Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park
Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park
Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park
4.5
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Created for the 1988 Winter Olympics, this ski area offers many expert trails.
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4.5
399 reviews
Excellent
285
Very good
85
Average
23
Poor
3
Terrible
3
Happy Traveler
27 contributions
Jan 2022 • Friends
If you are looking for epicentre of pretentious, unhelpful and arrogant people in Canada go no further. This place has them in spades.
From the moment we arrived till the moment we left I think one person out of about 200 acknowledged us or even said hello. This wasn’t really the experience we were used to in Canada or wanted being first time cross country skiers. And due to this experience, it will also be our last time.
There is an ‘information’ window that also sells the daily trail pass. The young guy working the window gave us zero ‘information’ and just took our money for the pass and said ‘there is a trail map there’.
We had no idea where to go and no one had any interest in showing us.
We have come to the conclusion that this place is where road cyclists gather in winter. In other words, a centre for arrogant douche bags in lycra to congregate when there is too much snow on the roads to cycle.
From the moment we arrived till the moment we left I think one person out of about 200 acknowledged us or even said hello. This wasn’t really the experience we were used to in Canada or wanted being first time cross country skiers. And due to this experience, it will also be our last time.
There is an ‘information’ window that also sells the daily trail pass. The young guy working the window gave us zero ‘information’ and just took our money for the pass and said ‘there is a trail map there’.
We had no idea where to go and no one had any interest in showing us.
We have come to the conclusion that this place is where road cyclists gather in winter. In other words, a centre for arrogant douche bags in lycra to congregate when there is too much snow on the roads to cycle.
Written 21 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Annette H
Calgary, Canada62 contributions
Oct 2021
We were there as registration and the Ultra run. No signs for anyone not familiar, it is just a hall that was used for Cross-country racing for the Olympics. Small cafeteria there just serving deep fried rubbish. Just seems to be a waste of space again, built for one purpose only. A much smaller Alpine effort would have been cheaper and a more friendly way to spend a day.
Written 25 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
couple4travell
Calgary, Canada15 contributions
Jan 2020
We were able to get an amazing day of snowshoeing in thanks to Canmore Nordic Centre, with lots of trails right beside the centre we were able to enjoy so much time in nature, enjoying this winter activity. We walked through a herd of deer which was so amazing, overlooked a beautiful view from a viewing point and (completely by user error) got just "Slightly" lost, but thanks to the friendly other people on the trails still made it back in time to return our snowshoes before the rental store closed. All-in-all an amazing day!
Written 30 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ken F
New Westminster, Canada1 contribution
Sept 2023 • Family
We were a group from bc, alberta, Ontario and Switzerland.
No one to my knowledge complained because we didn't want to bring the bride and groom down.
In my opinion you can't improve if no one tells you the truth.
No thaught was given for wemen of all ages wearing high heels.
Second,at the cost of the buffet it should include hot or at the least warm food.
As the father of the bride I personally was embarrassed that my family and friends would be served cool to cold food. Only the roast beef was warm on the outside edge.
This was the third daughter to wed and I can assure you the food was a decent temperature.
The rest of the venue was amazing and grateful for the herd of elk that came to bless the wedding.
No one to my knowledge complained because we didn't want to bring the bride and groom down.
In my opinion you can't improve if no one tells you the truth.
No thaught was given for wemen of all ages wearing high heels.
Second,at the cost of the buffet it should include hot or at the least warm food.
As the father of the bride I personally was embarrassed that my family and friends would be served cool to cold food. Only the roast beef was warm on the outside edge.
This was the third daughter to wed and I can assure you the food was a decent temperature.
The rest of the venue was amazing and grateful for the herd of elk that came to bless the wedding.
Written 27 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ady_JD
Welwyn Garden City, UK233 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
We came to do a hike , and took an easy route which was well marked, then ate at the restaurant when we came back. We walked up to the centre from town centre, which was a lovely walk. Food was nice with generous portions, and their are exhibits from the olympics all around, which make it a very interesting place. Only thing that was missing was bike hire at the location.
Written 15 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Louise Masin Sattler
Los Angeles, CA1,547 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
The Nordic Centre Provincial Park at Canmore offers a unique look at the training of Olympic athletes - particularly Nordic racing. The area is beautiful and obviously steeped in teaching visitors about the rich Olympic history of the sport and the venue. We loved it there- and the peanut butter cookie from the snack bar was AWESOME!
