Category: General

Pawsitively Perfect: Exploring Canmore’s Canine Haven

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

 

Thinking of bringing your canine friend along with you to the Rockies? Fret not, in this blog post, we’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through Canmore, uncovering the many reasons why dogs and their owners find this town a truly pawsitively perfect destination.

Leash Your Mind: Unless Signage Rewinds

The town of Canmore has strict dog leashing rules and its important to follow them. The community prides itself in being accessible for all. Including our furry friends. In order to maintain this we all need to follow the rules. This limits the amount of dog fights and negative dog- human interactions. The town is thriving, meaning there are people from all walks of life here. Respecting the leash rules makes it a comfortable experience for everyone. In saying that, there are multiple off leash areas where your dog can run free and enjoy the mountains as much as  you will.

Boundless Bark Park: Unleash the Fun

No matter what part of town you find yourself in there is likely a dog park not far from you. Most trails and dog parks in town have dog waste bags available so please pick up after your four legged companion and dispose of it correctly. The Pallister fenced dog park offers a open space for dogs that like to run and play fetch. Located just off  the highway, its the prefect place to stop after a long drive. The Alpine dog park is a wonderful fenced off space. The area has many trees and is a playground for those adventurous pups that like to explore and meander through wooded trails. The Quarry Lake dog park is Canmore’s most popular. It is not fenced but there is ample signage of the off leash areas. This dog park has the trifecta. An open space for fetching needs, a wooded area for adventure seekers and a swimming pond to cool off in on those hot summers days.  Located in a wildlife corridor be sure to keep an eye and know where you dog is at all times.

Paws & Patios: Where Tails Wag & Hearts Sway

Since May 5th, 2022 dogs are allowed on patios once they are lashed and do not have to pass through any indoor areas to get to the patio. This was brilliant news for business and dog owners. Canmore has multiple patios, especially in summer. The main street closes to allow space for more outdoor seating for restaurants and coffee shops. The majority of restaurants allow dogs in these patios. If you are curious about which patios accept dogs, take a walk down main street and ask or check out this helpful list for both Canmore and Banff from banffawaits.com. Several establishments even offer doggy treats and water bowls, making dining experiences a delightful treat for our four-legged friends.

Wagcation Wonderland: Cozy Retreats for You & Your Pup

IF you are visiting then you will need somewhere for you and your pup to stay. Canmore has you covered. The Malcom Hotel is centrally located and offers dog friendly accommodation. They even boast supplying dog treats on their website. If you are looking for somewhere just outside town that offers dog friendly accommodation check out Copperstone Resort in Dead Mans Flats. If you are thinking about camping there is many options for you. Most are located just outside of the town itself but are a brilliant way to indulge in nature with your four legged friend. Visit explorecanmore.ca for a full list of options.

If you plan to visit with your dog you have ample options for places to stay, areas to walk, and pet friendly dining experiences.  If everyone works together obeying domesticated animal rules and regulations the town will be able to open up more opportunities for our furry friends to enjoy the picturesque community as much as we do. There are also many events that are pet friendly in Canmore. Head over to our blog Canmore’s diverse Community Events to learn more.

Pedaling Paradise: Exploring Canmore’s Breathtaking Bike Trails

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

If you’re a biking enthusiast, you’re in for an exhilarating treat! Canmore boasts a network of stunning bike trails that wind through picturesque landscapes, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for both beginner and seasoned riders. This blog is your one stop spot if biking through lush forests and open meadows sounds alluring to you.

 

Beginners Trails

If you are new to biking or you are looking for a low key casual ride Canmore has many options for you. The trial around then Bow River is perfect for a nice afternoon ride. While biking the loop next to the turquoise colors of the river you journey over an old engine bridge. The path is gravel and easily maneuverable for bikers of all levels. If your venturing into the world of mountain biking and looking for a beginner trail, the Canmore Nordic Center has many trails. Any of the green trails (Nordic Center trail map) are perfect for someone wanting to dip their toes into the world of mountain biking.  Take a longer ride and bike the Legacy Trail to Banff. This fully paved path is one of Canmore’s most well known rides. You can either bike back or take Roam public transport.

