
Cycle the Bow Valley Parkway
The smooth paved roads of the Bow Valley Parkway beckon to cycling enthusiasts. Aside from the meandering route of the road, the rich forests stretching skyward on either side feel virtually untouched. The road travels 58 km along meadows and marshes known to be moose habitat, over bubbling creeks and past a landscape marked by wildfire. The first 17 km from Banff are closed to vehicles seasonally, in the spring (May 1 - June 25, 2025) and the fall (August 28 to October 2, 2025) creating an unforgettable cycling track.
Good To Know
- Difficulty
- Easy to Moderate
- Duration
- 1-3 hrs or 3-6 hrs
- When
- May - June and September
Plan Ahead
Parking is limited at the start of the road. Park at the Banff Train Station and start your ride from there.
Location
- Distance from Banff:
- 7km
- Distance from Lake Louise:
- 28km
When to go
Operating Dates
Month | Operating Status |
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Opening Times
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Busy Times
Weekends
Local Tips
Pack a lunch and plenty of water and stop at one of the many picnic areas to enjoy it.
New to biking? E-bikes are a fun and easy way to explore the parkway, no intense pedaling required! Just bring a sense of adventure and an average level of fitness.
Keep your eyes peeled - wildlife love this roadway as much as you do! Spot them from a safe distance and give them plenty of space to roam. 30m distance for elk, deer, sheep, and moose. 100 m distance for bears, wolves, and cougars.
Adventure smart: carry bear spray and know how to use it. Stick with your group and make plenty of noise to avoid surprising wildlife.
Getting There
If you're driving and bringing your own bike, parking is available at the train station parking lot in Banff. From there, make your way to Vermilion Lakes drive, follow the Legacy trail and then onto the Bow Valley Parkway.
If you're renting a bike in town you can ride from town to the Bow Valley Parkway. Your rental provider will give you directions.
More Information
Book your bike online in advance to ensure availability. See a full list of providers below.
Book a guided e-bike tour with Banff Cycle + Sport, White Mountain Adventures or Banff Adventures and rely on your expert guide for navigation, cycling tips and engaging commentary as you explore the parkway.
Useful Links
Let's do this!
Bike rentals available from