Canmore to Banff
A Bear and Bison Inn

Canmore to Banff

Photo Credit: Sean Byrne @byrnephotography

There isn’t really anywhere to stop on your drive, but be sure to have a peak into Cascade Ponds, Lake Minnewanka, Two-Jack or Johnson Lake! Get off at the first exit, instead of Mount Norquay.

 

  1. Start in Canmore, AB.
  2. Get onto Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 W:

– If you’re starting from the central area of Canmore, head east on Bow Valley Trail/AB-1A E towards 8th St.

– Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto the Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 W ramp to Banff.

  1. Merge with Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 W.
  2. Continue on Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 W for approximately 25-30 km.
  3. Take the Banff/Lake Minnewanka exit off of Trans-Canada Hwy.
  4. Merge onto Banff Ave.
  5. Continue into the town of Banff. Banff Ave is the main street in town, so you can follow this straight into the heart of Banff.

 

Banff is only about a 20-30 minute drive from Canmore, but it’s always a good idea to check current road conditions, especially during winter months, and ensure you have the most up-to-date directions before starting your journey. Safe travels!

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A Truly Unforgettable Wedding Experience at the Bear & Bison Inn


Words can hardly express the gratitude and admiration we have for the entire team at the Bear & Bison Inn in Canmore. From the very beginning of our wedding planning journey to the final farewell on Sunday morning, every moment was handled with such care, professionalism, and heartfelt attention that we were left speechless more times than we can count.

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but the Bear & Bison made it feel effortless. Their team was not only incredibly organized but also intuitivethey seemed to anticipate our needs before we even realized them ourselves. Every detail was handled with such precision, from the ceremony setup to the timing of each meal, that we were able to be fully present and truly enjoy every second of the weekend. That is a rare and priceless gift to give a couple on their most important day.

One of the standout features was the food. “Out of this world” doesn’t even begin to do it justice. Each dish was crafted with obvious love and expertise—beautifully presented, bursting with flavour, and consistently praised by all our guests. Whether it was the thoughtfully curated breakfasts or the exquisite wedding dinner, every bite was unforgettable. We received so many compliments from friends and family who said it was the best wedding meal they’ve ever had. It truly felt like dining at a five-star restaurant, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Rockies.

The inn itself is warm, inviting, and steeped in charm. It felt like home the moment we arrived, but better—like the kind of cozy retreat you dream of escaping to. The rooms were spotless, comfortable, and offered stunning mountain views that added a magical touch to every morning. Our guests couldn’t stop talking about how beautiful the venue was and how relaxing and enjoyable their stay had been.

What really made the Bear & Bison so special, though, was the people. The staff’s dedication to excellence and their genuine kindness were felt in everything they did. We never once felt like “just another event” or like things were being done out of routine. Instead, we felt seen, heard, and genuinely cared for. There was heart behind every decision, and that made all the difference.

Our wedding weekend turned out better than we ever could have imagined. It was filled with love, laughter, beauty, and unforgettable memories—all thanks to the incredible team at the Bear & Bison Inn. We are forever grateful for the role they played in the most meaningful weekend of our lives. If you are considering hosting your wedding here, do not hesitate—it will be the best decision you make.

James M. June 2025

A Truly Unforgettable Wedding Experience at the Bear & Bison Inn

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