Photo Credit: Nick Fitzhardinge @nick_fitzhardinge
Staying at A Bear and Bison Inn puts you close to hiking, lakes, dining, spa experiences, Banff day trips, and year-round mountain activities in Canmore and Kananaskis. Whether you want outdoor adventure, a romantic getaway, or a slower stay with scenic views and great food, there is plenty to enjoy just minutes from the inn.
What’s Near the Inn?
A Bear and Bison Inn is close to many of the places guests come to Canmore to enjoy, including downtown Canmore, the Canmore Nordic Centre, Grassi Lakes, Quarry Lake, Banff, Lake Louise, and Kananaskis Nordic Spa.
See Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Banff and Emerald Lake the Easy Way
One of the best parts of staying in Canmore is how close you are to some of the Rockies’ most iconic lakes. Via Via is a locally owned shuttle and tour company that makes it easy to visit Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and Emerald Lake with pickup from the inn, simple planning, and a more relaxed way to explore.
Choose from daily sunrise and daytime shuttles, or book the full-day Big 3 Lakes Tour to see Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, Natural Bridge, and Takakkaw Falls in one unforgettable day. It is a simple way to experience more of Banff and Yoho without spending your trip worrying about traffic, parking, or timing.
Via Via also offers private shuttles with custom itineraries, so you can explore at your own pace with a driver-guide, thoughtful extras, and personal service from start to finish. Ready to see more while you are here? Explore the Daily Tours.
Outdoor Adventures in Canmore & Kananaskis
Canmore Hiking: Ascend trails like the iconic Ha Ling Peak, Grotto Canyon, Bow River Loop, The Hoodoos Trail, Tent Ridge, Grassi Lakes, and West Wind Pass each offering panoramic vistas and chances to encounter native wildlife.
Canmore Lakes: Delight in the serenity of Quarry Lake, Grassi Lakes, or nearby Spray Lakes, Rundle Reservoir, and the Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes, all perfect for a family picnic, paddle board, kayak, hike, or a tranquil meditation session.
Canmore Cave Tour: Experience a different side of the Rockies with a guided cave adventure near Canmore.
Best Restaurants & Breweries in Canmore
Restaurants of Canmore: Canmore offers a diverse culinary scene, from relaxed brunch spots and cafés to memorable dinners after a day outdoors. Explore some of the best restaurants in Canmore during your stay.
Canmore Breweries and Distilleries: Craft beer and spirits enthusiasts can sample local favourites, including Canmore Brewing, Grizzly Paw, Sheepdog, and Wildlife Distillery.
Year-Round Activities: Skiing, Biking, & Tours
Canmore Nordic Centre: Whether you’re into cross-country skiing or mountain biking, the Canmore Nordic Centre is your playground.
Canmore e-bike Rentals: Explore Canmore’s breathtaking landscapes at your own pace, with eco-friendly e-bike rentals.
Mountain Biking: In addition to the myriad of Trails at the Nordic Centre, there are some amazing Mountain Biking trails around Canmore.
Kananaskis Horseback Riding: Traversing rugged terrains and lush meadows atop a sturdy steed, Horseback Riding near Canmore is an incredible, family friendly activity!
Canmore Helicopter Tours: Soar above the majestic Rockies, capturing memories from bird’s eye views.
Dog Sledding in Canmore: Embrace the winter wonderland by participating in a historic tradition, dog sledding!
Snowshoeing in Canmore: Enjoy Snowshoeing in Canmore and Kananaskis!
Golfing in Canmore: Stroll the most picturesque greens in the Rockies. Canmore offers a variety of Golf Courses that combine great play with beautiful mountain views.
Kananaskis Nordic Spa: Just beyond our doorstep lies the Kananaskis Nordic Spa, a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation. Recharge after a day of exploring, enveloped by alpine air.
Paddleboarding: Explore the serene lakes and thrilling rivers of the Canadian Rockies, offering diverse paddleboarding experiences for all skill levels.
Skating: Experience the thrill of gliding across frozen lakes surrounded by the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Fishing:Discover the thrill of angling in the pristine waters of the Upper or Lower Bow River and Kananaskis Country, home to a diverse range of fish species and stunning landscapes.
River Surfing:Ride the river waves in the heart of the Rockies! Discover the thrill and adventure of river surfing on the Kananaskis River, a unique experience that’s gaining popularity every season.
Getting to Canmore from Calgary, Banff, & Lake Louise
Calgary to Canmore: An easy journey that promises scenic beauty at every turn whether you take the Bow Valley Trail or the Trans Canada Highway. For stunning mountain and foothills, we highly recommend the Parkway.
Banff to Canmore: A short and scenic fifteen-to-twenty-minute drive, bridging two of Alberta’s most sought-after destinations.
Canmore to Lake Louise: Traverse this picturesque Trans Canada Highway offering grand vistas, or the more winding, and intimate Bow Valley Parkway.
Explore Downtown Canmore & Local Attractions
Town of Canmore: Experience the vibrancy of downtown Canmore, dotted with boutique stores, art galleries, and historic sites.
Canmore Christmas & Winter Activities: The festive season brings a magical touch, with myriad Things to Do in Canmore in Winter.
Three Sisters Canmore: This iconic trio of peaks is a must-see, although they are hard to miss if you’re visiting Canmore!
Whether it’s the thrill of rafting in Canmore or the serene experience of Canmore canoe rentals and kayaking, there’s something for every traveler here. As your home away from home, A Bear and Bison Inn ensures you’re well-rested, well-fed, and well-prepared to embark on your next adventure.
What Can You Do During Your Stay?
Guests can spend their stay hiking local trails, visiting nearby lakes, exploring downtown Canmore, enjoying local restaurants and breweries, relaxing at the spa, or heading out for a scenic day trip to Banff or Lake Louise. In winter, skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and skating make Canmore just as memorable.
Ready to experience Canmore for yourself? Book Your Stay
Discover Banff Tours offers small-group adventures led by passionate local guides. Explore iconic sights, hidden gems, and real stories that bring the Rockies to life.
