Canmore, Alberta
by John McKiernan
Staff Writer
If you’re planning to travel to Canmore and the Canadian Rockies with a pet, you’ll want to have some ideas of where you can stay with it. When traveling with a pet, it’s best to imagine it as a mini version of you.
Like you, your pet has to swap its comfortable home for rented accommodations. It has to have identification and its own set of toiletries. And your pet, especially if it is a dog, will want to do all the activities that you are doing in and around the Canadian Rockies.
The only difference is your pet never has to pay. The fact is, the Canadian Rockies is not Disney World, it is literally “the great outdoors.” There is no better place to bring a pet than here. Many hotels will accept a pet with a forewarning phone call, but here are some Canmore accommodations that are especially pet friendly.
Mystic Springs Chalets & Hot Pools
Just a short walk from downtown Canmore, the Mystic Springs is the definition of luxury. If your dog really is your best friend, he will appreciate you all the more after this stay. Outdoor year-round hot springs, massages and some great scenery are all part of the experience here. All small pets are welcome at the managers discretion and for a nominal fee.
Blackstone Mountain Lodge
This is Canmore’s newest resort, bursting with luxury and options for relaxation. Their pet policy is quite liberal too. Dogs and cats under 40 lbs are allowed. There is a fee of $20 per pet, per night (up to $100 per stay). In order to best accommodate you and your pet, make sure to indicate when you make your reservation that you require a “Pet-Friendly” room.
Creekside Country Inn
This is another new accommodation Bed & Breakfast with 12 rooms in a lovely quiet zone. Right in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it is located at the entrance of the ominously named Cougar Canyon. All pets are welcome here, though extra fees may apply.
Fire Mountain Lodge
If your pet likes walks, as most pets do, this is a great option. There are some excellent walking trails nearby. Two and three-bedroom units with full kitchens, TV, DVD, XBox, and stereo are all included. Pets must be under 40 lbs. There is a $20 per pet, per night charge, up to $100 per stay. Maximum of two pets.
The Lodges at Canmore
This is a very laid back place where you can get away from all of life’s little problems. The situation is similar for your pet. After a long year of digging up bones and sniffing the backsides of other dogs, a rest is needed. Small well-behaved pets are welcome. If your pet hasn’t been hitting the Atkins diet and you are unsure if they count as small, just give the hotel a call and they will do their best to accommodate you. There is a dog sitting service and the charge is $20 a day per pet.
Rocky Mountain Ski Lodge
Welcoming, Clean and Customer Service-Oriented, the Rocky Mountain Ski Lodge offers a variety of accommodation options from standard rooms to studio and apartment condominiums with fully-equipped kitchens and gas fireplaces. Reasonable rates. All rooms have fridges, free wireless internet access and great mountain views.
Enjoy amenities such as a jacuzzi, sauna, laundry room, playground and BBQ to enhance your comfort and stay. Weekly rates available. Convenient location in Canmore and 5km from Banff Nat’l Park. 15 years recipient of the Alberta Housekeeping Award.