The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to change the way we plan gatherings on holidays, but it doesn’t mean the get-together holiday needs to remain canceled. We might not be gathering with all of our farthest-flung relatives, but there’s still room for a low-key celebration. Rental accommodation for just a family isn’t any less safe than the same family staying home, and Canmore is still welcoming visitors safely. Many restaurants remain open, albeit with somewhat more limited capacity and within the restrictions of the latest provincial COVID policies. So run off a copy of your proof of vaccination and plan your tiny Christmas gathering around Downtown Canmore!
The changing seasons results in reduced crowds, which makes for easier access to dining. Chilly day? Take in some piping hot ramen at Chef’s Studio Japan or Ramen Arashi. Get your protein fix at Gaucho Brazilian Barbeque. Class it up at Murrietta’s, or try out chef Blake Flann’s newest project, 4296 – which is nestled right across from Canmore’s most prominent pub, the Grizzly Paw.
While you’re here, take in some flavours beyond just the Christmas meal. Locals love the colder seasons mostly because of the reduced numbers of visitors and bugs. But Canmore never properly slows down, and for good reason: there’s beauty to be had year-round. Canmore is uncommonly gorgeous in the winter, with Downtown Canmore decorated in a festive fashion, and many shops taking part in getting into the festive spirit. Of course, the winter nights are chilly, but some winter days give up fall-like warmth, even with intermittent sun and dramatic, fast-moving clouds. The river pathways along the Bow, most within a couple blocks’ walk from downtown, give views of the river at its seasonal lowest.
Opportunities abound for wildlife viewing, with elk especially active in the valley at this time of year. Winter is hibernation season for the bears, but you’ll still find decent size herds of elk gathering in several easily accessible spots. The Three Sisters river pathway, south from downtown, is one of the best viewing spots, with long lines of sight to help ensure you maintain your distance from possessive and aggressive males. These paths are easily walked, can be travelled by bike by renting some cruisers from Rebound Cycle, or treat yourself to a new ride at the Bicycle Cafe, and make the going a little quicker. Not into self-direction? Check-in with Tour Canmore. And of course, always view wildlife safely, and from an appropriate distance.
Maybe you want to take a bit of the mountain flavour to your prairie home? Most galleries in Canmore cater to western and mountain styles, from the landscapes and mixed-media art of the Avens Gallery to the abstractions of “Heartscapes” at Elevation Gallery. Or find something smaller, maybe a little more practical, at Project A or Alberta’s Own. If it’s true likenesses you’re after, find them in the stunning photographic works at the Brandon T. Brown or All in the Wild galleries. Maybe knowledge is your currency? Find it all out at the Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre, and discover the hardscrabble coal-mining history of this beautiful spot.
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