🏞️“All Season Resorts” Coming To Alberta?

Good morning, Bow Valley!

We’re thrilled to welcome two new friends to Bow Valley Insider: Lori Mitchell and Alex Kocian! They’re taking over our Friday Real Estate section, continuing to showcase Bow Valley properties (a favorite for many of you!), along with must-know local real estate updates.

Lori (left), a Bow Valley local since 1992, and Alex (right), Canmore-born and raised, are your go-to experts for everything buying and selling. They’re the friendliest and most knowledgeable real estate people we know in the Bow Valley—and we genuinely mean that!

In today’s Bow Valley Insider:

• Alberta’s new idea for year round tourism 

• Canmore’s Fireguard Battle Begins!

• Comedy nights are back

Let’s get to it!

— Fortune Whelan & Ben S.

ALBERTA’S BIG TOURISM MOVE

What’s Happening: The Alberta government wants to make it easier for private resorts to set up shop on Crown land year-round. Enter the All-Season Resort Act, which could mean 99-year leases for resorts with year-round attractions—think mountain biking in summer and skiing in winter.

The Big Idea: Alberta’s Tourism Minister, Joseph Schow, aims to keep Albertans (and their wallets) in the province instead of heading to B.C.’s famous resorts. The plan is estimated to bring in $2 billion annually in tourism spending, giving Alberta’s economy a boost while providing more outdoor options.

Why Now? With tourism goals of hitting $25 billion by 2035, Alberta’s looking to diversify beyond summer camping and hiking. The government hopes to develop these all-season spots responsibly, with a new regulator ensuring environmental standards.

Bottom Line: Alberta could soon rival B.C.’s mountain getaways with its own all-season playgrounds—if the bill passes, of course.

ALEX & LORI’S PROPERTY OF THE WEEK: 3-216 THREE SISTERS DRIVE

Ever wonder about retirement options here in Canmore? Ask any local about their favorite spots and they’ll very likely mention Mountain Shadows. An exclusive 50+ complex striking the perfect blend of privacy and nature!

Location: Just a 5 minute walk to Main Street it's ideally located for easy access to shopping, dining and all your favorite amenities. As an outdoor enthusiast, you'll adore the easy access to paved biking and hiking trails with the Bow River and Nordic Center a stones throw away… Elk sightings here are common too! They seem to love the peace & quiet just as much as we do making the park a favorite resting spot.

Community: The community atmosphere is top-notch, with neighbors hosting regular gatherings at the Clubhouse for potlucks or simply to catch up over coffee.

For the complete listing details or more information contact Lori [email protected] or Alex [email protected].

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THE DIGEST

• 🧑‍🚒Construction has started on a fireguard around Canmore to protect against wildfires. Closures are in place for tree thinning in high-risk areas like Benchlands East (view map of current closures). 

• 🪦The Canmore Legion recently rededicated its cenotaph (monument), adding the names of Canadians who served in the Gulf War, Afghanistan, and NATO missions. Veterans, families, and local leaders gathered to honor these additions. 

• 💌Young conservationists from Canmore’s Alpenglow School raised $5,600 for Y2Y through an Earth Day “Fun Run.” Inspired by Y2Y’s mission, students shared hopes for a greener future, safer wildlife crossings, and conservation efforts. One six-year-old even asked for donations instead of birthday gifts.

• 💝The Pauw Foundation, a Banff-based organization dedicated to enhancing community well-being, received the Corporate Community Leader Award at the Alberta Parks and Recreation Conference. Banff’s mayor applauded the recognition.

• 🏡Banff’s affordable housing plans face uncertainty as federal Minister Sean Fraser warned that Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) agreements could be cut under a change in leadership. Some see this as a political move, but Banff’s mayor stresses the town’s critical need for funding to meet housing goals.

NEW TRAPPING RULES STIR DEBATE

What’s Happening: Alberta’s government has lifted trapping limits for wolverines, lynx, river otters, and fishers in most zones for the 2024-25 season. The move opens up opportunities for trappers but has raised concerns among conservationists.

Minister’s Perspective: Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen explains that lifting the limits will allow the province to gather more accurate data on furbearer populations, as current numbers are largely unknown. Loewen, who grew up trapping, argues that this approach will support rural economies, honor Alberta’s trapping heritage, and contribute valuable insights into wildlife management.

Conservationist Concerns: Conservationists suggest that non-lethal methods should be used for population data collection, warning that further species loss could harm ecosystems.

DISCOVER LOCAL TREASURES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

Get ready to find one-of-a-kind gifts at the Bow Valley Artisan Market, held at the Bow Valley Garden Centre tomorrow (November 9)! 

From handmade jewelry and artisan purses to hand-painted cards and topographical prints, there’s something special waiting at every stall. Meet local creators showcasing gluten-free baked goods, handcrafted skincare, and art in all forms of mediums, including reclaimed work tools.

Open 10 am to 4 pm, this is your chance to shop thoughtfully, support local makers, and fill your holidays with gifts that tell a story. Make your holiday shopping personal—bring a friend, find something unexpected, and celebrate the creativity of our community!

Plus, enjoy free parking and refreshment breaks at Wagashi Tea House. 

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THINGS TO DO

Friday

• Ski and Apres. Sunshine Village opens today with Strawberry Express Quad Chair, Mitey Mite Carpet, and The Gondola. 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Sunshine Village. Discounted Early Season Lift Tickets will be in effect. 

