Mountains, Lakes, Rivers and Wildlife: Don’t Miss Canmore, A Real Photography Powerhouse
Hey fellow adventurers! If you’re racing through Alberta to get a shot of Banff, Lake Louise, or Moraine Lake, I’m here to tell you—slow down! Canmore is the Canadian Rockies’ best-kept secret, and you don’t want to pass it by. Not only does it offer a more laid-back vibe (and wallet-friendly prices) than Banff, it’s a charming base from which to explore the region’s iconic landscapes. Think stunning mountain vistas, gritty mining history, and echoes of the Wild West—all rolled into one photogenic package.
For mountain lovers, Canmore is a dream come true. Just look up and you’ll see the famous Three Sisters—arguably one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the Rockies. Ha Ling Peak rises dramatically beside Ehagay Nakoda and Ship’s Prow, while the majestic Mount Rundle stands guard to the west. These peaks aren’t just breathtaking—they’re begging to be photographed at sunrise, sunset, or whenever dramatic clouds roll through.
The Bow River meanders through town, offering peaceful scenes of emerald green water framed by evergreens and rugged cliffs. Bring your wide-angle lens to catch those mirror-like reflections of the mountains, especially when the light turns golden. And don’t forget the nearby lakes, which shimmer in the early morning and glow as dusk settles in—perfect for capturing those tranquil moments that make your portfolio pop.
If you’re passionate about wildlife photography, Canmore won’t disappoint. Keep your eyes peeled for elk and deer grazing in the meadows, or, if you’re lucky, spot a bear ambling through the woods. Patience pays off here; the Rockies’ untamed creatures offer thrilling opportunities for unforgettable shots. Whether you prefer sweeping panoramas, intimate wildlife portraits, or the vibrant details of local flora, Canmore delivers a bounty of scenes for every shutterbug.
Ready to discover the prime photography spots? Pack your gear and get inspired—Canmore is waiting! Here are my 5 favorite locations.
Quarry Lake
Quarry Lake is a popular, picturesque recreation spot not more than 10 minutes from downtown Canmore. Transformed from an old coal mine into a beautiful park with stunning mountain views, it is a perfect venue for photography. Visitors are greeted with a deep, cold glacier-fed lake, pay parking and bathroom facilities. It’s a beautiful photo spot with grand views of the mountains surrounding the lake.
This is a great sunrise location as the peaks West of the lake catch the rising sun; and calm lake waters will cast a beautiful reflection. While the views are spectacular all year, the changing colors and long shadows of fall create truly special conditions.
There is a 1 kilometer path around the lake offering multiple viewpoints towards Ha Ling Peak and Mount Rundle. From the far end of the lake the view extends over the Bow River Valley towards the eastern Mountain range.
Rundle Forebay: A Hidden Gem for Sunrise
When you’re exploring Canmore for epic sunrise shots, most will point you towards the popular Quarry Lake, which is spectacular. But if you venture just a little further down the road, you’ll find Rundle Forebay—a humble stop with a big payoff for landscape photographers. Situated right in front of Canmore’s drinking water reservoir, this spot offers a peaceful setting with easy access and plenty of room to set up your gear.
The true highlight here is the sweeping view of Ha Ling Peak and its neighboring summits. As the first light hits the mountains, you’ll be treated to dramatic shadows and vibrant colors that change minute by minute. While the iconic Three Sisters are mostly hidden from this vantage point (making them less ideal subjects for your sunrise compositions), the unobstructed panorama from Rundle Forebay more than makes up for it. It’s a place where you can soak in the quiet morning air and capture those magical moments before the world fully wakes up.
Grassi Lakes: A Photographer’s Gem
A few kilometers up the road from Rundle Forebay is the start of the Grassi Lakes hike, an experience that’s as accessible as it is breathtaking. The trail, an easy-going 1.7 kilometers, winds gently upwards, making it perfect for both seasoned hikers and families looking for a leisurely adventure. Even the path itself feels inviting, with soft forest light dappling the way as you approach these legendary waters.
As you crest the final stretch, the reward is immediate: two stunning lakes shimmer in impossibly clear emerald tones. You’ll be tempted to pause at every bend, camera in hand, captivated by water so transparent it’s as if the bottom of the lakes is within arm’s reach. The interplay of color and clarity is a photographer’s dream, especially for those eager to capture the elusive green hues and mirror-like reflections.
When it comes to timing, early morning is your golden hour. The soft, angled sunlight will illuminate the lakes without harsh glare, lending the entire scene a magical quality. By midday, the sun climbs higher, and you’ll find yourself shooting directly into its rays—a challenge for exposure as deep shadows begin to creep across the water’s surface. For best results, bring along a sturdy tripod and a polarizing filter; these essentials will help you balance reflections and tease out the vibrant details beneath the water’s surface.
