Quarry Lake is a much beloved recreation area, for the jaw-dropping mountain views reflected in the waters of this small lake and the number of activities you can enjoy at this location. Formerly an open pit mine, Quarry Lake is a highly successful reclamation story, the details of which I am happy to share with you on the tour. The NEW Active by Nature Quarry Lake walking or Nordic walking tour is a delightful 2 hour experience in all four seasons. From Riverside Park in downtown Canmore, we will head across the Bow River and walk through West Canmore Park, through a residential area, along the Canmore Creek Trail, beside the cascading creek, climb a short staircase and complete a super scenic lap of Quarry Lake with views of the Three Sisters, Lawrence Grassi/Ehagay Nakoda, Ha Ling and the Rundle Range. We will stop at one of the picnic tables or lakeside benches for a brief break then return via the same route. There is an approximate elevation gain of 100 metres.
The Quarry Lake tour can be booked on-line for the following times: Tues., Wed., Thurs., Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 am to 11:00 am. A custom time can be arranged for groups of four or more. Quarry Lake is a wonderful destination for sunrise, sunset, a new moon or full moon or when there is a chance the Aurora will put on a show. At dawn or dusk, there is a higher probability of seeing deer, elk, coyotes and occasionally other wildlife such as bears.
During the summer, Quarry Lake is a busy place with people simply coming to relax and soak in the views. You will see people picnicking, paddling, swimming or floating on a variety of objects. Toddlers play on the small sandy beach while teens hang out at the other end of the lake, often choosing to run and jump in from a small cliff. You will also see people fishing, reading, walking and biking and even getting married! It is much quieter in the fall, winter and spring. But I think it is always beautiful, whatever the season and even on cloudy and rainy days.
This activity can be booked as a guided walking tour, or if you wish, a Nordic walking tour, with poles included and a few minutes devoted to instruction.
I am excited to introduce this new tour to the Active by Nature schedule. I live in the neighbourhood of Quarry Lake and visit it often. It is very dear to me! Now I am ready to share this very special place with visitors, making it the destination of a walk from Canmore’s downtown district with many interesting viewpoints along the way.
What to wear & bring (Spring, Summer, Fall):
What to wear & bring (Winter):
Experiences
Reserve OnLine:
It’s as easy as 1-2-3! Simply click the "Book Now" button, select your preferred date to check availability, fill in your personal details and then make a secure payment via credit card. The system will automatically send you a confirmation of your session with the relevant details.
Liability Waiver:
Liability waivers are a necessary part of any commercial activity experience. I recommend that you take the time now to review this legal document that you will be required to sign before we start our clinic or walk together:
View the WaiverYour Health & Physical Activity Readiness:
We ask guests who are experiencing cold symptoms and symptoms of COVID-19 to stay home and practice self-isolation under the direction of the appropriate governing body. For almost everyone, the benefits of physical activity far outweigh any risks. For some individuals, special advice from a Qualified Exercise or health care provider is advisable before becoming more active. This questionnaire is intended for all ages – to help move you along the path to becoming more physically active.
Please review this Questionnaire if you have concerns about your health or fitness level for participating in Nordic walking.
Cancellation Policy:
Full refunds are given if a cancellation is received 24 hours or more prior to the clinic or tour date. No refunds are given with less than 24 hours notice. Clinics/tours go rain or shine. If the weather is extreme, then it may be cancelled with a full refund given.
Parking:
Parking is available on-street or in public lots throughout Canmore. It is a good idea to arrive early on busy days to locate suitable parking.
Restrooms:
Restrooms are available at the Malcolm hotel in the lobby.
Restrooms:
Public restrooms are available within a short walk:
Restrooms:
Public pit toilets are available at all trailheads.
Where to meet:
Starting locations will vary seasonally with instructions included in your booking confirmation.
Parking:
Parking options will vary by location with details included in your booking confirmation.