The Ultimate Guide to Biking the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park

The 1A Bow Valley Parkway is the original highway through Banff National Park. Today, visitors mostly travel through the park via the faster Trans-Canada Highway, but the 1A offers a slower, more scenic route. It winds through towering mountains, with access to popular viewpoints and trails along the way.

The parkway stretches 50 km from just outside the Banff townsite at the Fireside Day-Use Area to just before the Lake Louise Ski Resort. You can drive it, cycle it, hike it, or take Roam Transit to explore.

The eastern section of the parkway closes to public vehicles twice yearly, giving cyclists and hikers a rare chance to enjoy the road without traffic. This pilot project has been extended for another five years, starting in May 2025, making planning a visit around these vehicle-free periods even easier.

When is the Bow Valley Parkway closed to vehicles?

May 1 to June 25, 2025 and in the Fall (Dates Coming Soon)

From May 1 to June 25, 2025, a 17 km stretch of the Bow Valley Parkway—between the Fireside Day-Use Area and Johnston Canyon—is closed to public motor vehicles. During this time, it’s all yours to explore by bike, on foot, or any other non-motorized way you like.

Local's Tip: Parks Canada and emergency services will still use the parkway, so you’ll still need to remain vehicle-aware.

How Difficult is it to Bike the Bow Valley Parkway?

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance:

• The vehicle-free section is 17 km one way from Banff to Johnston Canyon
• Downtown Banff to Johnston Canyon is 25 km one-way.
• The full road is 58 km one way between Banff and Lake Louise.

Elevation Gain:

• 138 meters between Banff and Johnston Canyon
• 340 metres from Banff to Lake Louise

The Bow Valley Parkway is one of Banff National Park's most scenic bike rides. It’s a great option for all levels of riders, thanks to its gentle climbs, sweeping views, and plenty of spots to stop and take a break. The best part? You can turn around anytime, making it as long or as short as you’d like.

While the full road can be a challenge, especially if you're going all the way to Lake Louise, most people find the closed section between Banff and Johnston Canyon to be an easy to moderate ride.

What to Bring:

• Helmet
• Bear spray
• Water
• Snacks
• Camera
• Cellphone

Local's Tip: You can buy bear spray at several local stores, including Monod Sports and Ultimate Sports.

Guided Biking Tours along the Bow Valley Parkway

A guided bike tour is one of the best ways to explore the Bow Valley Parkway, especially if you want to connect with nature and learn more about the area as you go.

With an expert guide, you’ll discover stories about the landscape, spot local wildlife, and gain insight into the unique ecosystem of Banff National Park. It’s a great way to dive deeper into the experience without worrying about planning or logistics.

These tours are perfect for all skill levels, including first-time e-bike riders. Several local companies offer guided options, including:

• Banff Cycle and Sport: Johnston Canyon E-Bike and Explore Experience
• White Mountain Adventures: Ebike & Hike tour Johnston Canyon
• Banff Adventures: Banff to Johnston Canyon

Whether you're looking for adventure, insight, or a bit of both, a guided tour makes it easy to enjoy the ride.

Where to Rent an E-bike or Bike in Banff & Lake Louise

Renting an e-bike or analogue bike in Banff and Lake Louise is easy, with plenty of options to choose from (each location rents both analogue bikes and e-bikes):

• Banff Adventures
• Banff Cycle
• Bear Street Outfitters
• Black Diamond Bike and SUP Rentals
• Snowtips-Bactrax Ski & Bike Rental
• Ultimate Sports
• Wilson Mountain Sports (Lake Louise)
• Chateau Mountain Sports

Where to Park to Bike the Bow Valley Parkway

If you're planning to drive, the best place to park is in the Banff townsite. There are two free lots available:

• Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre
• Train Station Public Parking Lot

Both are just off the Mt. Norquay entrance to Banff and offer easy access to the start of the Bow Valley Parkway.

The Fenlands lot is across the road from the Banff sign. For the train station lot, turn left just after the train tracks and take the third exit at the roundabout.

If you're coming from Lake Louise, another option is Johnston Canyon Parking Lot 2. Take the traffic circle turnoff at Johnston Canyon and follow the signs to lot 2.

Important Tip:
Parking fills up early, especially on weekends and during good weather. To skip the stress, consider leaving your car behind. You can take regional transportation into Banff and rent a bike once you arrive. It's an easy, eco-friendly way to start your adventure.

Where to Start to Ride Your Bike on the Bow Valley Parkway

To bike the Bow Valley Parkway, especially the car-free section, you’ll want to start in the town of Banff. Start in downtown Banff from your bike rental location or at either the Fenlands or Train Station parking lots, then head toward Vermilion Lakes Road.

This scenic road winds past the peaceful waters of Vermilion Lakes, with stunning views of Mount Rundle reflected in the water. At the end of the road, head onto the Legacy Trail connector, which leads straight to the Bow Valley Parkway.

From here, you can enjoy a mostly car-free ride all the way to Johnston Canyon. If you’re feeling up for a longer ride, continue along the whole 1A route toward the Lake Louise Ski Resort and Summer Sightseeing Gondola.

Don’t forget that you’ll need to bike back or hop on Roam Transit, which allows a limited number of bikes on board. Roam Transit can fill up quickly in the summer, so it's best to book in advance if possible.

Local’s Tip: E-bikes are only allowed on bike racks if the battery can be removed and brought onto the bus with you.

How Far is it to Bike the Bow Valley Parkway?

