One of the best things about living in Calgary is how easy it is to escape the city without spending half your weekend driving.
Mountains, lakes, trails, cozy cafés, spas… all within reach.

So if you’re ready for a quick reset, here are 3 weekend getaways under 2 hours from Calgary that you will absolutely fall in love with.

🌄 1. Kananaskis

Drive time: 1 hour
Best for: Relaxation, hiking, spa days, mountain views

Kananaskis is what I like to call “Banff’s peaceful sibling.”
Same mountains. Same gorgeous scenery. Far fewer crowds.

Whether you want a romantic weekend, a spa escape, or a quiet nature recharge, Kananaskis nails it.

Why you’ll love it:
✔ Nordic Spa & hot pools
✔ Scenic trails for all fitness levels
✔ Wildlife sightings (from a safe distance!)
✔ Cozy lodges & patios
✔ Beautiful year-round

If you want nature + serenity without tourist chaos, this is your place.

🌊 2. Sylvan Lake

Drive time: 1 hour 45 min
Best for: Summer weekends, families, water lovers, small-town charm

If you want lake vibes without the long haul to the Okanagan, Sylvan Lake is perfect.
It’s lively in summer, peaceful in fall, and always charming.

Why you’ll love it:
✔ Beach town feel
✔ Paddleboarding & water sports
✔ Cute shops and cafés
✔ Great summer patios
✔ Fun for families or couples

It feels like a mini vacation — without the vacation-level prices or planning.

⛰ 3. Canmore

Drive time: 1 hour 10 min
Best for: Foodies, mountain lovers, couples, spa + adventure

Canmore is the getaway that never disappoints.
It has that “I can breathe again” energy from the second you arrive.
And the food scene? Excellent.

Why you’ll love it:
✔ Mountain views everywhere
✔ Both casual & elevated dining
✔ Coffee shops with stunning scenery
✔ Trails, shops, river paths
✔ Year-round beauty

Perfect for a romantic weekend, a girls’ trip, or a solo mental reset.

🌟 Why Weekend Trips Are So Easy From Calgary

Calgarians are spoiled.
We live next to mountains, lakes, foothills, parks, golf courses, and stunning scenery — all within a quick drive.

You can leave after work Friday and be in full vacation mode by dinner.
That’s one of the biggest lifestyle perks for relocators from BC, Ontario, and beyond.

📩 Want My Full Weekend Escape Guide?

I created a full guide with:
✔ Mini itineraries
✔ Restaurant + café suggestions
✔ Dog-friendly trail options
✔ Scenic spots to explore
✔ Cozy stays & hidden gems
✔ Seasonal activities

💬 DM “ESCAPE” and I’ll send it to you.

❓ FAQ

Q: Which getaway is best for families?
A: Sylvan Lake or Kananaskis (great for kids of all ages).

Q: Best for couples?
A: Kananaskis Nordic Spa or Canmore’s food + views combo.

Q: Dog-friendly options?
A: Kananaskis and Canmore both have excellent dog-friendly trails.

Q: Can you do these as day trips?
A: Yes — but trust me, the overnight makes it magical.

📚 Related Reading

• 🌆 A Perfect Fall Day in Calgary: Coffee, Trails, and Mountain Views

• 🏙 Why Everyone’s Moving to Calgary in 2025 — And Not Just for the Oil Jobs

• 🚗 Costco, Coffee & Commuting: What It’s Really Like Living in Northwest Calgary

About Kristen Edmunds

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.

Short Drives, Big Adventures

Need a break but don’t want to hop on a plane? The good news: Calgary is perfectly positioned for incredible weekend getaways. Within just a few hours’ drive, you can be surrounded by mountain peaks, relaxing lakes, historic landscapes, and charming small towns. Whether you want an adventure-packed weekend or a quiet escape, Calgary has options for every traveler.

Here are five weekend getaway ideas near Calgary you’ll want to try:

1. Canmore & Banff – Mountain Adventure Meets Relaxation

Distance from Calgary: ~1 hour

Banff National Park and the mountain town of Canmore are Alberta icons for a reason. The area offers:

• Outdoor adventures: Hiking, biking, skiing (in winter), and canoeing.