 

Intermediate Trails

If you are a competent rider that likes a more technical the Bow Valley is the place for you. The Montane Traverse, located on the sunny side of the valley, provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Starting at Cougar Creek this trail starts off with a kick, two steep hills get your heart rate elevated right from the get go. It then moves into some fun cross country, including a couple of creek crossings and some exhilarating downs.  While there is too many trails in the Nordic Center to cover in this blog, it arguably boasts the more popular intermediate trail among locals, the Odyssey Trail. Starting at the day lodge you can take the FYI and EKG trails to the meadows and link to Odyssey from there. The trail is well marked and has great berms and lots of flow, perfect to get your adrenaline going.

Advanced Trails

There is honestly a trail for every style of rider in Canmore and it does not lack options for advanced riders. The trail system is ever evolving, The Nordic center have just added a new trail called Top Gun. Not for the faint of heart, it includes some wooden wall rides and unavoidable jumps. The Reclaimer trail is another black trail. It starts of step with a few quick turns but them levels out into a nice flowy trail. You can bike up to the trail head but it is also to get someone to shuttle this fun exhilarating trail. If you have the ability to get to Exshaw (located 17km east if Canmore), check out Prospector trail. It starts with a steep incline with some switchbacks. There is  some rock slab, wooden features and  an over all sense of adventure on this route.

When biking in Canmore be sure to always check the routes, know where your going and be bear smart. If you are stopping in town with your bike ensure it is locked up and secure. Canmore has a bike route for everyone. Bring the family along and have a day out enjoying the easier routes. Peddle yourself to some amazing viewpoints and through meadows. Push yourself on more technical terrain. Enjoy the ride, let the wind blow through your hair and most importantly get outside and have some fun.

Want to know more about the history of Canmore? Check out our blog Canmore: From Mining Town to Mountain Paradise.

Canmore: From Mining Town to Mountain Paradise

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

Three Sisters and the Bow River

Nestled amidst the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, Canmore is a picturesque town that exudes natural beauty and charm. While it may be known today as a world-class destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Canmore has a fascinating history that dates back to its humble beginnings as a mining town. In this blog post, we will embark on a journey through time and delve into the captivating history of Canmore, from its early days as a coal-mining community to its transformation into a vibrant mountain paradise.

Coal Mining Origins

The history of Canmore can be tracked back to the 19th century when coal was discovered in the Bow Valley. The presence of coal in the Canmore area was known to Indigenous peoples long before European settlement. The coal deposits were first explored by European settlers in the late 1800s. The first coal mine in Canmore was established in 1887 by the Canadian Anthracite Coal Company. This led to the opening of several other mines including the Bankhead mine located northwest of Canmore. The opening of these mines attracted a wave of miners seeking employment, which evolved Canmore into a thriving mining community.

Life in the mining town

During its mining heyday, Canmore bustled with activity. The town was a close-knit community where miners and their families worked and lived together. Company houses, schools, and other amenities were established to cater to the growing population. The town’s rich multicultural fabric reflected the diverse backgrounds of its residents, who hailed from various parts of the world, including Scotland, Wales, Italy, and Eastern Europe.

The role of the Canmore mines

The opening of mines in Canmore was pivotal to the economy and population of the town as we know it today. The coal extracted from the mines was renowned for it’s exceptional quality. Anthracite is a hard and lustrous coal, and while difficult to ignite, it burns hot and with little smoke, making it ideal for generating steam. The coal extracted from the mines fueled the development of near by towns and was crucial for the expanding railway system. (rmoutlook.com)

Closure of the mines

Following the decline in demand for coal in the 20th century, the Canmore mines faced major challenges. After being bought and sold by numerous companies the last mine was closed in 1979. Leaving a town of people unemployed. Not a mining town anymore, Canmore went through a major transformation. The natural beauty surrounding the location of Canmore made it a desirable place for people to live and visit. This awe-inspiring landscape has transformed Canmore into an exhilarating playground, where adventure knows no bounds and the spirit of exploration thrives. With each summit reaching higher, the allure of this outdoor haven grows stronger, captivating the hearts and souls of those seeking to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of nature’s grandest spectacle.

