Are you ready for a scenic journey through Banff National Park? The Bow Valley Parkway, also known as the 1A, is a top spot. It’s an alternative to the busy Trans Canada Highway. This 50 km route takes you through stunning landscapes at a slower pace.
So, what makes the Bow Valley Parkway stand out? What are the top things to do along this scenic route? Let’s explore the best spots – from beautiful viewpoints and historical sites to exciting outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters.
Key Takeaways
- The Bow Valley Parkway is a 50 km scenic route connecting Banff to Lake Louise, offering an alternative to the Trans Canada Highway
- The Parkway features numerous top stops, scenic viewpoints, historical sites, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling
- It’s one of the most scenic drives in Alberta, with the potential for wildlife sightings and breathtaking views
- The Parkway is subject to seasonal closures and restrictions to protect wildlife, so it’s important to plan your visit accordingly
- Whether you’re seeking a relaxing drive, a challenging hike, or the chance to spot iconic Canadian wildlife, the Bow Valley Parkway has something for everyone
So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Banff National Park? Let’s dive in and discover the best things to do on the Bow Valley Parkway.
Introduction to the Bow Valley Parkway
The Bow Valley Parkway, also known as the 1A, is a 48 km (30 mile) scenic route. It goes through the heart of Banff National Park, linking Banff and Lake Louise. This road was built before the Trans-Canada Highway, offering a slower, more intimate way to see the Canadian Rockies.
What is the Bow Valley Parkway?
The Bow Valley Parkway is a two-lane, paved road. It runs alongside the Trans-Canada Highway, giving travelers a scenic alternative. Built in the early 1900s, it was the main road between Banff and Lake Louise before the Trans-Canada Highway was built.
Accessing the Bow Valley Parkway
Getting to the Bow Valley Parkway is easy from Banff and Lake Louise. From Banff, take the Trans-Canada Highway, pass the Vermilion Lakes, and exit right after 6 km. From Lake Louise, go up towards the Lake Louise Ski Resort and turn right before the Skoki Lodge sign. You can also get on the Bow Valley Parkway by exiting at Castle Junction on the Trans-Canada, crossing the bridge, and heading in the right direction.
Length and Duration of the Bow Valley Parkway
The Bow Valley Parkway is 48 km (30 miles) long, one way. Drivers can make the trip in about an hour in summer without stopping. But, it may take longer in winter due to snow and ice, which can slow down driving.
You need a Parks Pass to drive on the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park. A daily pass for adults costs $10.50 CAD, and a group pass (up to 7 people) is $21 CAD. You can also buy an annual Discovery Pass for $72.25 CAD per adult or $145.25 CAD for a group.
Top Stops Along the Bow Valley Parkway
As you drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, you’ll find many must-see spots. These stops offer breathtaking views and unique experiences. From scenic overlooks to hiking trails and wildlife watching, this drive is full of hidden gems.
Backswamp
The Backswamp viewpoint gives you a wide view of Banff and the mountains. It’s a small spot along the Bow Valley Parkway where cyclists and drivers love to stop. They come to enjoy the stunning landscape.
Hillsdale Meadows
Hillsdale Meadows is a beautiful stop along the Bow Valley Parkway. It’s known for its vibrant wildflowers in summer. The meadow offers great views of Pilot Mountain. It’s a favorite for cyclists and motorists who want to stretch their legs and enjoy the scenery.
Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is a top attraction along the Bow Valley Parkway. The easy hiking trail takes you to the stunning Johnston Canyon waterfalls. These falls are a highlight of the parkway. They are impressive in winter when they freeze and in early summer when they’re full of water.
Moose Meadows
Moose Meadows is a large meadow along the Bow Valley Parkway. It’s known for wildlife viewing, especially moose. Spotting moose can be a challenge, but the meadow is beautiful year-round. It has vibrant wildflowers in summer and a snowy landscape in winter.
Rockbound Lake
Before reaching Castle Junction, you’ll find a parking area for the Rockbound Lake trailhead. This alpine lake is at the base of Castle Mountain. But getting there is a challenge – it’s an 18 km hike with over 900 meters of elevation gain.
