Canmore Outdoor Escape Games - Smugglers Blues - Navigating the Route: Scenic Trails and Historic Plaques

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games – Smugglers Blues

Explore Canmore with this family-friendly outdoor escape game, solving puzzles on your phone as you discover scenic spots and local history over 1.5 hours.

Discover Canmore’s Hidden Mysteries with the Smugglers Blues Outdoor Escape Game

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games - Smugglers Blues - Discover Canmore’s Hidden Mysteries with the Smugglers Blues Outdoor Escape Game

The Canmore Outdoor Escape Games – Smugglers Blues offers an engaging way to explore this charming Alberta town. Priced at $61.58 per group, the experience is designed for 2 to 5 people and lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. With a mobile app guiding the adventure, this tour combines the excitement of an escape room, a scavenger hunt, and an athletic race into one seamless activity.

This game is completely outdoor, using permanent clues like signs and plaques scattered around town, making it playable any time—day or night. Its family-friendly setup and easy-to-use app make it ideal for all ages. While reviews note some disappointment about advertising images, the core experience offers stunning scenery, historic discoveries, and the chance to enjoy Canmore at your own pace.

From the Start Point in Canmore to the Final Clue

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games - Smugglers Blues - From the Start Point in Canmore to the Final Clue

The adventure begins in downtown Canmore, where you download a free app to guide you through the route. The activity is designed to be flexible, with no fixed start time and no time limit to finish. You choose when to start, making this a convenient option for spontaneous fun or planned outings.

Once the game begins, you walk along a 3 km route exploring the town’s streets, parks, and scenic pathways. The clues are outdoor signs and plaques, so no indoor locations are involved. The activity ends back at the starting point, completing a loop of discovery around Canmore.

Navigating the Route: Scenic Trails and Historic Plaques

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games - Smugglers Blues - Navigating the Route: Scenic Trails and Historic Plaques

Throughout the game, you’ll find clues that lead you to beautiful walking paths and river trails, offering amazing views of rivers and mountains. The route is designed to encourage exploration, with optional stops for shopping in local stores or enjoying the scenery. The clues are arranged to highlight Canmore’s charm and history, providing a fresh perspective on familiar sights.

While some reviews mention a discrepancy between advertising images and actual signs used, the core activity remains engaging. Players need to carefully read signs and think outside the box to solve puzzles—an activity that suits those who enjoy light mental challenges during a scenic walk.

The App and Clue Solving: User-Friendly and Supportive

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games - Smugglers Blues - The App and Clue Solving: User-Friendly and Supportive

The free app is praised for being fun and easy to operate, making the game accessible for all age groups. It offers hints if needed, helping players stay motivated to complete the adventure. This digital guide simplifies navigation and ensures everyone stays on track as they uncover clues hidden in public spots.

The app’s design allows for flexible pacing—there’s no rush to finish, so you can take your time soaking in the views or stopping for snacks along the route. The experience is set up to be inclusive, with service animals allowed and proximity to public transportation making access straightforward.

Practical Details: Booking, Group Size, and Availability

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games - Smugglers Blues - Practical Details: Booking, Group Size, and Availability

Most bookings are made about 43 days in advance, reflecting good demand for this activity. The price of $61.58 per group makes it an affordable outing for small groups or families. The activity is private, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a personalized experience.

Open every day from noon until late at night (12:00 PM – 11:30 PM) from May 30, 2019, through July 31, 2026, the game offers maximum flexibility. Its non-refundable booking policy emphasizes the importance of planning ahead, especially for those with fixed schedules.

What Makes Smugglers Blues Unique in Canmore

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games - Smugglers Blues - What Makes Smugglers Blues Unique in Canmore

Unlike indoor escape rooms, this outdoor game takes advantage of Canmore’s scenic outdoors and historic plaques. The activity’s multi-layered approach—combining scavenging, puzzle-solving, and sightseeing—creates an engaging experience that respects the town’s natural beauty and cultural spots.

The game is designed for families and small groups, making it suitable for all ages. Its self-guided format means you control the pace, whether you want a quick adventure or a leisurely exploration with plenty of stops. The absence of a strict time limit allows for relaxed enjoyment amid Canmore’s stunning scenery.

Potential Limitations and Considerations

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games - Smugglers Blues - Potential Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews mention that the advertising images previously used may have been misleading, as they suggested content not reflected in the current outdoor plaques. This may cause slight disappointment if expectations are set based on the images, but the core activity remains engaging and scenic.

Plus, as the experience relies on outdoor signs, bad weather could impact enjoyment. Participants should dress for the weather and wear comfortable footwear, especially if planning to explore the trails and paths thoroughly.

Who Will Enjoy Canmore’s Smugglers Blues Game?

This outdoor escape game is best suited for families, small groups, and anyone eager to explore Canmore at their own pace. It appeals to those who enjoy light puzzle-solving amid breathtaking scenery. The activity’s flexibility makes it a good choice for spontaneous fun or planned outings, especially for visitors wanting a blend of sightseeing and interactive play.

While not ideal for those seeking a high-intensity adventure, the tour offers a relaxed, accessible way to discover Canmore’s streets, trails, and history in a fun, engaging manner.

The Sum Up: A Scenic, Flexible Way to Discover Canmore

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games - Smugglers Blues - The Sum Up: A Scenic, Flexible Way to Discover Canmore

The Canmore Outdoor Escape Games – Smugglers Blues provides a cost-effective, family-friendly adventure that combines scenic walks, puzzle-solving, and local exploration. Its self-guided, outdoor format offers flexibility and freedom, making it easy to fit into any travel schedule. The app-based clues ensure the activity is simple to follow and accessible for all ages.

While some advertising images caused minor confusion, the core experience promises stunning views, engaging puzzles, and a personalized exploration of Canmore. Perfect for groups who enjoy outdoor activities, light mental challenges, and discovering local sights at their own pace.

This tour is a great choice for those who want a relaxed, scenic way to see Canmore’s streets, trails, and plaques—all while solving a charming 100-year-old mystery. It stands out as a versatile, outdoor adventure that brings a new perspective to exploring this Alberta town.

Ready to Book?

Canmore Outdoor Escape Games – Smugglers Blues



4.5

80% 5-star

“Our family was a little disappointed with this scavenger hunt/escape game. Mainly because of the images used to advertise the game was misleading….”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Mar 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the activity is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most bookings are made about 43 days in advance, but the activity is available any time with a self-guided schedule.

What is the price for this experience?
The cost is $61.58 per group, accommodating up to 5 people.

How long does the game last?
The activity typically takes around 90 minutes, but there’s no time limit, so you can go at your own pace.

Is the route physically demanding?
The walk covers about 3 km and involves outdoor walking paths, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Can the activity be done in bad weather?
Yes, but dress appropriately for the weather, as the game is outdoors.

What does the app do?
The free app guides you through the clues, offers hints, and helps track progress along the route.

Are there facilities along the route?
Yes, there are many local eateries and shops where you can take breaks or purchase refreshments.

What are the start and end points?
The activity begins and ends at the same location in downtown Canmore.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.