Spend a half-day exploring two of Canmore’s most striking short hikes. This small-group tour pairs the turquoise basins of Grassi Lakes with the narrow limestone walls and icefalls of Grotto Canyon—ideal for photographers and first-time Rockies hikers.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold wind off the Spray River pushes through the parking lot as your guide corrals the small group and points toward the trail. Within minutes you leave Canmore’s pavement behind and step into a pocket of the Canadian Rockies where limestone cliffs tighten into a corridor and water—liquid or frozen—carves stories into stone.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5–4 hours
Fitness Level
Good for most hikers who can handle short uphill sections and uneven, sometimes icy terrain; families with older children can usually manage.
Wildlife
History
The Three Sisters were named in 1886 and the Canmore area grew from coal and ranching before becoming a mountain recreation hub.
Conservation
Stick to established trails to protect fragile alpine plants and avoid disturbing cultural pictograph sites; carry out all waste and minimize noise near wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Grassi Lake and Grotto Canyon Small Group Half-Day Tour in Banff today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Microspikes in winter
Grotto Canyon’s creek bed freezes; bring microspikes or accept guide-provided crampons to avoid slips.
Start early for light
Morning light enhances the turquoise at Grassi Lakes and reduces crowds on the boardwalks.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Wear waterproof hiking boots—mud, stream crossings and loose limestone are common on the Grotto approach.
Respect pictograph sites
Observe Indigenous pictographs without touching; they’re cultural artifacts and fragile to oils and abrasion.
Waterproof hiking boots
Support and traction for creek-bed walking and loose limestone.
Microspikes or crampons
Prevent slips on ice-covered creek beds and frozen approaches.
winter
Layered jacket
Mountain weather changes quickly—insulating, windproof layers keep you comfortable.
spring
Camera or smartphone with polarizer
A polarizer helps capture Grassi Lakes’ turquoise and reduce glare for better photos.
summer