🏠 1000+ Canmore Homes Affected

Good morning, Bow Valley!

This weekend is one of the funnest of the year in the Bow Valley, and you already know why: the Canmore Folk Festival is rolling into town. If you haven’t locked in tickets yet, this is your very last chance. You can do a single day or the whole shebang. We’ll be there, so maybe you should be too!  Details below.

— Fortune Whelan & Ben S.

CLIMBER PROPOSES NEW NAME FOR UNNAMED ROCKY MOUNTAIN

What’s Happening? British climber Andy Everett thought he’d made the first ascent of a mysterious 3,000‑metre peak between Banff and Jasper, until a vintage summit register proved otherwise.

The Not‑So‑First Ascent. Everett and two friends tackled the informally named “Nigel 2” on June 26, navigating a steep final face. At the top, celebration faltered when Everett spotted a rusted piton (a metal spike used by climbers for protection) and a jar with names dating back to 1966, confirming he wasn’t the first.

Why It Matters? While Everett missed the first ascent, the peak still has no official name. Despite being visible to thousands driving the Icefields Parkway, it remains one of the Rockies’ many unnamed summits. Everett has submitted a proposal to name it “Mount Dave Lorraine” after his parents.

How Mountains Get Their Names. The Rockies contain thousands of unnamed peaks, often due to remoteness. Naming features inside national parks requires approval from Alberta’s Geographic Naming Program, Parks Canada, and Indigenous consultation. Since Everett’s parents are still alive, the proposal likely violates the rule prohibiting commemorations for living people.

Recent Alberta Naming Context: 

• In 2020, Canmore’s controversially named peak (Squaw’s Tit) was officially changed to Anûkathâ Îpa (Bald Eagle Peak) after consultation with the Stoney Nakoda Nation.

• Similarly, Canmore’s Mount Lawrence Grassi was renamed Ehagay Nakoda in 1998 to reflect a Stoney Nakoda legend.

Putting It Together. Everett’s proposal may not follow precedent, but it’s part of a larger movement to give meaningful names to overlooked places, whether rooted in heritage, history, or personal story.

CANMORE FOLK FEST: 3 DAYS TO GO

Canmore’s best weekend of the year is almost here, and if you don’t have tickets yet, this is your nudge.

From August 2–4, the Canmore Folk Festival brings three full days of live music, community vibes, and sunshine-soaked dancing in Centennial Park. It’s the kind of weekend that makes you fall in love with Canmore all over again.

The lineup? Unreal. Corb Lund, Aysanabee, Frazey Ford, Kishi Bashi, Basia Bulat, Donovan Woods, and a dozen other rising stars you’ll be bragging about discovering.

There’s a beer garden. A kids’ zone. Local food trucks. Craft vendors. Free Roam Transit. Even a Calgary shuttle that drops you at the gate.

🎟️ Last change for tickets. Grab yours now.

Single-day or weekend passes are still available. Coming early? Festival Friday kicks things off with a free community concert in the park.

_{*Presented by Canmore Folk Fest.}

THE DIGEST

• 🏨 Banff Caribou Properties Just Opened Two New Hotels in Banff. Hotel Canoe & Suites and The Otter Hotel now sit where the old Inns of Banff used to be. One’s modern and playful, the other’s quiet and luxe. Both feature rooftop hot tubs and patios with a view. Summer rates run $704–$959/night; winter drops to $249–$399, which seems about average for Banff these days. Sudden Sally and Good Folk are the new restaurants. We’re hoping they invite us down soon for a proper review.

• 🐻 Grizzlies Boxed In by Mines, Roads, and Towns. A 20-year study shows grizzly bears are increasingly hemmed in by development in the southern Rockies. Coal mines, highways, and towns are breaking up their habitat, limiting movement and food access. Researchers warn future projects could isolate populations further. (Stay tuned. Our deep-dive into the study’s findings is coming soon.)