Castle Junction
Castle Junction is halfway between Banff and Lake Louise on the Bow Valley Parkway. It connects to the Trans-Canada Highway and offers great views of Castle Mountain. There’s a small convenience store and Castle Mountain Chalets here, making it a handy stop for travelers.
Scenic Viewpoints on the Bow Valley Parkway
Driving along the Bow Valley Parkway reveals stunning viewpoints of the Canadian Rockies. You’ll see the beauty of Castle Cliffs Lookout, Storm Mountain Lookout, and Morant’s Curve.
Castle Cliffs Lookout
The Castle Cliffs Lookout is on the right after Castle Junction on the Bow Valley Parkway. It has an elevated path and panels with info. Here, you can enjoy the view of the Castle Cliffs.
Storm Mountain Lookout
Next, the Storm Mountain Lookout offers views of Storm Mountain and the Bow Valley. You might see trains on the tracks nearby. There are picnic tables for those who want to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Morant's Curve
Morant’s Curve is a famous spot on the Bow Valley Parkway. It shows the train tracks in the valley, looking beautiful with snow in winter. Waiting here might let you capture a train passing through the mountains.
“The Bow Valley Parkway is a true gem, offering a slower-paced alternative to the Trans-Canada Highway and unveiling some of the most breathtaking vistas in the Canadian Rockies.”
Historical Sites Along the Parkway
Traveling along the Bow Valley Parkway in Alberta, you’ll find a hidden gem – the Internment Camp Memorial. It honors a sad part of Canada’s history. Over 600 prisoners of war were kept at the Castle Mountain Internment Camp during World War I.
These prisoners, from Ukraine, Austria, Hungary, and Germany, faced tough conditions and mistreatment. They worked hard to build the Banff National Park we love today. The memorial reminds us of this dark time, urging us to think about our past and move forward with inclusivity and rights.
“The Internment Camp Memorial along the Bow Valley Parkway is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of remembering the mistakes of the past.”
Make sure to stop by this historical site as you travel the Bow Valley Parkway. Learning about its history deepens your appreciation for the park’s beauty and its creation. It’s a chance to connect with the past and the people who shaped this place.
Bow Valley Parkway, Alberta: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
The Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park is a scenic drive filled with activities and experiences. It’s perfect for those who love breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, or learning about the area’s history. This picturesque parkway has something for everyone.
Explore Scenic Viewpoints
Stopping at the scenic lookouts along the Bow Valley Parkway is a must. The Castle Cliffs Lookout and Storm Mountain Lookout show off the Canadian Rockies. Morant’s Curve is great for photos of the Bow River flowing through the valley.
Discover Historical Sites
The parkway also has historical sites that tell the story of the past. The Internment Camp Memorial remembers the Japanese-Canadian internment during World War II. It’s a moving and educational stop for visitors.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities
For adventure lovers, the Bow Valley Parkway has a lot to offer. Hiking trails like the Healy Pass hike give you stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Cycling is another great way to see the parkway, offering a scenic ride without cars.
Spot Wildlife
The parkway is known for its wildlife, making it a top spot for nature lovers. Look out for elk, bighorn sheep, bears, and many bird species as you drive or hike.
The Bow Valley Parkway has adventure, history, and peaceful spots for everyone in Banff National Park.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Driving along the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park lets you see amazing Canadian wildlife. This beautiful road is almost 30 miles long. It’s perfect for watching the animals that live in the Rockies.
You might see bighorn sheep, deer, and elk in the summer. Moose Meadows is a great spot to look for moose, even though they’re hard to find. The parkway’s beautiful nature makes it great for watching wildlife.
Every year, over three million people visit Banff National Park to see its wildlife. The Bow Valley Parkway is a top spot for this. It lets you see the area’s beauty and maybe even some animals up close.
Always keep a safe distance from the animals and follow Parks Canada’s rules. This way, you can enjoy watching wildlife without harming them. With patience and a good eye, you’ll see amazing things on your trip.
“Banff National Park is a true wildlife haven, and the Bow Valley Parkway offers unparalleled opportunities to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitats.”
So, bring your camera and be ready to see incredible animals in the Canadian Rockies. It’s an experience you won’t forget.
Outdoor Activities on the Parkway
The Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park is a paradise for outdoor lovers. It offers hiking through stunning alpine landscapes and cycling on a scenic path. This makes it perfect for adventure and discovery.
