Planning a trip to Calgary’s mountains? You probably want ideas on where to stay then – and when it comes to that, our top recommendation is a classic mountain cabin!
If you don’t know which mountain cabins to choose, you’re on the right page. We’ll talk about our picks for the best options below.
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Which are the best comfy mountain cabins in Calgary?
Calgary has plenty of comfy mountain cabins, with some of the best options being Bearberry Cabins, Cathedral Mountain Lodge, Big Horn Cabin, Elf Lake Cabin, and the highly popular Storm Mountain Lodge.
These cabins offer many activities and let you enjoy the wonders of Calgary’s six named mountains up close.
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, check out the details on the coziest mountain cabins within Calgary’s proximity.
Bearberry Cabins
Bearberry Cabins are a great option if you want to be surrounded by nature that is ripe with outdoor activities that will get your blood pumping. There are also more relaxing trails that are perfect for nature walks, bird watching, or a light horseback ride.
During the winter, you can even go ice fishing, dog sledding, and snow-shoeing. You can also go ATV riding and snowmobiling, though you must first get permission to access the trails you can use for those activities.
Because everything is stocked, you can choose to just stay indoors and enjoy the cabin’s delights. If your main goal is to get out there and enjoy the fresh air, you’ll find ample ground for swimming, boating, and just taking in the view.
If you’re thinking about heading over to Bearberry Cabins, this information should be of note to you:
- If you’re driving from Calgary, you’ll be facing a 153-kilometer drive if you follow the fastest route. This will take you about two hours if you don’t travel during rush hour.
- Check-in time is at 3:00 PM.
- This is a smoke-free property, so you are not allowed to smoke anywhere in the area.
Cathedral Mountain Lodge
The Cathedral Mountain Lodge is a truly fascinating and inviting lodge that is perfect for people seeking out alone time in nature. The best part about their location is the Canadian Rockies in all of its splendor.
You can pick between the Cathedral Twin Cabins, Cathedral King Cabins, Premier Cabins with Loft, and Premier Cabins. No matter what you pick, each cabin is cozy yet architecturally impressive.
If you’re looking to do more than just snuggle up in your cabin or meditate in the woods, you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of activities you can enjoy in the surrounding lands. Banff National Park isn’t far off, either.
Depending on the time of year, you can also enjoy a wildlife tour or a glacier tour. They do away with TVs and phones, so you really get immersed in the surrounding nature.
If you’re thinking about heading over to Cathedral Mountain Lodge, this information should be of note to you:
- The rates here are also subject to change depending on season and occupancy.
- If you’re going by car, it’s quite a bit of a drive at 203 kilometers. Without traffic, this should take you two and a half hours.
- Check-in time is 4:00 PM.
- This is a smoke-free property, but guests are allowed to smoke if they do so far from the cabins and main lodge area.
Big Horn Cabin
The Big Horn Cabin is not part of a larger lodge, so it’s a solo property that you can reserve for yourself. You can book it on Airbnb or visit the page on Facebook.
If you’re looking to have a big group on your getaway, Big Horn Cabin is hard to beat. You have the whole place to yourself, but there is an on-site housekeeper that helps you with your necessities.
Although there is no designated parking lot, you can bring up to five vehicles and park them by the side of the cabin. Within the property, there is also a Little Horn cabin nearby as a separate rental.
The cabin itself is truly gorgeous in design, and it provides the perfect isolated space to enjoy the environment. This is the place to be if you’re seeking out that distinctive luxury outdoor vibe.
While there are no official tours, you will be in close proximity to lots of local wildlife. Of course, it’s important to follow the cabin owner’s guidelines carefully so that you don’t draw the wildlife to the actual cabin.
If you’re thinking about heading over to Big Horn Cabin, this information should be of note to you:
- For security purposes, the owner only provides you an exact location pin once you’ve booked the place. It’s only a five-minute journey from Nordegg, though.
- It should take you around three hours to drive from Calgary to Nordegg, as it is a 308-kilometer ride.
- Check-in time is 4:00 PM.
- This is a smoke-free property, but you’re allowed to smoke outside of the cabin.
Elk Lakes Cabin
Elk Lakes Cabin is a truly cozy cabin that does away with many frills, allowing for its prices to be in the lower range. It is operated by the Alpine Club of Canada but is accessible even to non-members.
It’s a great spot whether you’re going solo or bringing your family along. While known for its ski touring and ice climbing offers, you could find plenty of wonderful activities during the Spring or Summer, too.
The facilities here can hold up to 14 guests, though it’s best enjoyed by groups of four to six. There are mattress pads available, but you are encouraged to bring a sleeping bag.
If you’re thinking about heading over to Elk Lakes Cabin, this information should be of note to you:
- Despite not technically being the farthest cabin on this list, the best route to get here will take you around four hours. This is roughly a 360-kilometer journey.
- Smoking is not allowed on the property.
Storm Mountain Lodge
Storm Mountain Lodge is arguably one of the most popular options for people who want to head to the mountains from Calgary. Despite its unassuming vibe, you get top-tier food, amenities, and service.
You can choose from log cabins, family cabins, and pine cabins. The sizes and beds differ, but all cabins feature a wood-burning fireplace.
The comfy cabins are very rustic in nature and are just the right distance from everything. You’re isolated enough if you please, but also don’t have to travel too far if you want to get in on all the activities available to you.
You are right in Banff National Park, so you can easily enjoy the outdoor magic that only the Rockies can provide. It’s like finding a nice little getaway tucked within the stunning foliage of the area.
If you’re thinking about heading over to Storm Mountain Lodge, this information should be of note to you:
- This is another relatively close cabin, only 162 kilometers away. You should be able to get there via car in around an hour and 45 minutes.
- Check-in time is 4:00 PM.
- You are not allowed to smoke in public areas.