An easy, guided evening in Banff National Park: a short drive from Canmore to a remote campfire, hot chocolate, and guided stargazing. Learn local sky lore and, if conditions allow, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The bus eases away from downtown Canmore as twilight tightens the valley. Within an hour you’re at a remote clearing where the guides build a steady ring of light — the campfire pushes warmth into cool alpine air while the Rockies stand quiet around you. The sky dares you to look up; with minimal light pollution, constellations and the Milky Way often dominate the view, and on rare nights the aurora may weave color across the horizon.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal exertion — suitable for most adults and older children in good health; involves short walks on even terrain
Wildlife
History
The Bow Valley has long been a travel corridor for Indigenous peoples and later fur trade and railway routes; campfires and sky lore are part of that living cultural landscape.
Conservation
The experience operates in a federally managed area where Leave No Trace is enforced—guests are asked to carry out waste, stay on designated areas, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Canmore: ALL Inclusive Campfire Experience with Stargazing today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for alpine nights
Temperatures can drop quickly after sunset; thermal base layers and an insulated jacket keep you comfortable for the full evening.
Bring a red headlamp
A red-filtered headlamp preserves night vision for stargazing and helps you move around the campsite without disturbing others.
Charge your camera batteries
Long exposures needed for stars drain batteries fast—bring a fully charged spare or a small power bank.
Respect the fire protocol
Guides manage the firepit for safety; keep a safe distance and follow instructions about seating and movement near the flames.
Insulated jacket
Keeps core warm during cold alpine evenings and wind off the valley floor.
fall
Sturdy, warm footwear
Protects against cold ground and damp site conditions; traction helps on frozen surfaces.
winter
Red-filter headlamp or flashlight
Preserves night vision for stargazing and helps with moving safely around the campsite.
Camera with tripod
Allows long-exposure shots of stars and potential aurora displays.
summer