Runs
On the Run In...
On the Run in… Canmore
March 31, 2010By Bob Walker
If you’re the type of person to skip work for an epic run in the mountains or to daydream about a steep singletrack carving its way up to a high mountain pass, then you probably already know about Canmore and the legendary trail running in the Canadian Rockies. Located 100 kilometres west of Calgary, Canmore is nestled into the eastern edge of the mountain range and is surrounded on all sides by massive peaks reaching up to 2,400 metres.
For those wanting to push their hill climbing fitness, Grotto, Lady Macdonald, Ha Ling and Rundle all have steep, heart-pounding trails that claw their way up through the alpine to craggy summits with impressive views of Canmore and the surrounding Bow Valley. On Wednesday nights, the local running club meets downtown at the Ultimate Fit Centre for an evening run that anyone is invited to join. Races in the area worth checking out are the Canmore Challenge in July and the Rocky Mountain Half-Marathon in September.
A note of caution: There are bears that frequent the trails around Canmore so it’s a good idea to run with a friend, carry some bear spray and make some noise around blind corners.
The following three routes are taken from my trail-running guidebook, Mountain Running in the Canadian Rockies.
SHORT- 6.2K, 300 metres elevation gain
Bench Loop
The “Bench” is a fun place to run, and commonly used by Canmore locals. There are many little trails branching off all over the place that you can explore; yet it’s easy to stay on the main track if you want.
Start from the Cougar Creek parking area, at the top of the hill on the north side of the highway. From the Cougar Creek parking lot, cross over the creek and head upstream on a good trail following alongside the riverbank. When you come to the first trail junction just inside the forest, head left. The trail will initially climb before it starts to roller coaster up and down. Take your next right turn and follow the undulating trail east toward the Alpine Club. Above the Alpine clubhouse and just metres before the Grotto Mountain Trail, take a left on a higher traverse that heads back toward Cougar Creek where you started.
MEDIUM - 8K, 300 metres elevation gain
Highline Trail
The much-anticipated Highline Trail is one of Canmore’s newest additions and is popular with runners, hikers and mountain bikers. There is a trail that splits the full loop into two halves, giving multiple options for different-length runs. While the elevation gain is fairly modest, it happens in one relentless climb near the start of the trail.
Start from the off-leash dog park near Quarry Lake. From the east (left) side of the parking lot, follow a singletrack leading south toward Mount Lawrence Grassi. Pop up onto the power line road and take a left, going 1.5K to the eastern edge of the Highline Loop. Follow the trail as it climbs up 300 metres, traverses and loops back down to the power line road.
LONG -19-42K, 450 metres elevation gain
Rundle Riverside
The Rundle Riverside Trail is a superb, scenic trail that meanders from Canmore to Banff, between Bow River and the steep north face of Mount Rundle. If you’re planning to complete the trip back to Canmore, you can return the same way or take the Goat Creek trail returning on the south side of the mountain. From the Nordic Centre, get on the main thoroughfare, heading west. Follow signs directing you down Banff Trail. In 6.5K you’ll enter the forest and the trail will change into a smaller loamy version. Follow the twisting and turning trail as it contours the Bow River beneath the towering north face of Mount Rundle. In 19K, you’ll arrive at the Banff golf course and shortly Bow Falls. From here you can turn around, cruise into Banff or get onto the Goat Creek trail heading back to Canmore.
To Stay:
There are countless hotels and motels in and around town.
Hostel Bear 1002 Bow Valley Trail: Private and dorm-style rooms close to downtown
Rocky Mountain Ski Lodge 1711 Bow Valley Trail: Modern and clean rooms at a reasonable price
To Eat:
Flatbread Company 838 10th St.: The best pizza made with organic ingredients and baked in a stone oven.
The Bagel Co 830 8th St.: Expect it to be pretty busy in the mornings, but a great place for an on-the-run snack or hot beverage
Crazy Weed 1600 Railway Ave. : The place to go for a high end eating experience in a relaxed atmosphere
To Drink:
Zonas: Night-club style partying with a dance floor and large patio.
The Drake: The local pub with a wide selection of beer on tap and your typical pub-style food.
Communitea: New-age food with a wide selection of tea during the day and interesting musical talent during the evening.
Running Shops:
The Ultimate Fit Centre: Gear and advice for all of your running and yoga needs. 822 Main St.
Bob Walker’s book, Mountain Running in the Canadian Rockies, is available at www.mtnrunning.ca.