Written 3 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jenna_76
Christchurch, New Zealand11 contributions
Coming from New Zealand, mountain biking in Canmore WAS going to be one of our trip highlights. Unfortunately renting bikes from Trailsports located right at the Nordic Centre was the low and left us extremely disappointed. Being shoulder season, we didn't anticipate it being busy (and it wasn't) - when we arrived there were many bikes out front but we were told there weren't any and to wait half an hour. Luckily someone came in and said they had just returned their bikes, so we didn't have to wait. Filled out info on rental computer and got our bike gear on. When we came back we paid for an hour and after it was rung thorugh were told we had to leave a passport or ID, so although he knew we had gone to get changed we had to go back to car for our ID. The downside is we didn't know this runaround was all cutting into our hour's rental. Finally on the bikes ,we TRIED to ask him for directions to the track start and were told 'Go Up' and it would be so simple to follow the track we wanted - they didn't have any maps left so we hoped this was the case. After pedalling around 5-10 minutes we had to return because 'Up' wasn't really specific enough! Finally found the path start but with so many tracks that overlap and really poor marking it was IMPOSSIBLE to follow one track so we just had fun pedaling around. With no map and the initial part being lost we got back 15 minutes late, and were told to pay another hour, that there are no exceptions and we should have read a sign by the computer to know this. We tried to talk to the clerk, but he was insistent it was actually 25 minutes and we were lying, (we got to pay for the 10 minutes confusion at beginning as part of our rental!). I didn't come on vacation to argue so we paid, but overall it was his really surly, downright unhelpful nature from the minute we walked in which ruined our time. He just seemed like he did not want to be there and was completely miserable, so wanted to ensure we had a horrible time as well. I recommend you rent bikes ANYWHERE else, you can get the same price or better with less hassle!!
Written 27 October 2010
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SavvyTraveller_10
Edmonton AB39 contributions
We enjoyed a wonderful afternoon at the Nordic centre tobaggan hill. The setting is absolutely amazing with a nicely groomed hill, surrounded by the majestic mountains. There are a combination of tobagganing hills, some with jumps. Tip...stop at Canadian Tire in Canmore to pick up so some sleds. Excellent value as its free to use the hill.
Written 20 February 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RevfromCA
Sacramento, CA215 contributions
May 2014 • Couples
Some of the specified parking lots are small but there seems to be plenty of free on street parking available anyway. We found the free local maps very helpful as the trails and streets are well marked. Here are some of our favorite trails and sites.
For those who like to check out beautiful vacation homes, walk along both sides of the Bow River that fan out from Bridge Rd (turns into 8th Av to the north toward downtown Canmore, and into Rundle Rd to the south that leads up to the Nordic Center). Most of these homes do not have backyard fences and their properties go right up to the paved trails, so its very easy to check out the houses.
One of the most scenic spots is located on the west side of the Bow River, higher up so you get a great 180 degree view of the entire Bow Valley with mountains all around. To reach this spot with a relatively easy 1/2 mile hike, start at the west side of the bridge (over the Bow River) and head north. After about 1/2 mile you will see a small power plant on the left side (and a bridge crossing up ahead). Take the stairway (146 steps, wood beams provide easy but steep stairs up) to your left just in front of the power plant. At the top of these stairs, take the dirt/gravel trail to your right (north). It winds upward (watch out for bikers coming from either direction!) and leads very shortly to an incredible open bluff with incredible views. Caution! This open bluff has dangerous cliffs with no rails, fences, or even warning signs! Use extreme caution with young kids! Beautiful spot for photos.
An easier way to reach this same scenic bluff is to drive up Three Sisters Drive (4th right turn after crossing bridge heading west away from downtown Canmore and going up toward the Nordic Center). Drive all the way up to the end and park along the curb (be careful not to block any driveways!). Walk north toward the end of the paved road. You will see a gate blocking entrance to a private driveway (which is gravel). However, a sign will say this upper private driveway is open to pedestrians and bikers. Head down this gravel driveway but when it curves downward to the right, be sure to go straight ahead. This connects to to the top of the stairs described above. Continue straight past the stairs to the scenic bluff. This shorter access made it easy for me to carry my sack lunch, a folding camp chair, and my backpack that had my binocs, camera, tripod, etc.
More on Canmore in general -
Although there are many incredible sites in nearby Banff and Jasper, we found the local sites and hiking around Canmore were also excellent without having to pay the park entrance fees. We would recommend you check out the hiking trails along the Bow River, as well as the JK bakery (2 locations) and the Nutter's Bulk and Natural Food store (900A Railway Ave, 403.678.3335) that has a huge assortment of snack foods (all sorts of crackers, nuts, dried fruits, dark chocolate covered nuts and fruits, even many flavors of Jelly Bellies!) that you can buy as much or as little of as you like. We went there several times during our two weeks in Canmore.
Also, its worth taking a short drive (10 minutes?) up the gravel/dirt road (road 742) just beyond the Canmore Nordic Centre (its the continuation of Spray Lakes Rd). I drove on this road on 5/20/14 in a compact rental car and the road condition was fine (drove at about 40km/hour). This short drive takes you up to a beautiful mountain pass where you can look down at the town of Canmore (to the east), look up at Ha Ling Peak (to the south), and see a beautiful lake to the west. This road (742) extends for a long ways and eventually connects to 40, but I only drove a short ways from Canmore. I have read and heard that this long drive on 742 is very scenic passing a number of lakes among the mountains.
For those who like to check out beautiful vacation homes, walk along both sides of the Bow River that fan out from Bridge Rd (turns into 8th Av to the north toward downtown Canmore, and into Rundle Rd to the south that leads up to the Nordic Center). Most of these homes do not have backyard fences and their properties go right up to the paved trails, so its very easy to check out the houses.