• Relaxation options: Cozy mountain lodges, spa experiences, and scenic drives like the Icefields Parkway.

• Dining & nightlife: Canmore is known for its local craft breweries and trendy restaurants, while Banff offers lively après-ski spots and luxury dining.

Why you’ll love it: Perfect for anyone who loves breathtaking scenery combined with small-town mountain vibes.

2. Kananaskis – Spa & Nature Escape

Distance from Calgary: ~1 hour

Kananaskis, often called “K-Country,” is quieter than Banff but just as stunning. Highlights include:

• Kananaskis Nordic Spa: Heated outdoor pools and relaxation circuits for a unique wellness experience.

• Golf & hiking: Beautiful golf courses and trails like Troll Falls and Grassi Lakes.

• Wildlife & scenery: Expect moose, deer, and gorgeous mountain backdrops.

Why you’ll love it: It’s ideal for couples or friends looking to unwind with spa treatments, explore hiking trails, and enjoy the outdoors without the crowds.

3. Drumheller & The Badlands – A Prehistoric Adventure

Distance from Calgary: ~1.5 hours

Drumheller offers one of Alberta’s most unique landscapes: hoodoos, canyons, and prehistoric attractions. Key stops:

• Royal Tyrrell Museum: One of the best dinosaur museums in the world.

• Hoodoo Trail & Horseshoe Canyon: Epic photo opportunities and hiking trails.

• The Atlas Coal Mine: A historic site offering guided tours and a look into Alberta’s past.

Why you’ll love it: A unique mix of science, history, and outdoor adventure — perfect for families or anyone who loves something a little different.

4. Sylvan Lake – Summer Lake Life

Distance from Calgary: ~1.5 hours

Sylvan Lake is a summer favorite, offering:

• Beaches & water sports: Jet skiing, paddleboarding, and swimming.

• Lakeside dining: Relax with a view at one of the local pubs or cafes.

• Events & markets: Farmers markets and summer festivals create a lively atmosphere.

Why you’ll love it: This is your go-to spot for a beach vibe without leaving Alberta.

5. Waterton Lakes National Park – Small Town, Big Views

Distance from Calgary: ~3 hours

Waterton combines stunning mountain scenery with quaint small-town charm:

• Scenic hikes: Crypt Lake Trail and Red Rock Canyon are popular choices.

• Wildlife viewing: Bison, bears, and deer are often spotted.

• Historic hotels & cozy eateries: Perfect for romantic weekends or a quiet family getaway.

Why you’ll love it: Waterton offers breathtaking views and a slower pace, ideal for unplugging and recharging.

Bonus Ideas for a Calgary Staycation

If you don’t feel like driving, explore local gems like:

• Fish Creek Provincial Park – Hiking and biking trails in the heart of the city.

• Calgary Farmers’ Market – A foodie’s paradise for local eats and artisan goods.

• Heritage Park or Calgary Zoo – Perfect for families and quick day trips.

Living in Calgary means you’re never far from adventure. Whether it’s the mountains of Banff and Canmore, the prehistoric landscape of Drumheller, lakeside relaxation at Sylvan Lake, or the peaceful charm of Waterton, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Want more ideas and planning tips?
📩 DM me “GETAWAY” and I’ll send you my full Calgary Weekend Escape Guide with itineraries, hidden gems, and pro travel tips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What’s the closest mountain getaway to Calgary?
Canmore and Kananaskis are both less than an hour away, making them perfect for quick trips.

2. What’s the best weekend trip for families?
Drumheller is a hit with kids thanks to the Royal Tyrrell Museum and unique Badlands hikes.

3. Do I need a park pass for these trips?
Yes, if you’re visiting Banff, Canmore (Kananaskis requires a conservation pass), or Waterton, a park pass is required.

4. Are these trips year-round?
Most are! Banff, Canmore, and Kananaskis offer winter sports, while Drumheller, Sylvan Lake, and Waterton are best enjoyed spring through fall.

Related Reading

• Where Should You Live If You Work Downtown Calgary?

• Top 5 Mistakes That Cost Calgary Sellers Money

• What It’s Really Like to Live in an Acreage Outside Calgary

Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.