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7 Unmatched Locations for Stargazing in Canmore — Because You Have to See to Believe!
As a night owl for as long as I can remember, one of my all-time favourite things to do in Alberta at night is to observe the starry sky. You can simply lie in your yard, chill by your balcony, or hop onto the back of your truck and look up—though it would be better if you had a telescope.
However, I’ve learned that finding the right location is just as important as having fancy equipment—in comes Canmore. It’s a small town located in the vast wildlands of Kananaskis Country, away from light pollution.
With that, you can enjoy stunning sights of stars, dark skies, and even the Northern Lights! To help you spot these breathtaking heavenly bodies, below are the best stargazing spots in Canmore!
Quarry Lake Park
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Address: Spray Lakes Rd
Contact details: +1 403-678-1500
Operating hours: Daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Rates (Parking):
- Peak season: CAD20 for up to 4 hours
- Off-peak season: CAD10 for up to 4 hours
Quarry Lake Park lets you hit two birds with one stone by offering beautiful natural landscapes along with stunning night skies. This way, you can start your day with a hike to discover mountain ranges and majestic wildlife and end it with a peaceful stargazing experience!
There’s just something therapeutic about seeing the orange sunset over the mountain peaks transform into a pitch-black sky dotted with sparkling stars. This sight, paired with good people and equally good conversations, is a match made in heaven!
The park is also one of the most accessible stargazing spots in Canmore because it’s easy to get to, and there are toilets available on site. Furthermore, the titular lake adds to the stargazing experience because it reflects the starry night sky!
Pro tip:
If you want to swim in the lake during your visit, schedule your stargazing visit in July and August, as these are the only months that permit swimming. However, keep in mind that the best months to stargaze here are from October to March, so weigh your priorities!
Lake Minnewanka
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Address: Improvement District No. 9
Contact details: +1 403-762-1550
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Rates:
- Parking:
- Day pass: CAD13.50
- Annual pass: CAD46.25
- Banff National Park Entrance:
- Adult: CAD10.50
- Senior: CAD9
- Youth (17 years and under): Free
Lake Minnewanka is one of the best stargazing spots in Banff National Park because of its scenic backdrop. It’s rare to see a stargazing spot with surroundings on par with the heavenly bodies, but the towering mountains and the lake itself are breathtaking in their own right.
This location is also beneficial for stargazing because the mountains block the surrounding lights, allowing for more visibility of the stars, even without telescopes! You’ll spot clusters of these heavenly bodies from this vantage point—get ready to feel minuscule.
If you time your visit right, you may also witness the famous Aurora Borealis! While you’re there, we recommend experiencing the entire park by trying activities like mountain biking, skiing, canoeing (if you visit during the summer), etc.
Pro tip:
You can also stargaze from the comfort of your own car. Simply put Lake Minnewanka Parking Lot as your destination on your navigation app, and you’re golden!
Spray Lakes Reservoir
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Address: West Side Rd, Kananaskis
Contact details: 403-678-0760
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Rates (Kananaskis Conservation Pass): CAD15 per day
Website
Stargazing at Spray Lakes Reservoir is like reaching the golden pot at the end of the rainbow. This is because before you can admire the cluster of stars and the scenic backdrop of the lake, you have to drive (or hike) through the rough terrain of Spray Lakes Trail.
The views are more than worth it, though, as the snowy peaks and mirror-like lake elevate the stargazing experience here. Furthermore, you can spot a wide variety of beautiful wildlife as you explore the park!
Spray Lakes Reservoir is also the perfect spot if you want a complete escape from your daily hustle and bustle—its remote location offers tranquility and isolation like no other!
Pro tip:
If you want to stay overnight amidst the shining stars, you can stay at the Spray Lakes West Campground! This place offers RVs, tent sites, and basic facilities like toilets and barbeque pits—plus, dogs are allowed!
Mount Engadine Lodge
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Address: 1 Mount Shark Rd
Contact details: +1 587-807-0570
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Cost: $$$
Website
If you’re not for the great outdoors or you just want to be more comfortable during your stargazing session, then Mount Engadine Lodge should be on your radar! This cosy wilderness resort offers cabins, glamping tents and yurts that allow you to sleep under the constellations!
During your stay here, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the light pollution-free sky of the Bow Valley, along with its towering trees and snowy alps. The palace offers various spots to admire the skies as well, including its balconies and the rooms themselves!
Pro tip:
Follow their official Instagram page to stay in the loop of their latest promotions!
Skybridge Glamping
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Address: 3 Flat Creek Rd
Contact details: +1 403-493-4191
Cost: $$
Website
Skybridge Glamping is a great stargazing spot if you want to stay in the wilderness but don’t want to compromise comfort. Combining luxury with nature, this place offers small yet modern cabins amidst towering trees and mountain ranges.
It’s also one of the best nature retreat spots in the country, as you’ll be away from civilisation! This makes stargazing much more special, especially considering you can do it from the comfort of your cabin’s front porch.
Pro tip:
You can also make a stopover by the Boundary Ranch along Kananaskis Trail to add horseback riding to your itinerary!
Basecamp Resorts Canmore
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Address: 1102 Bow Valley Trail
Contact details: +1 587-807-6266
Cost: $$$
Website
Basecamp Resorts Canmore is located in the heart of Canmore, so you’ll conveniently be near the town’s restaurants and stores during your stay. Aside from the charm of the small and quiet town, you can also catch glimpses of the surrounding mountain range!
However, its location is just the first of many reasons you should stay here—case in point, its rooftop jacuzzi! After all, how many places will allow you to gaze into constellations while soaking in a bathtub?
The rooms and suites here aren’t too bad too, as each one is modern, neat and well-maintained! Even the micro studios come with fully-fledged kitchens, where you can prepare your own meals!
Pro tip:
If you’re looking to experience exciting nightlife in Canmore, check out Georgetown Inn & Pub right across the street! It offers an authentic English pub atmosphere and, of course, refreshing beers on tap!
The Malcolm Hotel
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Address: 321 Spring Creek Dr
Contact details: +1 403-812-0680
Cost: $$$
Website
If you’re tired of outdoor excursions and want to admire the beautiful night sky comfortably, then The Malcolm Hotel should be right up your alley! This rustic 4-star hotel offers world-class modern suites equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfy stay.
Plus, it offers various spots that will allow you to view the stars at night, one of which is the outdoor swimming pool. Here, you can enjoy a warm dip and gaze at the surrounding trees and mountain vistas, along with the clusters of stars.
You can also expect elite customer service while you’re here, from the moment you enter their doors to your designated check-out time. Lastly, the hotel also features an in-house restaurant that offers superb international cuisine.
Pro tip:
Book your rooms online to check out their current promotions and potentially save more money on your trip! Furthermore, you can check their packages on their website to combine winter activities with your stay.
