Follow overgrown wagon roads below Canmore and discover the skeletal remains of lost mining towns while a guide explains the Bow Valley’s human and geological story. Expect forested trails, open viewpoints, and a moderate 2–3 hour outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The forest opens and the trail drops away beneath your boots — spruce and aspen push aside a view of the Bow Valley that seems to grow with every step. The Lost Towns Trail begins near the Canmore Recreation Centre and leads you down old wagon roads to scattered remnants of early mining camps, where weathered timbers and rusted hardware quietly mark human ambition against mountain stone.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate — suitable for hikers who can cover 5 km with uneven terrain and manage a steady climb on the return.
Wildlife
History
The trail follows routes used during late-19th and early-20th-century mining booms; small camps rose and fell as ore prices and accessibility changed.
Conservation
Stay on established trails to protect recovering forest understory and cultural artifacts; pack out all waste and follow local guidelines to minimize wildlife disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Canmore: Lost Towns and Untold Stories Hiking Tour - 3hrs today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early to beat weather and crowds
Morning departures offer cooler temperatures, clearer views, and quieter wildlife encounters; afternoon storms are common in summer.
Wear sturdy hiking boots
The descent has loose rock and roots; supportive, grippy footwear reduces ankle risk on the return climb.
Carry 1–1.5 L of water and snacks
Hydrate on the descent and top up energy for the uphill return — there are no services on-trail.
Observe wildlife from a distance
Elk and deer frequent lower slopes; keep dogs leashed and avoid approaching animals, especially during calving.
Sturdy hiking boots
Ankle support and traction for loose rock and rooty sections on the descent and return climb.
Layered clothing (wind shell + insulating layer)
Valley microclimates shift quickly; layers let you adapt to sun, wind, and shade.
1–1.5 L water bottle or hydration bladder
No potable water on the trail; plan for hydration for the full 2–3 hour outing.
Trekking poles
Useful for downhill stability and easing strain on knees during the return ascent; available on request.