• Games, food, and drinks. Come on in and meet new friends, socialize and have some fun with us. Happy hour runs from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM. Banff Legion, Banff. Games are free.

• Play some chess and meet fellow enthusiasts. Local chess enthusiast Eric Boerger hosts Chess Night. 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Canmore Public Library, Canmore. Free.

• Yoga at the Library. Join resident instructor, Chie Fujimaru at the Library in person for a fun and relaxing yoga class! 6:15 PM - 7:15 PM, Banff Library, Banff. Free.

• Enjoy $6 craft pints. Pop down to the pub on a Friday evening to see friends & neighbors. Happy Hour runs 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Canmore Brewing Company, Canmore. Free entry.

Saturday

• Lunch & Learn about Menopause. Trainer, Fiona Groves, shares tips for navigating peri and post-menopause. 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Mineshaft Tavern. Reserve your seat by emailing [email protected].  

• Try Curling. Participants aged 8-16 can sign up for a free "try it" event. No previous curling experience is necessary, and all equipment will be provided. 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM, Canmore Golf and Curling Club, Free.

• Ornament Painting in Exshaw. Paint an ornament for your Christmas tree! Or to gift! Hand-painted ornaments are the best gifts for anyone’s holiday decor. 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Exshaw Legion, $10 (pre-registration required).

• Banff Comedy Nights are Back, starting with Remembrance Day Comedy Night! Join stand-up comedian Brian Stoller for a laugh at his own expense. 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Lux Theatre, $25 + Fees and Taxes.

Sunday

• Griff’s Winter Gear Swap. Buy & sell quality used winter gear at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Northface Bistro, Free to Attend. 

• Pool Obstacle Course. WIBIT, the Inflatable Obstacle Course, will be set up for play at Elevation Place. 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Elevation Place, Canmore. Drop-In Fees Apply.

• Pranayama Breathwork Workshop. Join Josh for an enlightening journey into the world of Pranayama, the ancient yogic practice of breath control. 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM, Canmore Hot Yoga, $40 + Fees and Taxes.

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

• 🎶Need a Gig? The Uprising Craft Bakery is looking for musicians to play in their beautiful lounge. Please send an email to Rebecca at [email protected].

• 🎄 Mini Photo Shoot Session. Pixel Pumas Pro is looking for locals to join them for a mini photo shoot this Sunday, November 10 from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM in Canmore. Details to follow. 

• 💕Contribute to the Canmore Library’s Endowment Fund. Join in supporting the library’s growth!

• 🤝Sponsor CAMBA’s signature fundraiser, TRAIL BLAZE. Feature your company logo and help out a great cause. 

• ☕️New Coffee Shop. Check out Eclipse Roasters newest location in Dead Man’s Flats!  They’re offering $3 cafe drink specials and 20% off bags of beans all day long Saturday.

• 👋Opening Day at Norquay. Mt. Norquay Banff is targeting November 16th for an opening date. Early-season lift ticket pricing will be in effect.

• 🍻Brews and views? Here’s everything you need to know about Banff Beer Fest, which runs November 21 - 23.

• 🏇Volunteer Co-ordinator Vacancy. The Rundle Riders Therapeutic Riding Association is looking for a Volunteer for the upcoming Spring Season.

• 🫶Gear Drive. The Jasper Section of the Alpine Club of Canada is hosting a Gear Drive in support of those who lost their equipment in the wildfire. Email [email protected] to donate.

CIVIC NEWS

• This week, the Banff Fire Department is ramping up efforts to mitigate wildfire risks within the town. Residents may notice firefighters and Tree Dynamics contractors working along Mountain Avenue (highlighted in yellow on the map) to clear potential wildfire fuel.

• Following feedback from the community during a public hearing in September, the Canmore Town Council deliberated on the matter of Employee Housing in specific Industrial Districts this past Tuesday. They reviewed several amendments and ultimately approved both bylaws in question. These new regulations will discourage Employee Housing in certain Industrial Districts while permitting it in others. 

LIVE MUSIC

• Friday, November 8th, 3:00 PM: Phil Nugent. Location: Tavern 1883, Canmore. No Cover.

• Friday, November 8th, 10:00 PM: Power Houze. Location: The Drake Pub, Canmore. No Cover.

• Saturday, November 9th, 8:00 PM: An Appreciation Concert for Banff Farmers Market Musicians. Location: St. George in the Pines, Banff. $5.

• Saturday, November 9th, 9:00 PM: Shred Kelly. Location: Cornerstone Theatre, Canmore. $40 + Fees and Taxes.  

• Saturday, November 9th, 9:00 PM: Tony Berthlet. Location: Tavern 1883, Canmore, No Cover. 

• Sunday, November 10th, 7:00 PM: Voice of Hope: A Christmas Carol in the Valley. Location: ArtsPlace, Canmore. $25. 

• Sunday, November 10th, 7:30 PM: Candlelight Concert with John Goulart. Location: St. Michael’s Church Hall, Canmore. $35 + Fees and Taxes.   

SPORTS

• The Canmore Eagles hit their first losing streak, falling 3-0 to Fort McMurray. With key players out, they aim to rebound against Whitecourt on Friday. Coach and captain see this as a chance to grow through adversity.

• Nadia Moser and Adam Runnalls claimed victory in the first sprint of the Canadian biathlon trials in Canmore, with Moser leading the women’s race and Runnalls topping the men’s despite two shooting errors. The trials continue as athletes aim for spots in the upcoming World Cup and IBU Cup.

That’s all, folks!

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