Bow Falls
Alberta • Banff National Park • 9 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
2.7 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
60 m
About Bow Falls
Bow Falls is a major waterfall on the Bow River, Alberta just before the junction of it and the Spray River. They are located near the Banff Springs Hotel and golf course on the left-hand side of River Road.
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
There is no long trail required to visit Bow Falls. A short paved walkway from the parking/viewpoint area leads to several overlooks with views of the falls and Bow River. The surface is generally paved or compacted gravel; the loop through the immediate viewpoint area is short and suitable for most visitors.
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
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees 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
13.4 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 114 years of record
1.33 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
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 located just west of downtown Banff, approximately 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from the town center. From Banff Avenue follow signs toward the Bow River / Bow Falls viewpoint; there is a small parking area and paved walkways leading to viewpoints. Lake Louise is about 39.3 miles (63 km) to the northwest along the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1).
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Small parking lot and some roadside parking near the Bow Falls viewpoint. Parking in Banff may be metered or subject to Parks Canada vehicle entry rules; spaces can fill quickly in summer and on holiday weekends.
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.
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This easy 2.7 km hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
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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.
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