Looking for family fun in the mountains this year? As attractive as hibernating sounds, cabin crazy kids have a way of making the longest season even longer. You may not have considered Canmore, on the doorstep of Banff National Park, as the place for the ideal winter family vacation, but you should! Long the country cousin of neighbouring Banff, Canmore has come into its own as a fantastic year round destination. Here we have compiled the top Canmore activities for families this winter. You can thank us later!dog-sleddingDog Sledding. I recently met a guy who worked for a dogsledding company. In the course of conversation, he told me that it is very common for international visitors to plan their entire trip around a dogsledding excursion. Living so close to the option, I had never considered how privileged we are. I’ve never gone though, have you? Maybe this is the winter to change that!

Elevation Place. A recreation centre that has it all! If you are in the mood to get wet, the centre boasts a competition length lap pool, rip-roaring waterslide, and a relaxing lazy river. If you prefer to rise above, everyone aged four and older is encouraged to give the climbing wall a try. The friendly staff will show you the ropes (literally!) if you need a hand.

skating-on-the-pondSkating on the Pond. Not that it would be easy to pick a heart of winter fun in Canmore, but a contender would have to be “the Pond.” Located just north of Downtown is the perfect spot for lacing up your skates. Actually the most perfect spot is the adjacent heated gazebo. For a warm bevvie after the skating, we suggest the nearby Communitea Café!

Cross Country Skiing. Feel muscles you forgot (or never knew…) you had! Cross country skiing is an amazing workout and something the whole family can master. If you have very little ones, investigate a sled you can tow along. In my house “you” would be my husband.

three-sistersIce Walk. An icewalk is a cool way to experience the terrain in a very different way. A good old fashioned hike takes on new and ethereal beauty when the scenery is covered in snow and ice. Near Canmore, the Grotto Canyon walk leads you to a stunning frozen waterfall at the end. Take a guided tour or go it yourself!

Snow-Tubing. As a recent convert to the joy of tubing on a ski hill, I can vouch for the thrill of whizzing down the hill on a tube! The only technique you need to master is hanging on. And sliding on an inflatable tube is far superior to the falling I usually do! Give it a go at Nakiska Mountain Resort or Lake Louise Ski Area!

snowshoeingSnowshoeing. Nothing more fun than the most Canadian mode of transportation…that’s right, snowshoeing! Strap those suckers on and give’r! Canmore features a number of trails and circuits, visit the Visitor’s Centre for a map.

The Winter Carnival. Every winter (see Canmore Kananaskis website for exact dates), you’ll find Canmore abuzz with the fun of the Winter Carnival! See ice carving, snow sculpting and a bunch of events and activities that families will love!

Canmore is host to a great variety of winter fun! Why not head on down the road and discover something new with your family this winter!

For more information on planning your Canmore winter getaway, visit Canmore Kananaskis and the  Winter Trip Planner.

And visit at:
twitter.com/tourismcanmore
facebook.com/tourismcanmore