• Downtown Banff to Johnston Canyon (return): 56 km round trip
• Full Bow Valley Parkway (Banff to Lake Louise): 58 km one way / 115 km round trip
• Eastern vehicle-free section: 17 km one-way

If you're biking from the Banff Train Station to Johnston Canyon and back, you'll cover about 56 km. A full and scenic day out on two wheels. Along the way, you’ll pass mountain views, wildlife lookouts, and plenty of peaceful spots to stop and take it all in.

The entire Bow Valley Parkway stretches about 58 km each way between Banff and Lake Louise. If you're planning to ride the full length, make sure you’re prepared with lots of water, snacks, and a fully charged phone or camera—and remember, it’s a 115 km round trip.

Where can I Eat while Biking the Bow Valley Parkway?

There are limited options for food along the 1A. If you aren’t venturing past Johnston Canyon from Banff, you’ll want to grab a quick picnic in town to take with you. Try getting a sandwich from Wild Flour on Bear Street, a burger from Eddie Burger on Caribou, or pizza from locally and family-owned Aardvark Pizza and Sub.

Better yet, head back to town and celebrate your ride on one of the scenic patios, where you can enjoy views of Mount Rundle, Mt. Norquay, Cascade, and Sulphur Mountain.

Wildlife on the Bow Valley Parkway

The Bow Valley Parkway is a haven for wildlife, offering a diverse range of habitats that attract a variety of species. From the majestic elk grazing in the meadows to the elusive wolves prowling in the forest, the parkway is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. You might also spot bears, coyotes, and bighorn sheep along the route.

The parkway’s lower elevation, diverse vegetation, and ample sunshine make it an ideal habitat for these animals. Birdwatchers will also be delighted with the variety of bird species that call this area home.

When biking amongst this rich wildlife, safety should be your top priority. Always maintain a safe distance from animals and never attempt to feed or approach them. Remember, you are in their home and it’s important to respect their space. Make sure to stay on the designated trails and avoid biking at dawn or dusk when wildlife is most active.

Lastly, it’s a good idea to carry bear spray and know how to use it. Always check for wildlife advisories before you set out on your biking adventure. Enjoy the ride, but remember to leave no trace and help preserve the beauty of the Bow Valley Parkway.

Parks Canada is also helping to protect the wildlife of this area by instuiting a full closure on the Bow Valley Parkway to all vehicles and people from 8 pm to 8 am from March 1 to June 25, as the area acts as a wildlife corridor. This gives the animals the space they need to thrive during the crucial spring period.

Where are there Rest Stops on the Bow Valley Parkway

The Bow Valley Parkway has a number of fabulous picnic and restroom stops that you can take along your journey. Here are a few you can stop at while doing your bike ride from Banff to Johnston Canyon.

When biking along the Bow Valley Parkway, it’s important to know about the restroom facilities available along the route. Most of the facilities along the parkway are pit toilets, which are simple and eco-friendly but do not have running or potable water. These facilities are designed to have a minimal impact on the environment, but they also require users to come prepared with their own water and hand sanitizer.

• Between Lakes Two and Three on Vermilion Lakes Road: This quiet spot has a pit toilet facility. If you are looking for somewhere to picnic, stop along the shores of Lake Two or Three.
• Mule Shoe: This is a large, beautiful picnic area along the Bow Valley Parkway. It’s a great spot to stop for a scenic break along the shores of tranquil Mule Shoe Lake. Located in a rare section of montane forest in Banff National Park, this area is rich in wildlife. It also has a pit toilet facility.
• Sawback: A beautiful forested stop along the route equipped with picnic tables and a pit toilet facility. This is a great spot to stop in the shade before your final push to Johnston Canyon.
• Johnston Canyon: This popular canyon not only offers a spectacular hiking trail that leads to a series of stunning waterfalls, but it also has washrooms with running water. This could be a perfect picnic spot before, during or after your hike.
• Storm Mountain Lookout: If you continue past Johnston Canyon, you could stop here for a fantastic view. You’ll find a handful of picnic tables above the beautiful Bow River with views towards Storm Mountain. The interpretive signage outlines the ridgeline well, so leave yourself some time to check it out.

Remember, these facilities provide basic amenities, but it’s always a good idea to come prepared when biking in Banff National Park. Carry enough water, hand sanitizer, and other personal necessities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

If you are riding past Johnston Canyon or the whole length of the parkway, you have a few other options.

About halfway between Castle Mountain junction and the Lake Louise Ski Resort, you’ll find Baker Creek Resort. This is an incredible place for an overnight stay or to pick up a quick bite from the Creekside Café, which offers grab-and-go options.

You can find everything from grab-and-go to sit-down meal options at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, like the Lodge of Ten Peaks Café. Or head just a bit further and into the village of Lake Louise, where you can get wraps, coffee, and desserts from Laggan's Mountain Bakery and Deli or Trailhead Café.

What to Expect When Biking the Bow Valley Parkway

The Bow Valley Parkway is one of Banff National Park’s most scenic and rewarding rides. With stunning viewpoints, picnic areas, and photo-worthy mountain backdrops, expect to stop often to soak it all in.

While the route is mostly gentle, there are a few long hills that can sneak up on you. Be ready to shift into your lowest gear or use full power on your e-bike to make the climbs more manageable.

This area is also an active wildlife corridor, home to bears, deer, bighorn sheep, and more. Always stay alert and make regular noise (like chatting with your riding buddy) to avoid surprising animals. Bear spray should be kept somewhere you can reach it quickly and not buried in your bag.

Whether you're up for an independent adventure or want a local expert to guide the way, renting a bike or joining a guided tour is the perfect way to experience the Bow Valley Parkway for yourself.