Bow Lake is one of the most stunning and accessible stops on the Icefields Parkway. Fed by the Bow Glacier above, this large turquoise lake sits in an amphitheatre of peaks and is the headwaters of the Bow River, which flows all the way through Banff, Calgary, and beyond. With a gorgeous lakeshore walk, a rewarding waterfall hike, and the historic Num-Ti-Jah Lodge on its shore, Bow Lake is a must-stop for any Icefields Parkway trip.
Getting There
Bow Lake is located at km 36 on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North), about 40 minutes north of Lake Louise. The large parking lot is right beside the lake — pull off the highway and you're there. No shuttle required. A Parks Canada pass is needed for the Icefields Parkway.
Lakeshore Walk
A flat, easy walk along the lakeshore takes you from the parking area toward the far end of the lake, with the Bow Glacier and Bow Glacier Falls visible ahead. The path is informal but well-trodden. The turquoise water, fed by glacial melt carrying fine rock flour, is at its most vivid in July and August.
The reflections on calm mornings are extraordinary — the surrounding peaks mirror perfectly in the still water. This is one of the most photographed spots on the Icefields Parkway.
Bow Glacier Falls Hike
Distance: 9.4 km return
Elevation Gain: 155 metres
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: 3–4 hours round trip
The trail to Bow Glacier Falls follows the lakeshore, crosses the gravel flats at the far end of the lake, and then climbs gently to the base of a stunning waterfall fed by the Bow Glacier above. The falls plunge over a cliff face in a wide cascade that's particularly impressive in July when snowmelt is at its peak.
The trail crosses several braided stream channels on the gravel flats — be prepared for potentially wet feet. The final approach to the falls involves some boulder-hopping. The reward is a thundering waterfall with glacier views and virtually no crowds compared to popular Banff trails.
Num-Ti-Jah Lodge
The distinctive red-roofed Num-Ti-Jah Lodge sits right on the shore of Bow Lake and has been welcoming travellers since 1937. Built by legendary guide and outfitter Jimmy Simpson, it's one of the oldest lodges in the Canadian Rockies. Stop in for a coffee, a meal in the dining room with lake views, or simply admire the historic architecture.
Photography Tips
- Sunrise: The best time for reflections and soft, warm light on the peaks. The lake faces north, so the surrounding mountains catch the early light beautifully
- Cloudy days: The turquoise colour actually pops more on overcast days when there's no glare on the surface
- Foreground elements: The rocky shoreline, Num-Ti-Jah Lodge, and wildflowers all provide excellent foreground for compositions
- Panoramic: The wide amphitheatre of peaks surrounding the lake begs for a panoramic shot — use your phone's pano mode or stitch multiple frames
Seasonal Tips
- Summer (July–August): Best conditions, vivid water colour, wildflowers, waterfall at peak flow
- Fall (September): Quieter, golden larches on the slopes above, cooler temperatures
- Winter: The Icefields Parkway can be closed during storms. Check road conditions before driving. The lake is frozen and the area is beautiful but services at the lodge may be limited
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