Winter Olympics

The winter months bring copious amounts of snow to Canmore and in 1988, Canmore hosted the Winter Olympics. This world tuned in to observe the best biathletes and skiers perform in the quaintness of Canmore, resulting in many being awestruck by its beauty. This publicity from the Olympics put Canmore on the map for wanderlust enthusiasts and trailblazers leading to increased visitors. The town had re-established itself as a top travel destination, once again becoming a prosperous desirable location for people to live, work and thrive.

Modern Canmore

Today, Canmore is a vibrant and thriving community that seamlessly blends its rich heritage with a modern mountain-town lifestyle. Its charming downtown area is adorned with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, attracting both locals and tourists. The town continues to embrace its natural surroundings, offering a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and climbing.

Canmore’s history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its community. From its humble beginnings as a coal-mining town to its transformation into a world-renowned tourist destination, Canmore has evolved while retaining its unique character and natural beauty. Exploring the town’s history allows us to appreciate the journey it has undertaken and the people who have shaped it into the beloved mountain paradise it is today.

Thinking of visiting Canmore? Click Here to learn about things to do in the area.

The Art of Keeping a House Organized

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

 

Tips for a Clutter-Free Home!

Living in the mountains means you have a multitude of equipment for all your adventures. This amassment of belongings can result in a cluttered space. The change of winter to summer is the perfect time to declutter and organize.

Maintaining an organized home is essential for creating a peaceful and functional living space. A well-organized house not only enhances productivity and reduces stress but also saves time and promotes a sense of well-being. While the task may seem overwhelming, with a few practical strategies and habits, you can transform your home into an oasis of orderliness. In this blog post, we will explore some effective tips and techniques to keep your house organized and clutter-free.

The most beneficial time to de clutter and organize is when you are doing your seasonal gear swap over. Put the skis, snowboards, and ice skates away and get your bike, canoes and hiking shoes dusted off for another season of fun and adventure. Use some of these simple but effective tips and kick start yourself into a stress free, fun loving summer.

  1. Declutter and Simplify: The first step towards an organized home is decluttering. Start by sorting through your belongings and getting rid of items you no longer use or need. Donate or sell things that are in good condition but serve no purpose in your life. Remember, less is more, and simplifying your possessions will make organizing a breeze.
  2. Establish a Routine: Maintaining a consistent routine is crucial for keeping your house organized. Set aside specific times for tidying up each room, doing laundry, and cleaning. By following a routine, you prevent clutter from accumulating and maintain a clean environment effortlessly.
  3. Embrace Smart Storage Solutions: Investing in practical storage solutions is a game-changer when it comes to organizing your house. Utilize storage containers, baskets, bins, and shelves to store items neatly and efficiently. Labeling containers will make it easier to find things when needed and ensure they are returned to their designated spots. The Rubbermaid stackable bins are great for getting all your belonging organized.
  4. One In, One Out Rule: Adopt the “one in, one out” rule to prevent unnecessary accumulation of belongings. Whenever you purchase a new item, make a conscious effort to remove a similar item to maintain balance. This practice not only helps control clutter but also encourages mindful consumption.
  5. Create Zones: Designate specific areas or zones for different activities within your home. For example, create a reading nook, a workspace, and a play area for children. Having dedicated zones makes it easier to keep things organized and prevents clutter from spreading throughout the house.
  6. Daily Maintenance: Incorporate daily maintenance habits into your routine to keep your home tidy. Simple tasks like making your bed, doing the dishes, and putting away items after use make a significant difference. By taking care of small tasks regularly, you avoid accumulation and maintain a clutter-free environment.
  7. Digital Organization: In today’s digital age, keeping your virtual spaces organized is just as important as physical spaces. Regularly declutter your digital files, delete unnecessary emails, and organize documents into folders. Utilize productivity apps and digital calendars to stay on top of tasks and appointments.
  8. Involve the Whole Family: Keeping a house organized is a collective effort. Involve your family members in the organization process and assign age-appropriate responsibilities. Teach children the importance of tidiness and establish organizing habits from a young age. By sharing the workload, you create a sense of ownership and foster an organized household.

