Cycle the Bow Valley Parkway

Cycling the Bow Valley Parkway is one of the most scenic bike rides in Banff National Park. This 58 km paved route winds through forests, meadows, wetlands, and mountain landscapes between Banff and Lake Louise, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as moose, elk, and bears. The parkway showcases the natural beauty and ecological diversity of the Canadian Rockies, from bubbling creeks and marshes to areas shaped by wildfire renewal. Each spring from May 1 to June 25, 2026 and again in the fall from September 1 to October 6, 2026, the first 17 km of the Bow Valley Parkway from Banff closes to vehicle traffic, creating a unique car-free cycling experience and one of the best opportunities to explore the Bow Valley Parkway by bike.

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
Jan	Closed
Feb	Closed
Mar	Closed
Apr	Closed
May	Open
Jun	Open
Jul	Closed
Aug	Closed
Sep	Open
Oct	Closed
Nov	Closed
Dec	Closed

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.