Bow River Trail to Bow Falls
Quite likely Banff’s most easily reached hike. The Bow Falls Trail delivers much more than you might expect from a 1.2 km walk. Fuel up with a velvety latte or an ice cream and set out right from downtown Banff over the Banff Pedestrian Bridge.
The wooded trail along the river stays cool even on the sunniest of days, leading to an intriguing wooden staircase ascending above the trees. The viewpoint above cascading Bow Falls will make you stop in your tracks – and pull out your camera - before descending to feel the mist of the falls below.
Good To Know
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 1-3 hrs
- When
- Year Round
Location
- Distance from Banff:
- 1km
- Distance from Lake Louise:
- 57km
When to go
Operating Dates
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Local Tips
From July to September you can experience the Art In Nature Trail along this path.
In the winter, gear up on crampons or ice cleats for this trail, the stairs to the falls can get icy and slippery!
Don't miss a photo opportunity on the Banff Pedestrian Bridge, the views of Cascade Mountain are stunning.
More Information
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.2 km one way from Central Park to Bow Falls
Elevation gain: 50 m
Hiking time: 30 minutes one way
Trailhead: Central Park, Banff