Maintaining an organized home is an ongoing process, but the benefits far outweigh the effort involved. By decluttering, establishing routines, embracing smart storage solutions, and involving your family, you can create an organized haven that promotes a peaceful and stress-free lifestyle. Remember, an organized home is not only visually appealing but also enhances your overall well-being. If you start implementing even just one of  these tips today you will enjoy the rewards of a clutter-free and organized living space instantly.

 

Read more useful blogs about mountain living HERE.

Congratulations! 114 Rundle Road in Canmore Sold!

Posted on by Katie OSullivan

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that the beautiful property located at 114 Rundle Road in Harvie Heights has been sold! This stunning home, nestled in the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, has found its new owner, and we couldn’t be happier for all parties involved.

The seclusion and privacy will inspire you in this Harvie Heights property with a lot that is over a quarter acre. Perfect for either full time use or as your mountain escape this 2+ bedroom, 2 bath home features plenty of storage in the home along with an oversized heated single car garage and large shed.

As you enter the home you are pulled from the entry through to the open living space with large windows bringing in the light and sun. The living room features a wood burning fireplace which flows to the dining area and kitchen with large eating bar.

Also on this level is a three piece bath. Upstairs is the primary retreat with recently updated four piece ensuite bath, walk in closet and a second closet. The lower level has the second bedroom along with an office or potential third bedroom, laundry room and storage/utility space. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the wrap around deck as the home is surrounded by the forest and mountains.

The outdoor space of this property is equally impressive. With a large deck, a fenced backyard, it’s a perfect oasis for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate the beauty of nature.

Canmore is a renowned mountain town in Alberta, Canada, known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant community. This town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its close proximity to Banff National Park, numerous hiking and biking trails, and world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. Canmore also offers a thriving arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and festivals throughout the year.

The sale of 114 Rundle Road is a testament to the strong demand for quality properties in Canmore’s real estate market. The picturesque location, modern features, and outdoor lifestyle that Canmore offers make it an attractive destination for buyers seeking an exceptional mountain living experience.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the new owner of 114 Rundle Road in Canmore, as well as to the sellers and all parties involved in the successful sale. We wish the new owners many wonderful memories in their new home and hope they enjoy all the beauty and lifestyle that Canmore has to offer.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating this exciting news. Stay tuned for more updates and news about the Canmore real estate market!

More info: canmorerealestate.com/featured-listing/114-rundle-road/

November Newsletter- Winter is coming!!

Posted on by curiousprojects

Winter Has Arrived!!!

While we enjoyed one of the best and longest falls either of us can remember, winter has arrived and with it our thoughts have turned to our 30th Annual Food Drive in early December (see details below) along with skiing, snowshoeing and all the amazing activities in our mountain paradise.

Our market is one that many are struggling to understand. While it has felt for many like the market has taken a step back and with many price reductions, we can see how it could be viewed that way. Many price reductions we are seeing is sellers that have hoped to capture some of the higher prices seen earlier this year and those reductions are bringing the prices down to actual market pricing. We are seeing more pressures on local buyers with increases in interest rates and the lack of options on the market but less of an effect from second home buyers as they often have less concern for the financing aspect of the purchase.

