Winter in Canmore is cold and snowy, sure — but that doesn’t mean staying indoors. It simply shifts the focus.
Sparkling, snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, creeks babbling under sheets of ice, and icy canyon walls turn familiar trails into entirely new experiences. Some of the most approachable winter hikes in Canmore and the surrounding Bow Valley lead to frozen waterfalls, offering dramatic scenery without clocking long mileage or braving technical terrain. If you’re planning outdoor activities in Canmore during the colder months and wondering what to do in Canmore in winter beyond skiing and snowboarding, these three hikes are a great place to start.
None of the hikes below are long or particularly difficult, even in the thick of winter, but preparation is still key. These trails are well-travelled enough that they're often packed down and icy, especially after weekends. Microspikes or other traction devices like Yaktrax are highly recommended, and trekking poles can help you keep balance on slick sections. If you don’t have winter gear (or don't want the hassle of packing it), you can rent traction devices, poles, and even snowshoes and ice skates from Gear Up Mountain Sports in Canmore or Kananaskis Outfitters in nearby Kananaskis Village.
1.Troll Falls
Length: 3.4 km/2.1 miles
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Troll Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Kananaskis Country year-round, and for good reason. The trail is short, mostly flat, and wide enough to comfortably accommodate families with young children, beginner hikers, and anyone easing into winter hiking. As a bonus, the trailhead (Troll Falls Trailhead Day Use) is easily accessible, even with heavy snow on the ground. In summer, it can feel busy, but winter means it’s often quieter and far more peaceful.
The gentle trail winds through a forest of spruce and pine, following a well-packed path that’s typically easy to navigate without snowshoes. Microspikes are helpful, though, especially after freeze-thaw cycles. The gentle grade means you’re never working too hard, a major bonus on colder days at higher elevation.
You’ll reach the first frozen waterfall relatively quickly, where water spills over rock faces that become sculpted with ice as winter settles in. Some hikers turn around here, but trust us, it’s worth continuing. Cross the wooden bridge over the creek and follow the trail farther upstream to reach Upper Troll Falls. This second waterfall adds extra payoff with minimal additional effort, making this adventure feel like two winter hikes in one.
2.Grotto Canyon
Length: 4.4 km/2.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 115 meters/377 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Grotto Canyon is a local favourite, and many would argue winter is its best season. Instead of hiking beside a creek, you walk directly over it once it’s frozen solid. Snow blankets the canyon floor, and towering limestone walls rise on both sides, creating a quiet, enclosed feeling that’s completely different from summer conditions.
The route is straightforward with minimal elevation gain, but traction is essential here. Ice is unavoidable (in winter, it's literally called the Grotto Canyon Icewalk), and microspikes are a must, ideally paired with hiking poles. The trail follows the frozen creek bed, passing through narrow canyon sections before opening up near the end, where frozen waterfalls form along the rock walls.
Between January and early March, look up; you may spot ice climbers scaling the canyon walls. Watching climbers work their way up vertical ice flows adds another layer of interest to the hike and highlights just how dramatic the canyon becomes in winter.
If you’re new to winter hiking or feeling unsure about conditions, several local outfitters offer guided Grotto Canyon tours. These include Discover Banff Tours and Banff Adventures.
3.Grassi Lakes
Length: 4.3 km/2.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 203 meters/666 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Grassi Lakes is one of Canmore’s most iconic hikes, and it doesn’t lose one ounce of its appeal once winter arrives. Located practically in town, this trail is extremely popular—and deservedly so. The reward comes at the top: two stunning turquoise spring-fed, glacial lakes that never freeze, even in the coldest months. Seeing that vivid water surrounded by snow and ice is especially impressive on dreary winter days.
The trail is well-travelled in all seasons, meaning it’s usually packed down enough that snowshoes aren’t necessary. Traction devices are still helpful, particularly on steeper or shaded sections that can ice over. The steady elevation gain is manageable for most hikers, and the trail options—loop around one or both lakes, or do it as a straightforward out-and-back—allow you to adjust your route based on comfort and conditions.
Make Grande Rockies Resort Your Winter Basecamp
After a day exploring frozen waterfalls and winter hikes, Grande Rockies Resort offers a comfortable home away from home in the heart of Canmore. The resort features a mix of condo-style suites and traditional hotel guest rooms, giving guests flexibility depending on travel style and budget.
The suites are ideal for families or longer stays, with separate bedrooms, full kitchens, fireplaces, and private balconies, while guest rooms in the annex building offer an economical alternative with two double beds, a mini fridge, a microwave, and updated bathrooms with rainfall showers.
Whether you’re building an entire trip around winter hikes or looking to add something different to your list of outdoor Canmore activities, these frozen waterfall trails show that winter is one of the best times to explore the area on foot. We'll see you soon.
