Bow Valley Parkway
Bow Valley Parkway
4.5
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- WendyLP8888Saint-Lazare, Canada20 contributionsBeautiful landscapeDriving through this valley is breathtaking. It is so tranquil and beautiful. I have been through this valley three times, in November 2018, November 2020 and December 2022. I have seen it with snow and without snow and as the picture depicts you can see beautiful clear blue water.Visited December 2022Written March 29, 2023
- Vacationer5575373 contributionsA little pricey but worth the visitMade a quick (2 overnight visit with adult son and 2 children, 8 & 12). View of mountains wonderful. Town of Banff has done fairly good job of creating alpine architecture (better than 50 years ago when I spent a winter there). One grandson and I took gondola up Sulfur Mountain (other grandson gets motion sickness). Ride and vistas were spectactular! There are also some nice walking paths along the water in the town.Visited April 2023Written April 14, 2023
- MPP2703Caythorpe, United Kingdom1,763 contributionsA better route to/from Jasper.If you are planning to go to/from Jasper, please use this road instead of the main road. It's quieter with some stunning scenery and if you are lucky, some local wildlife. It is a far better route than the main trans Canada road. The only issue for us, is that the beginning of the road just iutside Banff did not open until later in June, shame.Visited June 2023Written June 17, 2023
- Journey4two191 contributionsMajestic Scenary!My wife and I rented an e-bike in Banff and rode the Bow Valley Parkway, which was closed to vehicular traffic for the summer. We began our ride at 8 am and practically had the Parkway to ourselves. We saw deer, mountain goats and a bear, which made it memorable. The e-bikes made the 30+ mile ride a breeze (especially during the uphill portions), and it gave us a chance to casually observe the scenic ride. It is truly one of the most beautiful rides in the world! When the road splits, just stay on the right (as the sign indicates) and you'll get to enjoy both sides of the majestic beauty throughout the ride. After exploring the Johnston Canyon, we had lunch at the cafe, which had great food. (Johnson Canyon is just past the end of the closed portion of the Parkway.) This was an awesome experience, so be sure to do it!Visited June 2023Written June 26, 2023
- AnnBlaineLexington, South Carolina6 contributionsDefinitely worth the driveVery peaceful drive from Johnston Canyon up to Lake Louise/Icefield Parkway entrance. Some scenic overlooks. Nothing compared to the Icefield Parkway, but definitely worth doing, especially since the Trans Canada highway was doing road construction. Unfortunately when we were there, they had the lower part of the parkway closed to vehicle traffic.Visited June 2023Written July 7, 2023
- TennisStar602New Jersey612 contributionsThis is not turn on the road and I did get to see a big-horn sheep.I took this road as a more local route throughout some of the attractions in Banff National Park. Johnston Canyon was off of this route, for example. This roadway has a lower speed limit than Highway-1, and it was only one (1) lane in both directions. This road does have some sharp turns and curves. I saw a big-horn sheep, and that was a very cool encounter.Visited July 2023Travelled soloWritten July 13, 2023
- Christina BLouisiana2,712 contributionsBeautiful DriveWe drove along here a few times. Heading to explore Banff from Castle Junction. Then we also stopped to see Silverton Falls .. park by Rock Bound Lake hike. Also went to Johnston Canyon. A must see.. do the full 1 1/2 miles if you can. We did not see any wildlife, but the views were great !!Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten July 23, 2023
- Martin CThornhill, Canada17 contributionsBeautiful quiet driveIn November, this was a mostly deserted drive through trees and lakes and mountains. It's not fast and it's not crowded, which was perfect for our purposes. If you have the time, this is a much more relaxed and scenic way to go between Banff and Lake Louise.Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten November 29, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
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Excellent
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Average
168
Poor
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Terrible
12
Martin C
Thornhill, Canada17 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Family
In November, this was a mostly deserted drive through trees and lakes and mountains. It's not fast and it's not crowded, which was perfect for our purposes. If you have the time, this is a much more relaxed and scenic way to go between Banff and Lake Louise.
Written November 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LostInTime
Pittsburgh, PA11,608 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Business
This road is pretty nice. There are great views. It doesn’t take a lot of extra time as it runs parallel to the highway. And I saw a bear. Pretty nice.
Written October 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ryan O
2 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Couples
Beautiful scenery but not much wildlife. Long slow drive up the parkway was relaxing but a but boring compared to previous reviews
Written September 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chantel C
Edmonton, Canada88 contributions
May 2023 • Friends
Absolutely beautiful. The hike to the falls at the lake was gorgeous. We got rained on the in, but it was so worth not turning around.
