Canmore’s past as a coal mining town was the perfect launch pad for it to become a world-class mountain bike destination. Who knew that old roads and path used to transport coal to the CP rail line would reemerge decades later as arteries to some of the best single-track rides around. Canmore is grouped in with some of the top mountain bike destinations in the world like Moab, Fruita, Whistler, as well as Sedona, and for good reason.
For years, it wasn’t the easiest journey for trail users in Canmore, with complex boundaries that litter the valley floor for wildlife migration, massive developments, and multiple park boundaries. Not to mention no real trail governing body, and, of course, diverse user group conflicts.
Luckily, Canmore has made some very big progress in the past few years and has, what seems to be, a very good understanding and strategy for the future. Organizations like Friends of Kananaskis, CAMBA, and CTA are all working closely together with the common goal of making sure we have a bright future when it comes to trails in Canmore.
Despite the complexity, Canmore boasts some of the most diverse trails you can find. With blue, green, and black trails for mountain biking on all sides of the valley, paved and dirt pathways for those learning the ropes, and long full-day epic adventures to Banff or into the back country, this little mountain town has something for riders of all ability and views that make it world-class, even on a bad day.
With three locally owned and operated bike shops, three bike rental outlets, lots of accommodations, amazing coffee shops, and two craft breweries, Canmore is embracing the full meal deal when it comes to bike culture. Canmore hosts major mountain bike events, like Canada Cups, Provincials Championships, 24 Hours of Adrenalin, Rundle’s Revenge, a multitude of Grizzly Events, and this year, for the first time, Canmore will be home to a three-day mountain bike festival. The Plaid Goat Festival is set to run from June 23-25 and bring in huge industry brands to celebrate mountain biking in Canmore.
Thanks to technology, Canmore’s trails are no longer tough to find; using an app like Trail-forks is the modern-day guidebook that can keep you on track. This free resource works in all major places that you may travel to ride in and it works great for trail runners, as well.
Weather you’re looking to have a basic, fun family bike ride and picnic, or hit the single-track hard, you’re in good hands in this little mountain town. Hope to see you out on the trails.