One of the most scenic spots is located on the west side of the Bow River, higher up so you get a great 180 degree view of the entire Bow Valley with mountains all around. To reach this spot with a relatively easy 1/2 mile hike, start at the west side of the bridge (over the Bow River) and head north. After about 1/2 mile you will see a small power plant on the left side (and a bridge crossing up ahead). Take the stairway (146 steps, wood beams provide easy but steep stairs up) to your left just in front of the power plant. At the top of these stairs, take the dirt/gravel trail to your right (north). It winds upward (watch out for bikers coming from either direction!) and leads very shortly to an incredible open bluff with incredible views. Caution! This open bluff has dangerous cliffs with no rails, fences, or even warning signs! Use extreme caution with young kids! Beautiful spot for photos.
An easier way to reach this same scenic bluff is to drive up Three Sisters Drive (4th right turn after crossing bridge heading west away from downtown Canmore and going up toward the Nordic Center). Drive all the way up to the end and park along the curb (be careful not to block any driveways!). Walk north toward the end of the paved road. You will see a gate blocking entrance to a private driveway (which is gravel). However, a sign will say this upper private driveway is open to pedestrians and bikers. Head down this gravel driveway but when it curves downward to the right, be sure to go straight ahead. This connects to to the top of the stairs described above. Continue straight past the stairs to the scenic bluff. This shorter access made it easy for me to carry my sack lunch, a folding camp chair, and my backpack that had my binocs, camera, tripod, etc.
More on Canmore in general -
Although there are many incredible sites in nearby Banff and Jasper, we found the local sites and hiking around Canmore were also excellent without having to pay the park entrance fees. We would recommend you check out the hiking trails along the Bow River, as well as the JK bakery (2 locations) and the Nutter's Bulk and Natural Food store (900A Railway Ave, 403.678.3335) that has a huge assortment of snack foods (all sorts of crackers, nuts, dried fruits, dark chocolate covered nuts and fruits, even many flavors of Jelly Bellies!) that you can buy as much or as little of as you like. We went there several times during our two weeks in Canmore.
Also, its worth taking a short drive (10 minutes?) up the gravel/dirt road (road 742) just beyond the Canmore Nordic Centre (its the continuation of Spray Lakes Rd). I drove on this road on 5/20/14 in a compact rental car and the road condition was fine (drove at about 40km/hour). This short drive takes you up to a beautiful mountain pass where you can look down at the town of Canmore (to the east), look up at Ha Ling Peak (to the south), and see a beautiful lake to the west. This road (742) extends for a long ways and eventually connects to 40, but I only drove a short ways from Canmore. I have read and heard that this long drive on 742 is very scenic passing a number of lakes among the mountains.
Written 21 May 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Selene J
Red Deer, Canada3 contributions
Sept 2016 • Couples
I had my wedding at the Nordic Centre on September 3, 2016 in the Bill Warren Training Centre. The view was amazing and that's what sold us on this venue.
It was a great day. However, I regret not tasting the food before the wedding day. I was extremely disappointed with the quality of the food. We paid thousands of dollars to have uncooked rice. The catering staff seemed very inexperienced. I repeatedly tried to get in touch with the manager of Mountain Events Catering to discuss but I have not been contacted yet. Because of my experience, I would not recommend this venue. It is very costly for what you get. A beautiful place but not for a wedding.
It was a great day. However, I regret not tasting the food before the wedding day. I was extremely disappointed with the quality of the food. We paid thousands of dollars to have uncooked rice. The catering staff seemed very inexperienced. I repeatedly tried to get in touch with the manager of Mountain Events Catering to discuss but I have not been contacted yet. Because of my experience, I would not recommend this venue. It is very costly for what you get. A beautiful place but not for a wedding.
Written 7 December 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are visiting in mid February and will have a 1.5 year old with us. Just wondering what your recommendations would be for either snowshoeing or CC Skiing trails. We've never tried CC but are fit and willing to try. Not sure what it's like with a baby on your back. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thank you
Written 28 January 2019
There is something called a pulk and it attaches around your waist and you can pull your child when you CC ski.
You can rent that from the nordic center too.
Written 21 February 2019
Gidday. I would like to ask what activities we could do in mid-April ? We'd love to x-country ski but it may be too late in the season for that? Is there anything else you can suggest at the Nordic Centre ? thanks. Barbara.
Written 1 February 2018
Thanks for that ...good to know its a 'good season' too !!
Written 1 March 2018
Being from the South, we always worry about lack of snow in March. Am I safe making reservations the 3rd week of March?
I'd appreciate any advice!
Mary Ann
Written 18 September 2017
It's pretty safe to have snow in the Rockies in March. In addition, they make artificial snow for the trails for cross country skiing if it should ever not snow. I have lived in Canmore for 20 years. And so far, there has always been snow in March.
Written 16 October 2017
Are bike trails family friendly in certain sections or loops? My kids are just 6 and 4 and ride single geared bikes.
Thanks
Written 12 August 2017
The trails marked Green are kid friendly. Some of the Green paths are paved and mostly flat. You will find maps inside the visitor centre.
Written 12 August 2017
Melman1972
Mirabel, Canada
peut on louer des ski de fond pour adulte et enfant au nordic center ?
Written 24 February 2015
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