Written August 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christina B
Louisiana2,712 contributions
Jul. 2023 • Couples
We drove along here a few times. Heading to explore Banff from Castle Junction. Then we also stopped to see Silverton Falls .. park by Rock Bound Lake hike. Also went to Johnston Canyon. A must see.. do the full 1 1/2 miles if you can. We did not see any wildlife, but the views were great !!
Written July 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TennisStar602
New Jersey612 contributions
Jul. 2023 • Solo
I took this road as a more local route throughout some of the attractions in Banff National Park. Johnston Canyon was off of this route, for example. This roadway has a lower speed limit than Highway-1, and it was only one (1) lane in both directions. This road does have some sharp turns and curves. I saw a big-horn sheep, and that was a very cool encounter.
Written July 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AnnBlaine
Lexington, SC6 contributions
Jun. 2023
Very peaceful drive from Johnston Canyon up to Lake Louise/Icefield Parkway entrance. Some scenic overlooks. Nothing compared to the Icefield Parkway, but definitely worth doing, especially since the Trans Canada highway was doing road construction. Unfortunately when we were there, they had the lower part of the parkway closed to vehicle traffic.
Written July 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Journey4two
191 contributions
Jun. 2023
My wife and I rented an e-bike in Banff and rode the Bow Valley Parkway, which was closed to vehicular traffic for the summer. We began our ride at 8 am and practically had the Parkway to ourselves. We saw deer, mountain goats and a bear, which made it memorable. The e-bikes made the 30+ mile ride a breeze (especially during the uphill portions), and it gave us a chance to casually observe the scenic ride. It is truly one of the most beautiful rides in the world! When the road splits, just stay on the right (as the sign indicates) and you'll get to enjoy both sides of the majestic beauty throughout the ride. After exploring the Johnston Canyon, we had lunch at the cafe, which had great food. (Johnson Canyon is just past the end of the closed portion of the Parkway.) This was an awesome experience, so be sure to do it!
Written June 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MPP2703
Caythorpe, UK1,763 contributions
Jun. 2023
If you are planning to go to/from Jasper, please use this road instead of the main road. It's quieter with some stunning scenery and if you are lucky, some local wildlife. It is a far better route than the main trans Canada road. The only issue for us, is that the beginning of the road just iutside Banff did not open until later in June, shame.
Written June 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vacationer557537
3 contributions
Apr. 2023
Made a quick (2 overnight visit with adult son and 2 children, 8 & 12). View of mountains wonderful. Town of Banff has done fairly good job of creating alpine architecture (better than 50 years ago when I spent a winter there). One grandson and I took gondola up Sulfur Mountain (other grandson gets motion sickness). Ride and vistas were spectactular!
There are also some nice walking paths along the water in the town.
There are also some nice walking paths along the water in the town.
Written April 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JBRetired
Apple Valley, CA472 contributions
Is this a loop drive? How long is the drive?
pdabmo
Singapore, null, Singapore38 contributions
Not really a loop. You join Highway 1A (aka Bow Valley Parkway at this point) just after Mt Norquay heading west from Banff. It ends at the Lake Louise Ski Resort Road.. it is about 50km- approx. 30 miles. You could make it a loop by returning on the Trans Canada to Banff area. If you turn left at the Lake Louise Ski Resort Road you can join the Trans Canada there or cross it to go to Lake Louse Itself and Chateau Lake Louse further up the road. Even further up the road is Moraine Lake- a beautiful hiking trail esp. in the fall. Cheers!
lemeister
san antonio,tx18 contributions
where bear sightings north of johnson canyon
we had no luck from banff to johnson canyon
Lakotaone
New Hampshire63 contributions
You need to get there either early in the morning...or at dusk. We saw about four when we were there. We had easy access though. Our lodge was nearest the one entrance that was open thruout the day/night.
kds51
Avon Lake, OH14 contributions
Are there any restrictions on Bow Valley Parkway for truck-campers? Width, height or length?
treetrippers
Fredericton, Canada568 contributions
No restrictions that I saw but beware lots of :obsticles" slow moving cars, fast moving cars and animals on the road. Otherwise enjoy
Travelling from Jasper to Calgary this October 3rd to 5th. Overnight in Lake Louise . Any advice on where to go along the route and especially where might be the best opportunities to see bears would be greatly appreciated . Thanks!!
Cynthia S
Ottawa, Canada56 contributions
Hi,
Just vot back from there, we saw a Grizzly Bear mama abd her cubs,along the mid point of the Bow Valley pkwy. coming from Lake Louise .Mid May is a good time as they are all coming out if hibernation and looking for food.
