Mountains above the Bow Valley near Banff and Canmore

Hotels in Canmore: the smart base for Banff

Canmore sits just outside Banff National Park, about 20–25 minutes from Banff town, with more hotels and condos and often lower prices.

Photo: Adam Bishop, CC BY-SA 4.0

By HotelMountains editors · Updated

Canmore lies in the Bow Valley just east of the Banff National Park gates. Many travelers base themselves here for the wider choice of hotels and condos with kitchens, then drive into the park each day.

Our top pick: Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Shuttle from Banff or Canmore

Lakes without driving

Several tours pick up in Canmore as well as Banff, which saves the early drive and the parking at Lake Louise.

Canmore pickup

Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Shuttle from Banff or Canmore

Transport with time at each lake. 4.7/5 from nearly 400 reviews.

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Lake Louise, Moraine, Emerald Lake and Johnston Canyon

4.8/5 from over 2,200 reviews.

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Why book online

  • Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
  • Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
  • Mobile ticket on your phone
  • Reviews from verified travelers

Check hotel prices in Canmore

Frequently asked questions

Is it better to stay in Canmore or Banff?

Banff puts you inside the park and within walking distance of everything in town. Canmore usually costs less, has more condos for families and is only 20–25 minutes away by car.

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