Understanding that the last few years have been so different with the pandemic and resulting effects it had on the market we like to compare our current market to 2017 thru 2019. Our market total of active listings on November 1st this year is 138 compared to the average number of active listings from 2017 thru 2019 being 204 (so 32% less inventory). For total sales we saw 32 in October 2022 and the average from 2017 to 2019 was 42 (so 24% less sales). It is easy to look at the reduction in sales as a slow down of the market but it would be naive to say that without referencing the lack of inventory.

As mentioned above and below, we are proud to announce once again, that our 30th Annual Royal LePage Food Bank Drive will be on Tuesday December 6th. This is our biggest ask of the year, as we always need help that night for a few hours. Please give us a call if you can help out that night with a bit of your time, a donation of non-perishable food or a monetary donation.

Lastly, we are here to help you, or anyone you know for all your real estate needs. We are never too busy for your referrals!

To continue reading : http://mailchi.mp/031de21a435d/october2022-8686959

Canmore Shops Local Initiative: Back At It Sports and Wellness

Posted on by curiousprojects

Back At It Sports & Wellness was established in 2005, and it used to be a mobile service for events and races to treat athletes. The business has grown to now include 3 clinics: 1 in Banff, and 2 in Canmore. We had a chance to speak with founder and business owner Vanessa Joosten about the company, effects of the pandemic, and ways that the Bow Valley community has come together during the past year. 

 

A Unique Approach to Massage

When you think of a massage clinic, what comes to mind? For Vanessa, the Back At It vision is unique in many ways. The clinic has a therapeutic approach to deep tissue massage rather than being a spa. Therapists are all highly qualified, and staff take courses to further their knowledge and expertise even further. Vanessa hires therapists that are very talented and personable, so that any client can book an appointment and know that they will get the highest level treatment possible no matter who they see. Clients receive holistic treatment, which focuses on creating healthy habits for the whole body, rather than restricting things like diet. This holistic approach also includes addressing individual needs for recovery from injuries, while working with the client to prevent future injuries from occurring as well.

 

Vanessa is passionate about her business, mainly due to the deep connections she has made with clients. Many locals visit her clinics, and people who visit once often come back for more. You can see the care and attention to detail that Vanessa has created in all three clinics. As soon as you walk in, the calming atmosphere is relaxing and comforting. Not to mention the decor is very visually appealing! Clients get to spend anywhere from 30-90 minutes receiving treatment with no distractions, and get to connect with their massage therapists on a deeper level. Staff are hired based on personability, and clients definitely appreciate the relatable and friendly staff at Back At It Wellness.

 

The Effects of Covid-19

At Back At It Wellness, staff take the health of themselves and their clients very seriously. During the 1st wave of shut downs, Vanessa began immediately trying to find ways to keep clients and staff safe. By the time that restrictions had eased and the clinics could re-open, Vanessa had created workplace safety policies that went above and beyond the government regulations. She firmly believes that doing the minimum is not enough, and in order to keep everyone safe there needs to be transparency and strong leadership. Staff wear PPE, disinfect frequently, and stay in their own treatment rooms so there is minimized contact at the clinic. The staff are also aware that their choices made outside of work (such as social distancing) will greatly impact everyone at the clinic.

 

There’s a reason why staff retention is so high at Back At It Wellness. Vanessa creates a welcoming and inclusive work environment, and encourages professional development for her staff. For this reason, many staff have gone on to achieve additional qualifications and certifications beyond their RMT education. This positive work environment results in the highest quality care and treatment that every client receives.

 

A Community Coming Together

Vanessa is amazed at the overwhelming support from clients and other business owners in the Bow Valley. She, in turn, has decided to give back to the community and support businesses that have been hit hard by the pandemic. Vanessa noticed that restaurants have been having a very hard time with restrictions, and has recently bought gift cards from local restaurants, and they are then giving those gift cards to people in need. To support athletes who have not been able to compete, Vanessa is picking 5 athletes who will receive monthly massages for an entire year!