• ⌛ What Life Was Like in 1930s Canmore. We uncovered a 1936–38 labour agreement between the Canmore Coal Company and the Miners’ Union, and it reveals just how rugged life was before tourism took over. $2/month rent, $5.05/day wages, no paid time off, and even fines for dirty coal. We combed through the entire contract to pull out the most fascinating (and brutal) details. Read the full breakdown here.

• 💪 Canmore Trail Runner Sets Record on Iconic Rundle Traverse. Adam Mertens just set a new fastest known time (4 hours and 49 minutes) on the 11-peak Rundle Traverse above Banff. The Canmore local is part of a new generation of mountain athletes linking technical ridgelines with trail speed. Check out his full mountain resume. 

• 👮 New Peace Officer From Banff Graduates in Calgary. Among 29 recruits recognized at Calgary’s recent peace officer graduation, one came from Banff’s Municipal Enforcement team. The ceremony welcomed officers from across Alberta who will now begin their duties, including upholding bylaws and supporting community safety in Banff. Hopefully reminding visitors that “don’t feed the wildlife” isn’t just a polite suggestion. 

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WHY OVER 1,000 CANMORE RENTALS MIGHT NEED A NEW LICENCE

What’s Happening? Canmore is moving toward requiring every individually owned visitor accommodation unit to have its own business licence. Council gave first reading on July 8, with a public hearing set for September 2.

Why the Shift? Currently, many of these units are grouped under one business licence. Meaning multiple rental units share a single licence, which makes enforcement difficult. The new rule would align them with tourist homes, which have required individual licences since 2024.

So What’s the Difference? Tourist homes are regular homes in residential areas that can be rented both long-term and short-term (like on Airbnb). Visitor accommodations are hotel-style units in commercial areas meant only for short stays. Treating both the same would improve clarity, enforcement, and fairness.

By the Numbers. Out of 1,452 visitor accommodation units, only 389 are licensed. Requiring individual licences would add 1,063 at $150 each, generating $159,450 annually. The revenue would go to the town’s economic development fund and help turn the part-time business licensing coordinator role into a full-time job.

Industry Concerns. Tourism groups and property managers worry about added red tape and costs. To help, the Town is considering a phased implementation and education approach.

The Bigger Picture. Prompted by the Livability Task Force, this move responds to the surge in short-term rentals. Between 2013 and 2022, tourist homes grew by 170 and short-term rentals by over 660. 

THINGS TO DO

Wednesday

• Last Chance for Take Home Wings. Swing by Valbella today for their delicious wings. 2 lbs of marinated chicken wings, kettle chips, and mini cucumbers for $23. Don’t miss out on this combo. 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Valbella, Canmore.*

• Walking Social. Join Kiley Torti for a relaxed indoor walk or light cardio session at the Fenlands, followed by coffee, tea, and conversation. It’s stroller-friendly, beginner-friendly, and free for Banff residents. Runs from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

• Mountain Bike Ride. Join a group ride on Canmore’s mountain bike trails, geared toward intermediate to advanced riders, followed by a pint at Canmore Brewing Company. 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, starting and ending at 1460 Railway Ave.*

Thursday

• Public Swim. Whether you’re looking to do laps, relax, or have fun with the family, public swimming offers something for everyone. Enjoy the hot tub, or join a fitness swim. 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Elevation Place, Canmore. Drop-In fees apply.

• Nacho Special. Treat yourself to a mountain of cheesy, fully-loaded nachos for only $18. Great for sharing (or keeping to yourself). It’s the perfect way to add some mid-week flavour in Banff! 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Evergreen Lounge, Banff.*

BORN HERE. CLEANING HERE.

