and you don’t need to hike for hours to enjoy them. Whether you’re visiting with kids, walking your dog, or just easing into mountain life, these five easy hikes offer scenic rewards with minimal effort. Even better? Each trailhead is just a short drive from town.

1. Upper Grassi Lakes Trail

• Distance: 3.4 km round-trip

• Time: 1–1.5 hours

• Elevation Gain: 158 m

• Dog-Friendly: Yes (on leash)

Grassi Lakes is a must-do for any Canmore visitor. The “easy” route is a wide gravel path with a gentle incline, leading through lush forest to two vibrant turquoise lakes beneath towering cliffs. It’s perfect for beginners or families with children. The trail is open April to October and bear spray is recommended. Parking fills up fast, so come early. Enjoy beautiful scenery and keep to marked trails to protect wildlife in this special area!

Trailhead: Spray Lakes Road (5–7 minutes from downtown Canmore)

2. Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk

• Distance: ~3 km (out and back or loop options)

• Time: 30–60 minutes

• Elevation Gain: Light

• Dog-Friendly: Yes (on leash)

Policeman’s Creek boardwalk is a must-visit for anyone exploring Canmore. This easy, scenic trail runs through the heart of town, offering stunning views of the Three Sisters, Ha Ling, and Mount Rundle. Ideal for all ages, the path winds past peaceful ponds and forested areas, with chances to spot local wildlife like ducks and deer. It’s open year-round and connects to Canmore’s larger trail network. Start your walk near the Big Head sculpture by The Drake Pub and enjoy a relaxing, picture-perfect stroll right in town.

Trailhead: Start near the Big Head sculpture on Main Street or the Spring Creek bridge.

3. Canmore Hoodoos / Benchlands Ridge

• Distance: 2.7 km round-trip

• Time: 1 hour

• Elevation Gain: 147 m

• Dog-Friendly: Yes (on leash)

This popular out-and-back trail in Canmore is a local favorite for walking and light uphill climbs. It’s accessible year-round and offers scenic views throughout, especially appealing for those out with their dogs—just be sure to keep them leashed. From the parking area, take the first unofficial path on the right to reach the hoodoos. While they’re small, they make for a fun photo stop. You can also follow the main trail for a different viewpoint from below, followed by a gentle climb that rewards you with stunning views of Canmore framed by mountain peaks.

Trailhead: Benchlands Terrace Drive (look for the unmarked pull-off near the water tower)

4. Quarry Lake

• Distance:1.3 km loop

• Time: 20–30 minutes

• Elevation Gain: 53 m

• Dog-Friendly: No (off-leash area nearby)

Explore this scenic loop near Canmore, perfect for a relaxed walk through open valley landscapes with stunning mountain views. While dogs aren’t allowed around the lake, they’re welcome at the nearby off-leash park. Popular year-round, the trail is family-friendly and ideal for strollers, sleds, and wagons. It’s a local favorite for picnics, casual strolls, and soaking up the natural beauty—not a hike, but a lovely outdoor escape.

Trailhead: Quarry Lake Day Use Area (7 minutes from town, off Spray Lakes Road)

5. Three Sisters Creek Trail

• Distance: 4 km round-trip

• Time: 1–1.5 hours

• Elevation Gain: 194 m

• Dog-Friendly: Yes (on leash)

This forested trail winds alongside the gentle flow of Three Sisters Creek, offering a peaceful and scenic adventure near Canmore. The path provides beautiful views of the iconic Three Sisters peaks and leads to two lovely waterfalls—Faith Falls and, shortly after, Hope Falls. Though the trail isn’t clearly marked, it’s easy to follow. You’ll encounter a steady but manageable elevation gain and may need to cross the creek in a few spots—waterproof footwear is recommended. This trail is a local favourite year-round and is well-loved for hiking, biking, and snowshoeing. Dogs are welcome on leash.

Trailhead: Three Sisters Boulevard and Hubman Landing Road (10 minutes from downtown)

These trails prove that you don’t need to summit a mountain to enjoy Canmore’s beauty. With flat paths, lakeside loops, and creekside strolls, you’ll get fresh air and photo-worthy views—without the steep climbs.

Make the most of your stay: Book one of our centrally located Canmore rentals and wake up just minutes from these incredible trails. Whether you're sipping coffee on the patio or strolling to turquoise lakes, your perfect day starts right outside your door. 🌿✨⛰️