Have a Hygge October in Canmore

With the temperature dropping and the crowds dispersing we may argue that October – dubbed ‘shoulder season’- is the best time to visit Canmore. The valley is awash with gold as though Midas himself touched each larch tree and leaf one at a time, the downtown is quiet, and the temperatures are perfect for hiking and exploring. This time of year is a great time to partake in hygge living. What is ‘hygge’ – it is a Danish term meaning “A quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality which brings about a feeling of contentment or well-being”. We don’t know about you… but this sounds like exactly what we are in search of!

Indulge in cozy dining

There are various dining options downtown, but when we think of cozy hygge dining experiences, we immediately think of Paintbox Lodge, Tapas Canmore, Where the Buffalo Roam Saloon, and The Trough. With new, autumn menus being released you will find all the comfort food you are looking for and can enjoy an intimate dining experience at each of these locations. While these restaurants each have their own style of dining, one common theme exists. These foodie hotspots have delicious menus, are nestled within downtown, and embody a hygge atmosphere.

Take a larch tree hike

In the summertime, larch trees look very much like other coniferous trees, but the cold and blustery fall bring about a change, turning the needles to gold. You can find a handful of these gorgeous trees scattered throughout town, but most of them live in the alpine so you may need to go on a hunt. Quick and easy local larch hikes include Chester Lake and Mt Lorette Ponds. Bundle up, pack a picnic, and head out in search of gold!

Experience the local arts and culture scene

Enjoy a laugh, or five at the Canmore Improv Festival hosted at artsPlace Canmore from October 10th to 12th. Grab a friend, a pint, a seat and buckle up because the hilarious acts at the Canmore Improv Festival may just knock you right out of your chair!

If improv isn’t your thing, you can enjoy the local arts and culture scene in peace while you peruse the local art galleries, meet with the artists, and enjoy live performances. The majority of galleries are all within downtown, and you can easily stroll from place to place. 

Enjoy some ‘me’ time

What better place to enjoy hygge-esque stillness than quiet and quaint Canmore, Alberta? With a variety of options from massage parlours (Etana Wellness) to yoga (Canmore Hot Yoga) and even a new studio in town with a variety of classes (BooTy). Canmore offers a chance to rest, relax, and reconnect with yourself and others who are nourishing their bodies and minds in the mountains. 

Take a Sunday drive

You can cruise through town, up to the Canmore Nordic Centre and around to Three Sisters. Early autumn is a busy time for animals. With such vibrant scenery, the drive itself can be the destination. Keep your eyes peeled! It’s elk mating season, and the bears are frantically gorging themselves in preparation for hibernation. Keep the window cracked; you may be able to hear the male elk bugling! Remember to observe all animals from a safe distance, and remain inside your vehicle.

Learn a new skill 

There are so many amazing things to do and see around town, you might not have time to fit it all in. If you are a busybody and enjoy a packed schedule artsPlace, Cyan, Paintbox Lodge, and GoodEarth Coffee House all offer classes so you add a new skill to your roster. Enjoy salsa dancing, cooking, pottery, or simply relax and indulge in hygge living, all within the downtown core!