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
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.