RedNeck308
Toronto, Canada6 contributions
Hi All,
Going to Banff after a week in the end of April. I would like to see wildlife in Bow Valley Parkway. Which time and spot will you recommend for me? I don't mind to reach there before sunrise if that's the case.
Thanks,
julieann704
Lethbridge, Canada80 contributions
There is no time, really it's just have your camera to hand, and sometimes your just in the right place at the right time, the scenery is just so beautiful to.
Johnston canyon is just fantastic to walk up and see the waterfall to x
Carolyn E
Greensboro, NC9 contributions
What time of day were you traveling this parkway? Thanks.
hasbeanshockey
Ilderton, Canada125 contributions
We started at about 9 am and returned at 3|30.
viewgirl
Arlington Heights, IL18 contributions
we want to bike part of the Bow Valley Parkway. Where can we begin? How do we find the beginning? We are staying in Canmore. Where is the best place to begin that bike ride? We will have to rent bikes somewhere. We will probably ride about 5-10 miles, then turn back around.
Vermonters210
Bennington, VT215 contributions
I'd suggest driving your car from Canmore to the Banff Train Station and Heritage Visitor Center. Staff at the visitor center are very helpful and you can pick up maps there too. The train station/visitor center is located on Mount Norquay Road just outside of downtown Banff. Park your car here and then take the 10 minute walk into town to Bear Street. There is a bike rental place on Bear Street called Snowtips/Bactrax. (There may be a second bike rental place on Bear Street). Once you pick up your bikes, head back to the train station/visitor center and head up Mt. Norquay Road. You will see Vermilion Lakes Road (or Vermilion Lakes Drive) on your left before you get to Trans-Canada One (the main "interstate" between Canmore and Banff and Lake Louise, etc.). Mt. Norquay Road and Vermilion Lakes Road are all part of the Legacy Trail. Turn left here and follow the signs for Vermilion Lakes Road/Drive which goes past both of the lakes and continues on to Bow Valley Parkway. The start of the Parkway is about 5 miles from downtown Banff so you'll have to gauge how your legs are feeling if you want to continue up the Parkway. Have fun!
LizandScott
Victoria, Canada6 contributions
Hi there where shouts did you see the Bears. We're in Banff now looking for some. Thx
Trudy W
29 contributions
No we didn't but we did in Jasper & Mt Ronson. They are there but very shy and if its really busy with tourists they will keep away. They are after salmon at the moment to get the most amount of fat build up before winter. Head to Lake Minniewanka you will see a lot more. There is a lookout with a chipmunk that comes and says hello, Coyotes and Elk.
powercat5
Overland Park, KS1 contribution
We will be in Banff in mid-October, will Bow Valley and Icefields Parkways be accessable this time of year? Any other advice for the month of October? Looking for scenic drives and non-strenuous hiking. Thanks!
ribyt
Indianapolis, IN13 contributions
Wildlife will be at the lower elevations at that time of year - so its a good choice, be prepared to stop if they wander into roads.
Top places to visit at that time of year - include Bow Valley Parkway, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake, Columbia Icefield, Maligne Canyon, Bow Lake just to name a few. You also don't want to miss the tallest waterfall in Canada in Yoho Park, and the Natural Bridge which is on way back to highway from Emerald Lake.
If you go into Jasper - you can take the cable car to the summit of the mountains for a fantastic 360 view. A similar, but not as beautiful view can be seen from Banffs sulpher mountain.
It will be cold at the glacial lakes, so dress accordingly.
Layers are highly recommended.. There are plenty of places to stop along the Ice fields Parkway - take your pick - beautiful scenery the entire time.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bow Valley Parkway
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Bow Valley Parkway:
- Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus (From C$86.95)
- Johnston Canyon Evening Icewalk (From C$100.97)
- Discover Lake Louise (Spring & Fall Sightseeing) (From C$115.66)
- eBike and Hike Banff to Johnston Canyon small group guided program (From C$182.17)
- Banff, Lake Louise & Johnston Canyon | Winter Wonderland Tour (From C$214.31)
- Hotels near Bow Valley Parkway:
- (1.71 km) Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows
- (1.24 km) Johnston Canyon Campground
- (12.52 km) Storm Mountain Lodge & Cabins
- (7.69 km) Castle Mountain Chalets
- (14.73 km) Sunshine Mountain Lodge
- Restaurants near Bow Valley Parkway:
- (12.54 km) Storm Mountain Lodge
- (15.07 km) Cliffhouse Bistro
- (11.28 km) Smitty's
- (14.31 km) First Tracks Cafe
- (15.88 km) The Lone Pine