Canmore Hidden Trails Hike: Waterfalls & Mountain Lakes

Local trails reveal what most Canmore visitors miss: waterfalls tucked into the wilderness and views from the ridges above town.

A three-hour guided hike in Canmore along easy to moderate trails with an elevation gain of approximately 150 meters, led by a professional guide carrying bear spray. You'll discover hidden waterfalls and mountain lakes while learning about the local ecosystem, geology and history. The route suits anyone with moderate fitness. Hiking poles are available on request.

Step-by-step itinerary

Guided hike to hidden waterfalls

• Meet professional guide in Canmore
• Hike local trails to hidden waterfalls
• Explore mountain lakes and viewpoints
• Learn about local ecosystem and history
• Return with memories and appreciation

The experience

Three hours on Canmore's local trails means you cover ground without rushing, stopping at hidden waterfalls and lesser-known viewpoints that don't show up on the standard tourist loop. The elevation gain of approximately 150 meters is steady but manageable, and the professional guide navigates the terrain while sharing what makes these trails worth the detour: the geology, the wildlife patterns, the history layered into the landscape. You'll move through mountain trails that wind through town edges into quieter wilderness, the kind of place where the crowds thin out fast.

The guide carries bear spray as standard, and hiking poles are yours to use if you want them: a small detail that changes how your knees feel on the descent. You're learning as you walk: why the waterfalls run where they do, what the rock formations tell you about the valley, how the local ecosystem works. This isn't a lecture delivered at viewpoints. It's the guide pointing things out as you encounter them, so the information sticks because you're seeing it in place.

What’s included

• Professional guide with bear spray.
• hiking poles available on request.
• three hours of guided hiking through Canmore's local trails to hidden waterfalls and mountain lakes.
• instruction on local ecosystem, geology and history as you walk.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to FridayDepartures at 09:00, 10:00 and 14:30

AgesAdult (8 to 90 years) · Under 8: can't be included in the booking

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “Meet your guide outside the main doors. They will have a clipboard and a smile. Please arrive 10mins before departure for waivers and setup. There is free parking at the meeting location.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Banff & Canmore Tours

Is this one for you?The hike starts from a trailhead accessible by public transit, so you don't need a rental car or a ride from town. That matters if you're staying in Canmore without wheels or want to keep the day simple. You book the tour, take the bus, and meet the guide at the trail.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

7 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

What's the actual elevation gain on this Canmore hike?

The elevation gain is approximately 150 meters over the three hours, spread across easy to moderate terrain. It's a steady climb, not steep, and the pace is set so you can manage it while stopping to look at the waterfalls and take in the views.

Do I need my own hiking boots and gear, or is anything provided?

Hiking poles are available on request, so bring them or ask for them when you meet the guide. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. The trails are uneven and wet near the waterfalls. The guide provides bear spray as part of the standard setup.

What exactly are the hidden waterfalls like when you reach them?

The tour is built around discovering hidden waterfalls along the local trails. The guide knows where they are and how to reach them safely. You'll see mountain lakes as well, all part of the lesser-known corners of Canmore that the guide reveals as you hike.

Is this hike doable if I'm staying in downtown Canmore without a car?

Public transportation options are available nearby, so you can reach the trailhead without a rental. Confirm the exact meeting point and transit route when you book, so you know how to get there from your accommodation.

How much of the hike is steep, and how much is flat walking?

The trails are easy to moderate overall, with the 150-meter elevation gain distributed across the three hours rather than concentrated in one steep section. You'll have flat stretches along the trails and viewpoint stops where the terrain levels out.