Albertans have a dicey history with alcohol. From 1916 to 1923, we were under a province-wide prohibition — but that didn’t stop Albertans from enjoying a drink. The Crowsnest Pass, three and a half hours from Banff National Park, became a notorious smuggling route for banned beer, liquor and wine. Nearly 100 years have passed since then, and it’s pretty clear in the Bow Valley that we still love our beer and spirits. Grab your friends and set a course to participate in a Bow Valley pub crawl to see the difference locally made can make.
Enjoy a pint at Three Bears on Bear St, photo by Three Bears Brewery and Restaurant.
Does a bear drink in the woods? It does now. With an on-site brewery, stargazing retractable roof, beer garden, and a 25 ft pine tree smack dab in the middle of the building, Three Bears Brewery and Restaurant brings the outside in with their unique forest-themed eatery. Perfect for adventurers of all levels, this is a great place to grab a small-batch brew on their patio with your crew.
Our drink of choice: Happy Trails Pale Ale
Located in the landmark Clock Tower Village Mall, Banff Ave Brewing Co. is a local institution. As Banff's first brewery, it is a must on your pub crawl map. Banff Ave Brewing draws inspiration from its dynamic community, and you're sure to feel at home the moment you take your first sip. With a large selection of on-site-made beer, you'll find face-slapping IPAs and easy-drinking ales.
Our drink of choice: Head Smashed IPA
As the first (and only) distillery in Banff National Park, Park Distillery + Restaurant + Bar, is a pioneer of distinct flavours. How many distilleries can say they use pure glacier water to create their libations? Park Distillery's small-batch, award-winning spirits are hand-milled, mashed and distilled to preserve the purity of their ingredients. From smokey to piney, there's a flavour for every mood.
Our drink of choice: Emerald Lake cocktail
Toast to friends and good times at the Grizzly Paw Pub, photo by Grizzly Paw Brewing Co.
For 25 years, the Grizzly Paw Brewing Co. has been providing Bow Valley locals and visitors with handcrafted beers and sensational sodas. With that classic Canadian hospitality, every pint is poured properly and contains quality, freshness and flavour. Visit their classic Grizzly Paw Pub for a cozy atmosphere and friendly banter. Tank310 is Grizzly Paw Brewing’s newest addition to the family as their scenic tasting room above their brewery. With two places to enjoy locally brewed flavours, it’s hard to pick which is our favourite.
Our drink of choice: Rutting Elk Red or Black Cherry Cola
Herd up the group and head over to Sheepdog Brewing. This small-batch craft microbrewery focuses on keeping its taps rotating with a variety of flavours and beer styles. Sheepdog Brewing boasts up to 16 different beers, you can sample a plethora of textures and styles of homespun options. Sheepdog Brewing is also responsible for bringing the first locally made cider to the Bow Valley! With friendly service and a chilled-out atmosphere, a stop at Sheepdog will keep you coming back for more.
Our drink of choice: Juicy Rumour IPA
Combine Wild Life Gin, lemon, grapefruit syrup and sage to make The Ho, photo by Wild Life Distillery.
Opened in 2017, Wild Life Distillery continues to uphold its commitment to producing 100% Alberta-grain based spirits. Their extreme attention to detail and pursuit of personal betterment have made Wild Life Distillery one of the most well-known local options for lively and quality cocktails. Stop by the distillery to enjoy an expertly made cocktail on their patio.
Our drink of choice: The Ho cocktail
Crafted at 1,309 metres, does it get purer than this? Canmore Brewing Company creates all their beers with the inspiration of sharing stories and good times with friends while having a pint. People come first at Canmore Brewing, and they strive to be a positive part of the community they call home. With seven core beers, everyone in the group is sure to find something they like.
Our drink of choice: Ten Peaks Pale Ale
Visit us at the Adventure Hub and rent an e-bike! You can also reserve your e-bike ahead of time so you can pick up the bike and go. Please remember to drink responsibly, and never drive or ride under the influence.