Hiking Trails
Banff National Park has over 1,600 kilometers of hiking trails. The Bow Valley Parkway gives you access to some of the most beautiful ones. You can hike to Johnston Canyon, see the turquoise waters of Rockbound Lake, or walk along Moraine Lake’s shore.
This lets you enjoy the breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies.
- Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail: A 2.8-mile out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of 121 feet, taking approximately 1 hour.
- Lake Agnes Trail: A 4.6-mile out-and-back moderate hike with an elevation gain of 1,427 feet, taking around 3 hours.
- Beehive Circuit: A challenging 7.3-mile loop hike with an elevation gain of 2,486 feet, taking about 5 hours.
- Plain of Six Glaciers Trail: A moderate 9.1-mile out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of 1,929 feet, taking around 5 hours.
Cycling on the Parkway
The Bow Valley Parkway is a favorite spot for cyclists. It offers a scenic ride without cars. Parks Canada has set aside a section for cyclists, making it perfect for biking.
You can bring your bike or rent one locally. This makes the parkway an ideal place for cycling.
The Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park is a haven for outdoor lovers. It has stunning mountain views and well-kept trails. It’s a great place to explore and enjoy the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation within Banff National Park can be hard to find and expensive, especially in peak season. But, the Bow Valley Parkway offers alternatives. Canmore, a nearby town, has more affordable places to stay, like hotels, motels, vacation rentals, and campsites. For a unique stay, consider the Castle Mountain Chalets and Johnston Canyon Bungalows right on the Bow Valley Parkway.
The Baker Creek Mountain Resort is a top choice. It has different rooms for various visitors. You can pick from lodge suites or private cabins for romantic trips, family holidays, or group retreats. Each lodge suite type – One Bedroom Suite, Jacuzzi Suite, and Deluxe Loft Suite – has special features.
Private cabins at the resort vary, including Loft Cabin (Ladder), Loft Cabin (Stairs), 2 Bedroom, and Heritage Trapper’s. These options are great for families, big groups, or couples wanting a romantic escape. The resort is in a quiet area off the Bow Valley Parkway, away from traffic noise.
Guests at Baker Creek Mountain Resort can enjoy skating, bonfires, and cross-country skiing. They have fire pits, skating rinks, and ski trails for fun during their stay.
| Accommodation Type | Amenities | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Lodge Suites | One Bedroom Suite, Jacuzzi Suite, Deluxe Loft Suite | Couples, Small Families |
| Private Cabins | Loft Cabin (Ladder), Loft Cabin (Stairs), 2 Bedroom, Heritage Trapper’s | Families, Larger Groups, Couples |
| Activities | Skating, Bonfires, Cross-country Skiing | All Visitors |
Looking for a cozy cabin, a luxurious suite, or outdoor fun? The Bow Valley Parkway has the perfect spot for exploring Banff National Park’s beauty.
Seasonal Highlights and Closures
The Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park is a hit in the summer. People love the green landscapes, wildflowers, and chances to hike and see wildlife. The weather is warm, making it perfect for enjoying the parkway’s beauty.
In the winter, the parkway takes on a magical look with snow and frozen waterfalls. Activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular. But, be ready for slower drives due to snow and ice.
Parkway Closures and Restrictions
It’s key to know about parkway closures and rules. From March 1 to June 25, the eastern 17-kilometer section closes at night (8 pm to 8 am) to protect wildlife. Also, a bike-only trial runs from May 1 to June 25 and August 30 to September 30. This means no cars during the day in that area. Plan your visit and be ready for any changes.
The Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park offers a unique and scenic driving experience, with the potential for stunning views and wildlife encounters throughout the year. However, it’s essential for visitors to be aware of the seasonal highlights, closures, and restrictions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Conclusion
Exploring the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park is a highlight of any trip. It lets you dive into the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. You’ll find breathtaking views, historic sites, and many outdoor activities.
This parkway is perfect for a relaxing drive, spotting wildlife, or going on an adventure hike. Its stunning landscapes, rich history, and many activities make it a gem. Don’t miss it when you visit Banff National Park.
When planning your trip, make sure to enjoy the amazing views and see the local wildlife. The Bow Valley Parkway is a must-see spot. It will leave you amazed by the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.