 

There is an incredible cycle of support within the Bow Valley between all the business owners, as well as the local community. Vanessa is confident that people will continue to look out for each other during this pandemic. Giving shout outs on social media, leaving reviews, or buying gift cards for others are simple ways to show appreciation and support for your favourite local businesses.

 

Moving Forward

Working during this pandemic can be lonely and isolating, especially when staff aren’t allowed to be in close contact with each other. To combat this, Vanessa keeps her staff motivated and focused in some creative ways. During the holidays, she created an advent calendar, and staff received gifts every week, including free massage cards to give to friends or family. To keep staff morale high, Vanessa shares compliments or reviews that clients have left about Back At it. Staff are now participating in a sunflower seed growing competition, which is an awesome way to stay connected with each other while social distancing.

 

Vanessa wants other business owners to know that it’s okay to ask for help. Her advice for business owners who might be struggling is: be honest and stay true to your vision, reach out to the community, and know that you aren’t alone. There are plenty of people who are willing to lend a helping hand if needed.

 

You can find more information about Back At It Sports and Wellness from their website. Follow their Instagram and Facebook pages for updates and promotions!

 

by: Annie Vlahiotis

Business in Calgary Featured Article

Posted on by curiousprojects

Is now the time to buy recreation property?

Brad spoke with Jamie Zachary regarding the recent upswing of recreational property purchases during this pandemic.

Last March, sales decreased by 80%, then spiked in May 2020. Since then, the Canmore market has taken off – more than Brad has seen in his 29 years of real estate. Whether it’s people taking early retirement or working from home, the demand for Canmore recreational properties is not going away any time soon. Many buyers are also making cash purchases rather than financing these properties.

Check out the article here.

Alberta Plans Tourism Boost by 2030

Posted on by curiousprojects

What’s in it for Canmore Real Estate?

 

Travel Alberta has a target to skyrocket tourism by 2030, with a $20 billion goal. This promises to create more business overall throughout the province, and it’s perfect for planning in real estate!  It’s never too early to brace ourselves for what [we look forward to] could potentially increase the curiosity of homeowners, buyers and tourists alike.

Canmore and Banff’s tourism highlights an abundance of recreational activities with the surrounding mountains like Three Sisters, Mount Rundle and the Banff Lake offering countless opportunities for adventure and relaxation such as downhill skiing, skating, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, hiking trails, rock climbing, bird watching and fishing for our residents and visitors.

The beauty of the area inspires those who visit to live here and experience nature at its fullest year-round.  A privilege not a lot of people could say they have, and with a development this big on the rise, there is no doubt there may be big questions in preserving the area’s natural resources.

Travel Alberta CEO Royce Chwin addressed some major concerns by saying; “We in fact don’t use the term “over tourism”, we just talk about the management of tourism. Quite frankly, the term just lends this idea that the Bow Valley has been completely over run, it’s not – we know that because Parks, being in partnership with Banff and Lake Louise Tourism, are doing proactive things to try to protect the environment and the experience,” People are going and experiencing the destinations in different ways, in shoulder seasons like fall or winter as an example, and that’s where there’s opportunities to create more experiences, and create more businesses and community wealth come. This why we work together in this team Alberta approach to throttle on or throttle off our business opportunities.”

 

To know more information about this news, and its impact for us and our clients, click here:

Travel Alberta targets $20 billion in visitor spending by 2030, no concerns of over-tourism in the Bow Valley

Chairman’s Club 2018

Posted on by curiousprojects

It has been indeed a great year for 2018!

Our real estate tandem Brad Hawker and Drew Betts ranked number 155 out of all 18,300 Royal LePage Realtors nationally joining the Chairman’s Club again representing the top 1% and number 8 in Alberta.

They Specializing in buying and selling Residential and Commercial Real Estate in Canmore. Brad and Drew continue to provide their clients expert advise and service with a drive for success!

Contact them for any of your real-estate needs at https://canmorerealestate.com/contact.