Less than an hour's drive from Calgary, the Rockies await. We truly find few things in life more grounding than a mountain adventure. Not sure where to go or what to do? Explore and experience our stunning backyard without having to scroll through endless restaurant reviews, mixed hiking recommendations and endless travel blogs - we've done the hard work for you. Next time you're ready for a mountain adventure - and let's be honest, who isn't?! - try this out and tag us in your explorations.
Your Morning Fuel
Start your day off right with a tea from yours truly at Eclipse Coffee Roasters in Canmore. Eclipse has been serving up hot drinks since 2014 in this picturesque location, nestled on a corner lot right as you drive into town. Hot or cold, order up your favourite Grounded Tea blend, alongside a breakfast wrap, baked good or snack gathered from local makers.
Daytime Activity: Hiking
When visiting the mountains, there are truly unlimited options when it comes to your activity, based on your fitness level, interests and equipment requirements. The easiest to prepare for, and arguably one most rewarding activities (our personal fave), is hiking. There's something about scaling and summiting a mountain with your own two feet that leaves us completely breathless - and it's not just exhaustion.
In the Canmore area, the hikes are plentiful, but these two stand opposite each other, providing excellent views of Canmore and other hikers on the opposing peaks.
Miner's Peak
On the shorter but steeper side, this hike is gruelling but it won't take all day. Follow the Ha Ling trail for the majority of the hike but veer right once you pass the tree line and summit the adjacent mountain. The Ha Ling trail will be busy, but once you head toward Miner's Peak, expect wide open spaces and not another soul around.
Walk the ridge to this peak, enjoying an element of danger as you gaze down upon Canmore below you. Soon you'll dip below the ridge and be surrounded by flat cliff faces and 'Lord of the Rings' vibes as you scramble down to the one green, grassy patch to take your much-deserved break.
East End of Rundle
Perhaps you're looking for a longer excursion. This hike is more of a climb for the first half, taking you up a rocky ridge and requiring the use of your hands. Through trees and some snow most months of the year, you'll make your way up the mountain on various trails skirting the edge, and then heading back to the other side. Eventually, you'll leave the tree line and climb over grass and then rock to reach the very top where you will gaze out over Canmore and the Rocky Mountains surrounding you with a 360-degree view.
Rest & Recharge in Canmore
To top it off, Canmore is home to countless notable restaurants and local pubs to refuel after a long day in the mountains. If you're looking for a casual yet tasty stop, The Grizzly Paw Pub will do just the trick. With locally brewed beers and comfort eats like nachos, tots, burgers and more, this is one of the tastiest pubs in Canmore. If you're looking for something more modern, BLAKE offers international fusion food in a converted garage with chic industrial decor. Dive into a falafel burger, meatball banh mi, green curry and their extensive cocktail list to really relax after scaling a mountain.
So, who's ready to hit the road?!
~ Let's drink tea & live grounded ~
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