Things to do in Canmore in the Winter When You're Not Skiing

Things to do in Canmore: Winter Edition

Go Dog Sledding 

There's nothing more Canadian than hopping on the pack of a dog-powered sled and ripping through a snowy forest, wouldn't you agree? Luckily for us, we've got a few incredible dog sled tour operators in town that will bring all of you dog lovers and adventure seekers on a ride that you will remember. Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours is a family-owned and operated tour company that's been going strong in Canmore for four decades. Their adorable and hard-working huskies will take you for the ride, and you can even drive your own sled. Another incredible part about Snowy Owl is that they've recently added Dog Cart Tours to their roster of options so that you can get the whole experience in the summer, too. Of course, the ultimate adventure takes place in the winter. 

Paint Pottery

If you're feeling more arts and crafts than adrenaline and speed, we've got just the thing for you. Crock A Doodle is a bright and inviting studio in Canmore where you can paint your own pottery and hang out with your friends while you do. No matter your level of artistry or experience, you'll have a blast and get the perfect souvenir to take home. Ideal for families, groups of friends, team building, or any occasion, it's the ideal way to do something different and let your creative side out for an afternoon. 

Go Bowling in Banff 

If you're up for a short drive or bus ride, we'd be remiss if we didn't recommend a visit to High Rollers in Banff. This awesome hot-spot features a bowling alley, pool tables, over 40 craft beers on tap, and delicious NYC-style pizza. The vibe is a cross between a cozy ski lodge and a retro bowling alley, and you can't walk in without having a blast. Whether you're renting a lane during the day to get competitive and knock over some pins, or you're swinging through in the evening for some beers and a game of pool, you can't go wrong. 

Take Yourself on a Local Booze Tour

Speaking of drinks, you should consider taking yourself on a tour of the amazing local booze scene in Canmore. You can start your journey in the Elk Run Industrial Area, where you'll find Sheepdog Brewing and Wild Life Distillery. These inviting little hot spots are some of Canmore's best-kept secrets, and you'll get the chance to sample some local favourites when it comes to beer, spirits, and cocktails. Next, you can head to Canmore Brewing Company, where you can sample a flight of beer and get in with the local scene. Finally, finish off at Core Values Cider Co. for some delicious cider and immaculate vibes. If you're feeling more stationary, come to CanGOLF, where we've got an impressive roster of all of the local drinks for you to enjoy. 

Go on a (Local) Shopping Spree

If you like supporting the local communities you visit, you might as well take yourself on a little shopping spree. If you head down to Main Street and the area, you'll find some incredible local hot spots to shop. We'd suggest checking out Stonewaters, Cafe Books, Indigo Bay, Project A, Hello Vintage, Rocky Mountain Soap Co. and Alberta's Own Marketplace. 

Come Swing Some Clubs 

Obviously, the best thing to do on a cold day or night in Canmore is to book a golf simulator at CanGOLF. You'll have a blast swinging clubs, eating delicious food, having a couple of drinks, and hanging out in our lively sports bar environment. We've got arcade-style games to play, live sports on the TVs at all times, and tons of fun to be had. Our golf simulators welcome golfers of all levels, even if you've never swung a club in your life. It's a blast, it's a great indoor activity in Canmore, and it's a real crowd-pleaser if the pressure is on you to make the plan. Book your golf sim today. 

Go Snowshoeing 

Snowshoeing is another great winter activity if you love to explore, but you're looking for something a bit more leisurely than a day at the ski hill. While many of the best places require a drive, we promise that it's worth it, and often, the drive is an adventure in and of itself. Some great places to check out include Hogarth Lakes, shark Lake Trail, Troll Falls, Grotto Canyon, Grassi Lakes, Chester Lake, Rawson Lake Trail, Rummel Lake, and the list goes on. 

Go Climbing Indoors 

If you've come to the Bow Valley in pursuit of climbing, you're going to have to head indoors in the winter. Luckily, we've got two great places to enjoy a climbing session indoors that are great for all levels and are a fun way to escape the cold for a couple of hours. You can head to our local recreation centre, Elevation Place, to enjoy top rope, bouldering, and auto-belay climbing in a nice, big facility with a ton of knowledgeable staff to help you out. Or, you can check out Canmore Climbing Gym, our local bouldering gym that features a ton of awesome routes that are sure to challenge even the best of climbers. Don't worry; there are tons of easy routes, too. 

Bored and cold? We've got you covered. Come see us at CanGOLF to have a blast in winter, no matter the season.