Zoe was born and raised in the Bow Valley, and she’s set on staying by building her dream business one spotless kitchen at a time. From regular residential cleans to move-outs and commercial jobs, she does it all (and does it well). If we want locals to stay local, we’ve got to back the ones putting in the work. She’s taking on new clients now. Reach out and see if it’s a good fit.*

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

• 🏬 A New Art Store Just Opened in Canmore.  Healing Mountain Creations just opened in Canmore’s Industrial Place, led by Natacha & Les from the Northwest Territories. Every piece carries a story, from diamond-dusted paintings to northern-inspired jewelry. Swing by to meet the artists, hear their stories, and maybe even find a piece that speaks to you or a loved one.*

• ✨ Lucent Festival’s Forest Market Is Calling. Lucent isn’t just yoga, live music, and river dips. It’s also a forest marketplace filled with handmade, small-batch, and soul-fueled finds. From artisan goods to mindful treats, you’ll meet 200+ local makers who care as much about the earth as they do their craft. Bring the kids, stay for the rhythm, and soak up the vibe. August 8 to 10. Limited tickets available.*

• 🎤 Exshaw Legion Hosts Singer-Songwriter Doug Robb. This Saturday head out to Exshaw for live music from 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, an afternoon meat draw, and a steak BBQ dinner for $20 beginning at 6:00 PM. Just show up or call Kim for questions (403-673-2792).*

• 🍔 Our Latest Burger Review: Elk & Oarsman. We’re back on the hunt for the best burger in Canmore and Banff. This time at the Elk & Oarsman. Their MVB stacks a beef patty with American cheddar, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, pickles, lettuce, tomato, and house burger sauce. Worth it? Watch the taste test.

• 📢 Performer Call. artsPlace’s Festival of Art & Creativity returns from Sept 11–14. They’re looking for 10–12 local musicians, dancers, or singers to share performances (5–8 min each). Solo acts or small groups welcome. Pros or amateurs. Paid opportunity. Apply by Aug 8. Email for more details ([email protected]).*

• 📣 Call for Food Vendors: Canmore Eagles Tailgate. We know a lot of restaurant owners and managers read this—so this one’s for you. The Canmore Eagles are hosting their Home Opener Tailgate on September 27 at the Rec Centre, starting at 5:30 PM. Big crowds, good vibes, and a great chance to show off your eats. Interested? Email for more details ([email protected]).

• 🚧 Construction Notice at Nordic Centre. Alberta Parks will replace part of the snowmaking system at Canmore Nordic Centre starting July 28 through October. Some day-use areas will close for public safety & efficiency, but the park, facilities, and events will continue as planned. 

• 🚌 Planning a Fall Trip To Lake Louise?  Reservations are now open for Route 8X (AKA the bus from Banff to Lake Louise), covering travel between September 1 and October 13. Secure your seat early and enjoy all those yellow larches without the hassle of parking.

CIVIC NEWS

• Canmore Updates Vital Homes Policy. Council unanimously approved changes to the Vital Homes Policy to boost affordable housing. The update gives developers more flexibility, like cash-in-lieu options, and gives Canmore Community Housing more control over pricing and design. The goal: deliver more non-market homes without adding pressure to market prices.

• Council Approves Sale of Flood-Affected Lots. After years sitting vacant post-2013 floods, Canmore is set to sell two Cougar Creek lots on Grotto Rd. Thanks to the completed debris dam, these properties can finally become homes again. Proceeds will go to the Town’s general capital reserve for future projects.

LIVE MUSIC

• Wednesday, July 30th, 2025, 10:00 PM: Wine Wednesday with Tenax + Tangerine Dance Location: Rose and Crown, Banff. No Cover.

• Thursday, July 31st, 2025, 4:00 PM: Steph O'Dette. Location: The Bison, Banff. No Cover.

• Thursday, July 31st, 2025, 6:00 PM: Julie & Chris. Location: Banff Gondola. No Cover.

SPORTS

• Canmore to Host 2029 Masters World Cup. It’s official. Canmore has landed the 2029 Masters World Cup for cross-country skiing. The international event will return to the Nordic Centre, bringing athletes from around the globe and a big boost for local tourism.

That’s all, folks!

We’ll see you back here on Friday, same time, same place! 

Heads Up: We sometimes feature paid promotion from local businesses and organizations we trust. When you see a little asterisk (*), that means it’s a sponsored post. We only work with partners we think our readers will actually care about.