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Canmore is located literally just outside the south boundaries of Banff
National Park and is only a 15 minute drive from the town of Banff. Considered
to be the residential community of the area, Canmore has an established
infrastructure geared towards an outdoor lifestyle mixed with all the
facilities needed to enjoy a visit.Canmore is nestled on the eastern edge
of the Rockies, on the northern end of the Kananaskis range, and has its
own micro-climate. It is in the rain shadow of the Rockies and on the
start of the Chinook Belt. It receives 47 cm of rain (19 inches) per year,
and receives very little snow accumulation.
Canmore is best known for the Canmore Nordic Centre, the host of the cross country and biathlon events in the 1988 Winter Olympic games. It is also known for the cheapest gas between Calgary and Vancouver (no BC sales taxes, no National Parks rents) and lots of hotel rooms and restaurants close to the Trans-Canada Highway. Building restrictions in Banff limiting the development of residences, commercial offices and stores, and accommodations has made Canmore a boom-town, until it recently decided to voluntarily impose its own restrictions. Many people working in Banff actually live in Canmore and commute into town, not only for the lower cost of living but also for its quiet, relaxed, un-touristy feel.
With numerous festivals held throughout the year, Canmore is a vibrant and active town and the local arts community is quite active. There are several cozy galleries, museums, cafes and restaurants - all located in a 6 square block core area. Walking and cycling paths meander throughout the town making it a visually engaging place to be. Spend the day exploring shops, hiking the many trails, golf world class courses or experience fly-fishing at a quiet mountain stream. When you're done settle into one of the local restaurants which offer anything from world-renowned Alberta Beef to sushi. Try the local beers as well - there are two award winning micro-breweries in Canmore.
Today, Canmore has a population of almost 11,000 people and it's land
mass covers a substantial 68 square kilometers.
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Alberta