I head to Canmore in December to visit friends every year. And they want to show off their hometown, so off to Lake Louise, Banff, Kananaskis, and around Canmore we tour.
I combine outdoor time hiking, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, viewing the mountain scenery, and warm indoor breaks. While I go to visit friends, Canmore is suitable for couples and visitors who enjoy walking but want a manageable winter getaway.
This guide should help you plan your Canmore in December stay!
Is Canmore Worth Visiting in December If You Don’t Ski?
I am not a downhill skier, although I sometimes cross-country ski. But with the numerous outdoor activities and time in town, I still find plenty to do in the area every year. While the trade-offs for a December visit are cold weather, limited daylight, and weather-dependent plans, if dressed right, I still love my visits.
This visit is good for families, couples, visiting friends, or sports-minded people, as there are sports other than skiing.
Canmore in December at a Glance
Suggested trip length: I always go for one week to make the trip worthwhile, but I would stay at least 4 days. I go every year and find there are always new things to discover in the area, which includes nearby Banff National Park and Kananaskis. Okay, I cheat and stop in Calgary along the way as well.
Do you require a car: While it is best to have a car or rental vehicle, Canmore itself is very walkable, and the Roam Transit bus service covers Canmore, Banff, Johnston Canyon and Lake Louise. There are also guided tours from Canmore to many of the local attractions.
Main activities: If you do not ski, activities can include hiking, ice walks, snowshoeing, skating, sleigh rides, great dining, shopping, and more.
What to book ahead: Accommodation, rental cars, and any touring.
What to Expect in Canmore in December
Weather, Snow and Daylight
Temperatures can vary a lot from just mild to so cold that even Sunshine Village Ski Resort had to close. There is less daylight, so you need to leave extra time while hiking or snowshoeing to get back to your car.
Early December vs Christmas and New Year
Early December may be cheaper for accommodation and flights, but my friends want me to visit at Christmas. During the week between Christmas and New Year’s, everything is very busy, particularly Lake Louise, the streets of Banff, and Johnston Canyon.
Winter Walks Require Flexible Plans
Snow cover, ice, and trail conditions vary, so I cannot guarantee frozen waterfalls, skating, or a particular snowshoe experience, but I usually find no issues.
A Relaxed 3-Day Canmore December Itinerary
| Day | Main plan | Optional addition |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Settle into Canmore, explore downtown and take a short town walk | A longer riverside walk if conditions suit |
| Day 2 | Snowshoeing in Kananaskis or Canmore | A relaxed meal back in Canmore |
| Day 3 | Choose a Johnston Canyon winter outing, Grotto Canyon or a Lake Louise visit | A brief Banff stop if time and conditions allow |
Day 1 — Easy Winter Walks and Downtown Canmore
Start with Breakfast and a Short Walk
I went to the Summit Cafe, but there are numerous breakfast places in Canmore; it was a short walk from my hotel. I then took a short walk around town. When I visit in the summer months, I see lots of wild rabbits running around the town.
Explore Downtown Canmore
There is a mix of shops, galleries, cafés, and lunch spots in the main part of town. I also went to Beamers for coffee (2 locations) because it is a favourite of my friends and has easy parking.
Enjoy a Cozy Evening
Have dinner near your accommodation and then take an optional short evening stroll.
Day 2 — Snowshoeing in Kananaskis
My Snowshoeing Experience at Elkwood
My friends and I went for the snowshoe hike in Elkwood in Kananaskis. If driving from Canmore, it is 87 km (54 miles), taking one hour. We were delayed by some Big Horn Sheep sitting in the middle of Hwy 40 who were slow to move.
The trailheads for the cross-country ski and snowshoe are the same, but they follow different marked trails crossing at times. We started by walking the trail on the snow-covered campground (closed) road before reaching the shores of the Kananaskis, and there were several trails of varied lengths to follow. The views of the snow-capped mountains were magnificent.
Kananaskis Conservation Passes for the day or annually.
Canmore/Banff Snowshoeing Adventure: For 3 hours including transportation, a scenic drive into the remote mountain location, where you strap on your snowshoes, and explore the alpine terrain on a guided trek.
Return to Canmore for a Relaxed Afternoon
Leave room for a late lunch, downtime, or an indoor activity.
Day 3 — Choose Your Winter Mountain Outing
I have a blog post comparing the Johnston Canyon vs Grotto Canyon winter walks in detail if you want to check it out.
Option 1 — Johnston Canyon Winter Walk
I walked Johnston Canyon just before Christmas, and it was very busy. The trails and walkways to the Lower Falls were snow-covered. I would recommend microspikes (icers) for the slight inclines, but some people were just hanging onto the railings.
Snow-covered, the walk was very magical and one I would recommend.
Option 2 – Grotto Canyon Ice Walk
Grotto Canyon is located just outside Canmore and is part of Kananaskis and an excellent half-day walk anytime of the year. First, there are views of the Bow River Valley before you start walking up the bed of the creek.
You frequently cross the creek with icy banks and are surrounded by the canyon walls. Also expect to see frozen waterfalls and Native pictographs. Because of the rocky and icy conditions, this popular walk is slightly more challenging than Johnston Canyon.
For a Guided Grotto Canyon Ice Walk or Guided Grassi Lake and Grotto Canyon Hiking trip.
