Summer in the Canadian Rockies never feels quite long enough.

August brings long days, warm afternoons and plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore before the season begins to change. Whether you’re visiting Canmore for a Rocky Mountain getaway or looking to squeeze a little more adventure out of summer, there’s still plenty of time to make some unforgettable memories.

From whitewater rapids and mountain trails to scenic car rides and relaxing afternoons downtown, here are seven things to do in Canmore in August before summer ends.

1. Experience Whitewater Rafting in the Canadian Rockies

If there’s one way to make the most of a summer day in the Rockies, it’s getting out on the river.

Whitewater Rafting offers something for everyone.  Plus, it’s an adventure everyone can do together.  

Whether you’re looking for something suitable for families, first-time rafters or looking for a fun introduction to whitewater, the Kananaskis Whitewater tour offers exciting Class II–III rapids surrounded by beautiful Rocky Mountain scenery.

Looking for something a little bigger? The Horseshoe Canyon adventure takes things up a notch with Class II–IV whitewater.  As you venture on a remote stretch of the Bow River offering two optional cliff-jumping opportunities, this tour will have your heart pumping.

Want something in the middle? The Kananaskis Xtreme puts a twist on your Whitewater Rafting experience.  It’s all about playing with the whitewater, not just punching through each wave.  It’s a different way to experience the thrill of whitewater.

Whichever adventure you choose, rafting is a pretty unforgettable way to finish off summer in the mountains.

2. Discover What’s Beneath the Mountains

Some of Canmore’s best adventures aren’t above ground.

Explore the underground world beneath Grotto Mountain with a guided caving adventure through Rat’s Nest Cave. Crawl, climb and explore through natural passages while discovering a completely different side of the Canadian Rockies.

It’s an adventurous experience that makes a great addition to an August trip.

3. Hit the Trails

You can’t talk about summer in Canmore without talking about hiking.

Surrounded by mountains in every direction, Canmore offers everything from relaxing riverside walks to challenging full-day hikes with incredible viewpoints.

Choose a trail that suits your experience level. Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks and check current trail conditions and wildlife advisories before heading out.

Be sure you don’t forget the camera.  The views around here have a habit of making you stop more often than expected.

4. See the Rockies from Above 

You’ve explored the mountains from the ground, now see them from an entirely different perspective.

A helicopter tour offers an unforgettable way to take in the scale and beauty of the Canadian Rockies.  Soar above the rugged mountain peaks, over the alpine valleys, and past glaciers and turquoise lakes.

With a variety of flight options available in the area, a helicopter tour can easily fit into your Canmore itinerary.  Whether you’re looking for a quick scenic flight or a longer mountain experience there are options available.

For an especially memorable day, pair a morning on the river with an afternoon in the air and experience the Rockies from two completely different perspectives.

5. Explore the Rockies on Horseback 

Slow things down and experience the mountains the old-fashioned way with a horseback riding adventure.

Guided trail rides bring you through pine forests, valleys and mountain landscapes. It gives you the chance to experience the area’s western roots.

Whether you’re climbing into the saddle for the first time or you’re an experienced rider, there are options for a variety of experience levels and trip lengths.

It’s a classic Rocky Mountain experience.  A great way to spend one of those final warm summer days outside.

6. Take a Scenic Drive Through Kananaskis

Sometimes the adventure is simply seeing where the road takes you.

Head into Kananaskis Country for an afternoon of mountain views, picnic stops and scenic viewpoints. Keep your eyes open along the way as wildlife sightings are always possible in the Rockies.

Remember to give wildlife plenty of space, never feed animals and enjoy any sightings from a safe distance.

7. Slow Things Down in Downtown Canmore

After a day of exploring, give yourself some time to enjoy Canmore itself.

Walk along Main Street, browse the local shops, grab an ice cream, find a sunny patio or settle in for dinner surrounded by mountain views.

It’s the perfect way to finish a busy summer day and start planning tomorrow’s next adventure.

Make the Most of Summer in Canmore

August might mean summer is starting to wind down, but there’s still plenty of adventure left in the Canadian Rockies.

Whether you’re paddling through whitewater, exploring beneath a mountain, hiking to a viewpoint or simply enjoying an afternoon downtown, Canmore offers countless ways to squeeze a little more out of the season.

So, what are you waiting for?  Summer isn’t over.  Try something new and make the most of those summer days in the mountains.