Canmore , Canada

Canmore Caving Explorer Tour

Active

(276 reviews)

If you cancel at least 2 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The 4.5-hour Explorer Tour is jam-packed full of fun and excitement. Your guide will introduce you to the amazing world of caves, spending approximately 2 to 2.5 hours underground crawling past prehistoric bones, investigating ancient cave formations and even squeezing into places like the warm-up and challenge squeezes if you so choose.

Available options

11:00am Explorer Tour

Cave formations, ancient bones and pictographs await you on this journey into one of Canada's longest caves.

Start: 11:00 am

Duration: 4.5hrs

9:30am Explorer Tour

Cave formations, ancient bones and pictographs await you on this journey into one of Canada's longest caves.

Start: 9:30 am

Duration: 4.5hrs

What's included

Expert guide

All caving equipment

All activities

Detailed itinerary

Visit Rat's Nest Cave, one of the longest caves in Canada!

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off (can be arranged via taxi with advance notice)

Transportation to/from attractions (transportation can be arranged via taxi with advance notice)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

20 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

256 reviews

5★

248

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Minimum numbers apply (minimum 2). There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Caving is a moderately strenuous activity. Guests should be prepared to hike uphill for 30-40 minutes on a mountain trail, in addition to climbing, crawling, squeezing, and sliding through the cave. All participants must wear a helmet as well as a safety harness which has a maximum waist size of 46" (116 cm) and a maximum leg size of 33" (84 cm)

Not recommended for pregnant women beyond their first trimester

Important notes

• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication (drugs or alcohol). If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant women beyond their first trimester
• Tours are rain or shine and guests should be prepared to hike outside for 30-40 minutes. The cave temperature is 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) year-round
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What to wear and bring:
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We provide: coveralls, kneepads, gloves, helmet & headlamp, safety lanyard, and backpack. You will not get wet in the cave
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Footwear: Clients must wear appropriate footwear. Hiking boots are best or running shoes with good tread. No Sandals, No open toes, No skateboard shoes, No flat-soled shoes
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Clothing: Wear warm comfortable clothing: long bottoms, long sleeved shirt & sweater/fleece/hoodie on top. Suitable outdoor clothing is required for all seasons
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Food & Drinks: Please Bring a Bottle of Water and an Energy Bar for each participant on your tour.
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Cameras: Cameras are welcome in the cave, but must be pocket-sized. Smart phones and small point-and-shoot cameras do well, but please beware that the cave is a rugged environment and electronics are brought in at your own risk
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We reserve the right to refuse anyone admittance to the cave if they are not suitably dressed or their footwear is inappropriate. We assume no responsibility for loss or damage to any personal clothing or equipment (cameras included)

About Canmore

Canmore is a picturesque town nestled in the Canadian Rockies, offering stunning mountain views and a vibrant outdoor lifestyle. Known for its proximity to Banff National Park, it's a haven for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a blend of rugged wilderness and charming small-town hospitality.

Top Attractions

Grassi Lakes

Two stunning turquoise lakes surrounded by forest and offering easy hiking trails. The views are breathtaking, especially in the summer and fall.

Nature 2-3 hours for a round-trip hike Free

Ha Ling Peak

A challenging but rewarding hike with a steep ascent leading to panoramic views of the Bow Valley and Canmore.

Adventure 3-4 hours round-trip Free

Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre

A museum showcasing the history and geology of the Canmore area, including exhibits on the town's coal mining past and the natural history of the Rockies.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (around $10 CAD for adults)

Rat's Nest Cave

A unique cave system offering guided tours through stunning underground formations and historical sites.

Adventure 2-3 hours for a tour Moderate to expensive (around $50-$70 CAD per person)

Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park

A year-round recreation area offering hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing trails with stunning mountain views.

Adventure Varies by activity Free (some activities may require rentals or fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison Burger

A local favorite made with bison meat, often served with local cheeses and toppings. A must-try for meat lovers.

Dinner Contains meat, can be made gluten-free

Wild Game Dishes

Dishes featuring locally sourced wild game such as elk, venison, and bison, prepared in various styles.

Dinner Contains meat, may contain allergens

Fresh Trout

Locally caught trout prepared in various ways, often grilled or fried with local ingredients.

Dinner Contains fish, may contain allergens

Craft Beer and Local Wines

Canmore has a thriving craft beer scene with several local breweries and wineries offering unique, locally produced beverages.

Drink Alcohol, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Rock climbing Caving Skiing and snowboarding Spa treatments Scenic drives Wildlife viewing

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to February

Summer offers ideal conditions for hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors, while winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. These seasons see the highest tourist volumes.

15-25°C (summer), -10-0°C (winter) 59-77°F (summer), 14-32°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT), UTC-7 (standard time), UTC-6 (daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Canmore is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis and tour operators
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Calgary International Airport • 100 km (62 miles)

By bus

Calgary Downtown Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus service is affordable and convenient for getting around town and to popular attractions. Schedules may be limited outside of peak seasons.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi companies

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Canmore Three Sisters Dead Man's Flats

Day trips

Banff National Park

25 km (15 miles) • Half day to full day

Canada's oldest national park offers stunning mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Kananaskis Country

30 km (18 miles) • Half day to full day

A stunning area of wilderness and recreation, offering a mix of hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Yoho National Park

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

A breathtaking national park offering stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Festivals

Canmore Folk Festival • July Canmore Uncorked Food and Drink Festival • September Canmore Winter Carnival • February

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions early in the day to avoid crowds and secure parking
Dress in layers, as weather conditions can change quickly and vary significantly throughout the day
Bring plenty of water and snacks for hikes and outdoor activities, as services may be limited in remote areas
Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak seasons
Be bear aware and carry bear spray when hiking or exploring wilderness areas