Canyon & Crafts Ice Walk & Brewery Tour: Combines both the Guided Grotto Canyon Ice Walk followed by a visit to a Canmore locally-owned brewery.
Option 3 — Lake Louise in December
I drove to Lake Louise in the week between Christmas and New Year’s, and it seemed everyone else had the same idea, but there were staff on hand directing cars into the parking spots.
People were wandering all over the frozen Lake Louise; some were skating, and others were exploring the Ice Castle. People were also following the walking trail on the far side of the lake where sleigh rides were also being offered. The views of everything happening with the mountain background were worth the visit.
Some Lake Louise guided winter tours
Lake Louise Winterland Tour: Guided sightseeing tour or join your guide for a bit of snowshoeing (free), rent some ice skates (extra cost) and skate on the lake, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride across the lake and back (extra cost). Departs from Banff.
Lake Louise Ice Skating Tour: Guided 4-hour tour. The lake freezes solid each winter, making it one of the most photographed natural rinks in the world.
Which Option Should You Choose?
If you just want an easy walk with lots of activities: Head to Lake Louise, where you can walk on the lake, see the Ice Castle, skate, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride.
Take a fairly easy trail and walkways to see waterfalls: Head to the Lower Falls or Upper Falls at Johnston Canyon if you have more time in this winter wonderland.
A slightly more challenging walk: Head to Grotto Canyon for the ice walk.
Canmore Nordic Centre: Although this post is for non-skiers, I must mention it is the site of the Canmore Nordic Centre, where the Winter Olympics cross-country skiing was held. Worth a visit if that interests you.
Prefer a Guided Winter Experience?
While the above tours are more specific guided tours, these are some general winter activities:
Sunshine Village Skiing, Hot Springs, & Sleigh Ride: Includes departures from Canmore or Banff. 8 hours.
Night Adventure Tour with Possible Stargazing: Guided 3.5 hours from Canmore or Banff. Use of a telescope for an up-close look at the universe from a secret dark spot with minimal light pollution away from the town. Includes hot chocolate or tea.
What to Do When It’s Too Cold for Your Original Plan
While not the norm in December, it was so cold that even the Sunshine Ski Resort had to close, although the Canmore Nordic Centre remained open. I went to a restaurant for lunch and then went shopping, but there were other things I could have done.
Public Indoor Skating or Outdoor Skating: The Town of Canmore maintains a wide number of locations with rentals at some. Even with outdoor skating, you will warm up quickly.
Explore Canmore Attractions: Include arcades, a climbing gym, curling, golf simulator, pottery, and pools.
Where to Stay in Canmore in December
The Malcom Hotel – Its Spring Creek location is a short walk from downtown. Guests can grab a bite to eat in the in-house restaurant, Stirling Grill Restaurant, or relax in the bar. There is underground parking, and a heated outdoor pool and hot tubs with mountain views. Best for couples and anyone who wants to walk to dinner.
Blackstone Mountain Lodge – Book a condo-style suite for a full kitchen and a living area with a fireplace. Heated underground parking and in-suite laundry in the one- to three-bedroom suites are handy after a snowy outing. Best for Families, friends, or couples who like to make breakfast and pack a trail lunch.
Canmore Inn & Suites – Located in the heart of Canmore, Canmore Inn & Suites features a three-story water slide, indoor pool, and rooms with mountain views and cable TV. Canmore Golf & Curling Club is only a 20-minute walk away. Parking is free, and downtown and groceries are within walking distance. Best for families who want an indoor option on a cold afternoon.
What to Pack for Canmore in December
Pack winter boots, microspikes, layers of clothing, gloves, a warm hat and daypack essentials.
For a more complete list of my essential winter clothing, my Winter Packing List can help.
My Tips for a Relaxed December Getaway
- Plan one main outdoor outing per day.
- Leave room for weather changes and warm breaks.
- Book around confirmed transport arrangements.
- Check trail and road conditions before setting out.
- Distinguish a short town walk from a more demanding mountain outing.
- Relax for a nice coffee break and later a dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Canmore worth visiting in December without skiing?
Yes, there is so much to do, including ice walks, hiking, skating, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, dining, shopping and more.
How many days should you spend in Canmore?
You should spend a minimum of 4 days, but I always stay for one week.
Can you visit Canmore in December without a car?
You do not need a car, as Canmore is very walkable and Roam Transit covers Canmore, Banff, Johnston Canyon and Lake Louise. Guided tours can take you on outdoor adventures.
Can you go snowshoeing in December?
Yes, you can go snowshoeing in December in Canmore and the trails in Kananaskis.
Is Canmore or Banff a better base for this trip?
They are only about 20 minutes apart, so anything you can do in Banff is just as easy from Canmore. Roam Transit covers both towns. However, prices in Canmore are lower than in Banff.
What can you do in Canmore when it’s very cold?
Lots to do when it’s very cold, including shopping, indoor public skating, arcades, a climbing gym, curling, golf simulations, pottery, and swimming pools.
Final Thoughts
I always look forward to visiting Canmore in December as I am always discovering new and fun winter activities and dining. Some places like Johnston Canyon and Lake Louise deserve second visits as the scenery is always changing with the weather.
Start planning your Canmore visit now as space can fill up quickly.
