Just because the rafts are packed away for the season doesn’t mean the adventure has to stop. Fall in Canmore is one of the most underrated times to explore the mountains — cooler air, golden larches, and quieter trails make it the perfect season for a weekend getaway.

If you’re missing the rush of the river, we’ve got the next best thing: a weekend blend of hiking and hot springs that channels the same energy — movement, nature, and that sense of “earned relaxation.” Here’s your guide to the ultimate off-season weekend for river lovers.

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Day 1: Hit the Trail – Hikes We Love Near Canmore

Start your weekend with some elevation gain and stunning views. Here are a few local hikes perfect for October (just bring layers and check trail conditions before heading out):

1. Grassi Lakes

• Distance: 4 km round trip
  
• Time: 1–2 hours
  
• Why it’s great: A quick but rewarding hike with turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and panoramic views over Canmore. Great for a relaxed afternoon walk.
  

2. Ha Ling Peak

• Distance: 7.2 km round trip
  
• Time: 3–4 hours
  
• Why it’s great: Iconic and challenging — the trail has been updated and is a solid workout with epic views from the summit. Perfect for anyone missing the physicality of paddling.
  

3. Grotto Canyon Trail

• Distance: ~4.4 km round trip
  
• Vibe: Easy to moderate, mysterious, and super cool (literally).
  
• Why we love it: This unique hike takes you through a narrow limestone canyon with ancient Indigenous pictographs, little waterfalls, and fun rocky terrain. In late fall, it can get icy — so bring traction if temps are low.
  

Local tip: Look carefully for the pictographs — they’re faded but worth spotting. Great hike for families, casual adventurers, or anyone still sore from Ha Ling.

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Day 2: Soak and Recover – Hot Springs to Visit

After a big hike, nothing beats a good soak. Here are a few hot springs to build into your itinerary:

1. Banff Upper Hot Springs

• Location: Just outside the Banff townsite
  
• Why go: Classic mountain views, steamy pools, and easy access after a hike in the national park. Go early or late to avoid crowds.
  

2. Kananaskis Nordic Spa (Adults only)

• Location: Kananaskis Village (about 45 mins from Canmore)
  
• Why go: A luxurious hydrotherapy experience with hot, cold, and rest cycles. Not natural hot springs, but incredibly rejuvenating after a chilly hike.
  

3. Fairmont Hot Springs (Farther afield)

• Location: Columbia Valley (about 2.5 hrs from Canmore)
  
• Why go: If you’re making a weekend road trip out of it, this spot offers stunning mountain scenery and classic resort-style soaking.
  

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Bonus: Where to Stay

Whether you’re after rustic charm or luxury comfort, Canmore has a stay for every kind of adventurer:

• Budget-friendly: Canmore Downtown Hostel, HI Canmore Alpine Club
  
• Mid-range: Basecamp Lodge, Rocky Mountain Ski Lodge
  
• Luxury: Malcolm Hotel, Falcon Crest Lodge
  

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We get it — there’s nothing quite like paddling down the Bow or navigating rapids in Kananaskis. But fall in Canmore has its own kind of magic. With mountain hikes, peaceful forests, and the bliss of a hot soak after a long day outside, this season is about reconnecting with the natural world in a slower, more intentional way.

Keep your eyes on our socials and website to stay tuned as we prep for another epic season on the water — and until then, we’ll see you on the trails (or in the tub).

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Tag us in your off-season adventures!

Whether you’re climbing peaks, soaking in hot springs, or just enjoying the fall views, we’d love to see it. Use #CanadianRockiesRafting and keep the river spirit alive all year long.