Bow Valley Parkway
Bow Valley Parkway
4.5
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,411 reviews
Excellent
1,544
Very good
659
Average
168
Poor
28
Terrible
12
david n
Manchester, UK4,226 contributions
Jan. 2023
A quieter way to drive through this beautiful area. So, its winter and very few animas but the scenery is itself awesome.
Written January 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
2TravelersMn
Stillwater, MN545 contributions
Jul. 2022
The Bow Valley Parkway is a 30-mile scenic road between Banff and Lake Louise. Castle Mountain Lookout and Storm Mountain Viewpoint are two of the great stops.
Written January 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Tarrans
Great Yarmouth, UK38 contributions
Sep. 2022
Such an amazing drive, beautiful scenery! Entire 3 weeks never saw a bear though so gutted ha ha . Roads and pull over view points are all fantastic
Written October 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
AK8397
Ontario, Canada817 contributions
Oct. 2022
This parkway offers you the opportunity to get off the 4-lane highway and take a quieter, slower trip through the countryside. Lots of scenery to admire, with a few look-offs to stop at. Some hikes too, such as the Johnson Canyon trail which is highly recommended. We went in October, so there wasn't much traffic and there were few tourists. Hoped to see wildlife, but we were traveling in mid-day, when the sightings are less likely. It's a good alternative route, if you have the extra time.
Written October 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Geraldine M
Woking, UK5 contributions
Sep. 2022
We drove and cycled up the Bow Valley Parkway at least 4 times in each direction, and saw a solitary deer (twice). The scenery is beautiful but unless you visit earlier in the season wildlife may well be few and far between!
Written October 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Catherine W
Chippenham, UK251 contributions
Sep. 2022 • Couples
We drove this route from lake Louise to Banff.it follows the river and has beautiful views all the way. We managed to photograph a train at Morants curve and stopped at other viewpoints though we failed to see any wildlife. We drove on to where the road is blocked at Johnston canyon. Walked here but were disappointed to find the upper falls trail was closed for maintenance. It is good that the road is closed at times which must help the wildlife and be wonderful for cyclists. It is a much quieter more pleasant drive than the trans Canada highway.
Written October 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jim B
Grapeview, WA1,272 contributions
Sep. 2022 • Couples
We rode our bikes from Banff to Johnston Canyon on the closed section. While I can sympathize with those who are upset that it is closed all month, as a cyclist, I can say there is nothing better than being able to ride through such a beautiful area without having to constantly watch for traffic.
As we rode, there were amazing views of different mountains around every corner. Also enjoyed the many pull offs with signs discussing different animals, rivers, history, and wild fires.
At Johnston Canyon you can ride into the closed campground for a quiet picnic stop.
As we rode, there were amazing views of different mountains around every corner. Also enjoyed the many pull offs with signs discussing different animals, rivers, history, and wild fires.
At Johnston Canyon you can ride into the closed campground for a quiet picnic stop.
Written September 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dia Lau
Mirabel, Canada3 contributions
Sep. 2022 • Couples
Closed in September (except for biking). Very unfortunate and discriminating for mobility reduced people. We went from Ontario and couldn't access it. The person at Park Canada who decided this is really dumb! Could have been closed one day a week, instead of the whole month. A good exemple of "WOKE" from the federal government. 👎🤡
Written September 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
premierman
County Tipperary, Ireland567 contributions
Sep. 2022
Southern part of the parkway is closed to motorised traffic until the end of September. Drove the part that is open 3 times, early morning and evening but saw no wildlife on any visit, don't think it is worth it until next month as there are more scenic drives in Banff NP.
Written September 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Lori V
Barrie, Canada2 contributions
Sep. 2022 • Family
Very sad the Bow River Parkway is closed to vehicles. When had planned to take it for our last day of vacation on our way to Calgary.
“The section of the Bow Valley Parkway east of Johnston Canyon to Banff will remain open to public vehicles EXCEPT from May 1 to June 25 and from September 1 to 30 in 2022, 2023 and 2024 where public vehicles will not be allowed (as part of the 3 year cycling pilot on the Highway 1A).”
“The section of the Bow Valley Parkway east of Johnston Canyon to Banff will remain open to public vehicles EXCEPT from May 1 to June 25 and from September 1 to 30 in 2022, 2023 and 2024 where public vehicles will not be allowed (as part of the 3 year cycling pilot on the Highway 1A).”
Written September 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
JBRetired
Apple Valley, CA442 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 Hampshire59 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, Canada519 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, Canada124 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.
BOW VALLEY PARKWAY (Banff) - 2023 What to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Bow Valley Parkway
- We recommend booking Bow Valley Parkway tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 9 Bow Valley Parkway tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Bow Valley Parkway:
- Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus (From C$81.99)
- Johnston Canyon Evening Icewalk (From C$98.24)
- Discover Lake Louise (Spring & Fall Sightseeing) (From C$107.07)
- Banff, Lake Louise & Johnston Canyon | Small Group Active Full Day Adventure! (From C$236.75)
- eBike and Hike Banff to Johnston Canyon small group guided program (From C$171.15)
- Hotels near Bow Valley Parkway:
- (1.72 km) Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows
- (1.24 km) Johnston Canyon Campground
- (12.52 km) Storm Mountain Lodge & Cabins
- (7.69 km) Castle Mountain Chalets
- (11.96 km) Shadow Lake 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