Experience Canmore

Rumor has it that the town of Canmore was named in honour of King Malcolm III of Scotland from “Caennmor”, a Gaelic word that refers to one “being of tall stature” or “Big Head”.

Canmore is strategically located on the Trans-Canada Highway, one hour west of Calgary, adjacent to Kananaskis Country, and just minutes from the East Gates of Banff National Park. 135 years ago, the railroad was heading west into the Rockies and this became a key divisional point, in part due to the ready access to coal.

Photo Courtesy of Brendan Van Son @brendanvanson

There are few remnants left of the town’s rich coal mining history, but the Canmore Museum & Geoscience Centre is dedicated to telling this story and the geology of the Rocky Mountains. If you’d like to learn more, stop at the museum and consider taking home a souvenir.

Photo Courtesy of Tourism Canmore Kananaskis

When the mine whistles blew for the last time in July of 1979, it seemed certain that Canmore would join a growing list of ghost towns. But as fate would have it, a few short years after coal mining ceased, Canmore was selected to be the host community for two of the venues for the 1988 Winter Olympic Games.

Canmore has evolved from a mining town to a world-class resort while maintaining its authentic alpine charm. The 1988 Olympics helped breathe new life into the town. The population has risen from 2,000 to 14,000 and the number of hotel rooms, vacation properties and retail merchants has exploded.

Photo Courtesy of Government of Alberta / Parks Canada

Over the past 40 years, Canmore has evolved into a tourist town for all seasons, boasting all manner of outdoor adventures, several superior golf courses, and great dining experiences.

To start your day, visit Beamer’s Coffee. They have a nice variety of blends and yummy baked goodies to go with it. For an affordable and healthy brunch, with a terrific view, we’d recommend Chez François. Locals tend to gather at the Drake Hotel for a pint, although the patio at The Wood Restaurant, with a stunning view of the Three Sisters, is a great choice, as well.

Photo Courtesy of Luke Raymond

You may be surprised to learn that Grizzly Paw Brewing Company serves up hand-crafted soda pop for the kids. Recently recognized by Chatelaine Magazine as one of Canada’s “Dreamiest Book Stores”, Cafe Book’s Chapter Two is a cozy place, perfect for a quiet read, with a hot beverage or a glass of wine, and a sweet treat. And if romance is in the air, or you just want to completely unwind, a leisurely drive south to Mount Engadine Lodge is a must.