Whether you’re here for the hike or the photos—or ideally, both — Grassi Lakes never fail to inspire, inviting every traveler to linger just a little longer in their enchanting presence.
Chasing Light with the iconic ‘Three Sisters’
There’s a kind of magic that happens the moment you catch a glimpse of the Three Sisters rising above Canmore. Three majestic peaks line up with a confidence that defines the Bow Valley skyline. Their distinctive silhouettes are impossible to miss, visible from nearly every corner of town, and they serve as constant companions for locals and visitors alike. If you’re into mountain photography, you’ll know these peaks are absolute must-captures. I can’t help but make them the highlight of my time in Canmore.
One of the best vantage points for photographing the Sisters is along the tranquil shores of Policeman’s Creek. The approach itself is part of the adventure: after parking at the off-leash dog area just off the Hwy 1A and Hwy 1 junction, follow the dry river bed through a patch of whispering trees. It’s a short and pleasant stroll, less than 600 metres, before the view opens up to a perfect spot by the water, with the mountains reflecting in the creek when the light is just right.
When it comes to timing, the photographer’s eternal question arises: sunrise or sunset? The answer, as I discovered, depends on the season and your own sense of adventure. In the gallery below, you’ll spot a sunrise shot (middle image) taken in late September—the peaks bathed in soft morning hues. Next is a sunset frame from early October, with clear skies but still warm light. The truth is, both times create their own magic, and sometimes the weather will guide you more than the clock. If you’re feeling ambitious, why not go for both? Trust me, the Sisters will reward you, no matter which side of the day you choose.
The Bow River Shoreline
The Bow River shoreline, nestled between 3rd and 2nd Streets, just west of 7th Avenue, is a hidden gem for photography enthusiasts visiting Canmore. Here, the mighty Ha Ling Peak and its neighbours soar skyward, their rugged silhouettes reflecting off the calm waters of the Bow. If you catch it right, the reflections can be absolutely breathtaking—a perfect mirror doubling the majesty of the mountains.
During my last wander along the riverbank, I stumbled upon a small herd of elk quietly roaming the shoreline and grazing in the meadows. My heart leapt with excitement as I scrambled to swap my wide angle for a super telephoto lens, hoping for that iconic wildlife shot. In the chaos, I forgot to adjust my camera settings and, well, completely flubbed every photo. Still, watching these powerful creatures in rutting season was unforgettable—though I kept a respectful distance, it was a true thrill to witness them in their natural habitat.
For those keen to explore, I highly recommend walking the trail along the Bow River. At one end, you’ll find the Engine Bridge, famously featured in HBO’s “The Last of Us.” The bridge itself offers endless photographic opportunities, from its steely structure to the sweeping views of the valley. Whether it’s the drama of the peaks or the serenity of the river, every step delivers fresh compositions.
Photography Tips for Canmore
- Weather in Canmore is famously fickle. Always check the local forecast and pack for every possibility. Late September mornings can be crisp, flirting with 0°C, while afternoons are often pleasantly warm, reaching up to 20°C. Layering is key if you’re heading out ahead of sunrise or staying after sunset.
- Don’t forget your tripod—especially during the golden hours when longer exposures are a must. A polarizing filter will help manage glare and reflections off the water. Adjust the amount of polarization to optimize the reflection.
- Most importantly, bring bear spray, and make sure you know how to use it; Canmore’s wilds are home to more than just elk, and safety always comes first.
- Pack both wide angle and super telephoto lenses. The former is essential for capturing sweeping vistas, while the latter isolates intimate details of the mountains and wildlife. After all, the beauty of Canmore lies just as much in the grand landscape as in its subtle, hidden corners.
Final Thoughts
Canmore is a dream for photographers and outdoor lovers alike. With countless locations to explore, you’ll find something to suit every style—whether you prefer energetic hikes or gentle strolls around town. For more adventures, don’t miss my full post about Canmore and its many wonders here. Pack your gear, prep your settings, and get ready to capture a slice of Alberta’s magic.
My Gallery
For more great photos of the Rockies, check out my Rocky Mountain Collection here.
I have also partnered with Pictorem, a professional printer who can ship prints anywhere in the world. They can print on a variety of media including metal, acrylic, paper and canvas. They offer a money back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied. If you see an image which you like and it is not available on Pictorem, just contact me here.
Here are some of my favorites.
Copyright 2025 Philip Colet 