Overview
Bow Lake is a glacial lake located in Banff National Park, Alberta. It is known for its stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain views.
Bow Lake is a popular spot for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing. It is also a key location in the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the world.
Location
Address
Improvement District No. 9, Alberta
Neighborhood: Banff National Park
Coordinates
51.374200, -115.909500
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June to September
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to cool
- • spring wildflowers
- • waterfalls
summer
warm to hot
- • all trails open
- • boat rentals
autumn
cool to cold
- • fall colors
- • clear skies
winter
cold, snowy
- • snowshoeing trails
- • ice skating
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather conditions
- Bring layers
- Prepare for altitude
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • altitude sickness
- • cold weather
Medical facilities: first aid kits available, nearest medical center in Banff
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
CAD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, layers, hiking shoes, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, inappropriate clothing for weather
Booking Tips
- • not required, but recommended for guided tours
- • official Banff National Park website
- • varies by tour operator
- • not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Parks Canada App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Map, Trail information, Park alerts
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Calgary International Airport
Distance: 180 km
Travel Time: 2 hours
From City Center
Distance: 130 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere
Historical Significance: Part of the historic Icefields Parkway, important for transportation and tourism
Insider Tips
- Free parking early morning
- Best food at nearby Num-Ti-Jah Lodge
Local Recommendations
- • Try local huckleberry treats
- • Ask for guide Sarah
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Bow Lake Overlook
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle for landscapes
Result: Stunning mountain and lake views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Lake Louise
Distance: 26 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Lake
Moraine Lake
Distance: 13 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Lake
Peyto Lake
Distance: 55 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Lake
Reviews
Based on 10,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early"
- "Bring layers"
- "Great for photography"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Abraham IceBubble, Peyto, Bow Lake with Snowshoeing& Icewalk
Lake Louise, Moraine/Bow, Emerald & Peyto - 4 Lakes in Banff
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2025 Winner-Lake Louise Moraine Lake Johnston Canyon Banff Town
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Peyto Lake, Bow Lake Lake Louise Moraine Lake Half Day Tour
Lake Louise Moraine Lake Emerald Lake Yoho Banff National Park
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway Full-Day Tour
Moraine Lake, Lake Louise Johnston Canyon Banff National Park
Lake Louise Peyto Lake Bow Lake Crowfoot Glacier Half Day Tour
Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, Bow Falls, Banff Town
Banff: Lake Louise, Marble Canyon, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour
Banff Gondola Hot spring and Lake Louise day tour
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, Crowfoot, Johnston Canyon
Lake Minnewanka, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake , Icefields
Banff and its Wildlife - Year Round Tour
Banff Lake Louise Moraine, Emerald Glacier, Peyto & Bow Lake
Share Tour to Lake Louise Johnston Canyon, Bow Falls & Minnewanka
Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise & Banff: Small-Group Day Tour
Calgary/Banff: Gondola, Upper Hot Spring, Bow Fall & Top 3 Lakes
Along Icefields Parkway: Peyto Lake, Bow Lake & Columbia Icefield
Lake Louise Moraine Emerald Lake Johnston Canyon Banff Yoho Tour
Lake Louise Johnston Canyon Peyto Lake Icefields Parkway Daytrip
Banff Morning Tour Scenic Highlights and Gondola Ride
Quick Info
Available Tours
112
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
10,000
Adult Entry
$10.50 (park entry fee)