Bow Falls
Alberta • Banff National Park • 9 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.2 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Bow Falls
Bow Falls is a broad, low waterfall on the Bow River just above its junction with the Spray River, just outside the Banff townsite near the Banff Springs Hotel in Banff National Park. A viewpoint sits beside a small parking area at the falls, and the Bow Falls Trail along the river connects it to downtown Banff.
The Setting
Bow Falls sits at 1,377 metres within Banff National Park, in the mountains of Alberta. The falls drop 9 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Bow Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 145-252 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating a 30-foot drop that forms the waterfall.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Bow Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
From the small parking area at the falls, the viewpoint is a few steps away. To walk from downtown instead, follow the Bow Falls Trail along the river from the Banff Avenue area; it takes about 20 minutes each way.
What to Expect
The falls drop 9 metres over layered sedimentary rock. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bow Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Dogs are allowed in Parks Canada places on a leash 3 m (about 10 ft) or shorter and must be under control at all times.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fees are required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring through early fall offers the most comfortable weather and high water flow from snowmelt. Early morning or late afternoon reduces crowds for photography. In winter the falls are still visible and often partly frozen, but access can be icy.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Banff National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery rocks and edges, especially when wet or icy; strong river currents and cold water; sudden weather changes at high elevation; and wildlife encounters. Stay on marked paths and behind barriers, supervise children closely, keep dogs leashed, and carry appropriate clothing and supplies. In winter use traction devices on footwear and allow extra time for travel.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the Water Survey of Canada gauge on Spray River, 0.9 km away, not on Bow Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
2.5 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 115 years of record
0.99 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge SPRAY RIVER AT BANFF (1 km away).
Today
Moderate
2.5 m³/s
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
2.7 m³/s
6/10Sat
Moderate
2.7 m³/s
6/10Sun
Moderate
2.6 m³/s
6/10Mon
Moderate
2.5 m³/s
6/10Tue
Moderate
2.4 m³/s
6/10Wed
Moderate
2.5 m³/s
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, cloudy (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late May to early August, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest WSC stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Banff hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Bow Falls is just outside the Banff townsite on the Bow River, near the Banff Springs Hotel. Drive to the small parking area at the falls, or walk the Bow Falls Trail along the river from Banff Avenue in about 20 minutes.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
The parking area at the falls is small and fills quickly in summer; walking from town is often easier.
Elevation
1,377 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.167410° N, -115.560901° W
Land Management
Managed by Parks Canada Agency
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Arrive early on busy summer days to find parking. • Stay behind barriers and marked edges, riverbanks and rocks can be slippery and unstable. • There is no formal lifeguard service; swimming or entering the river is dangerous due to cold water and strong currents. • Respect wildlife and keep distance, Banff is home to elk, bighorn sheep, and bears. • Check Parks Canada for current park entry requirements and road/parking advisories.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Tunnel Mountain Village I Campground
4 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Banff townsite (shops, restaurants, Banff Avenue), Banff Visitor Centre, Banff Upper Hot Springs, Tunnel Mountain, Lake Minnewanka, and the Trans-Canada Highway access to Lake Louise.
Wildlife
Common wildlife in the area includes elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and occasionally bears. Maintain distance, store food properly, and follow Parks Canada wildlife guidelines.
Cities near Bow Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Bow Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.