Bow Lake
A breathtaking glacial lake in Banff National Park, famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and stunning mountain reflections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, vibrant colors
Bow Lake
Best Time
Calm waters, vibrant colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking glacial lake in Banff National Park, famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and stunning mountain reflections.
"Bow Lake is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Banff National Park. Its stunning beauty, rich history, and outdoor activities make it a popular spot."
Mirror Lake Reflections
Visit on a calm, windless day for incredible mirror-like reflections of the mountains. :camerawithflash:
Bundle Up!
Even in summer, mountain weather changes fast. Pack layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Waters
Bow Lake shore
Witness the breathtaking, vibrant turquoise hue of the lake, especially on a clear, windless day.
Historic Lodge Views
The Lodge at Bow Lake
Admire the stunning mountain reflections mirrored on the lake's surface from the lodge's vantage point.
Bow Glacier Hike
Trailhead near the lodge
Embark on a short hike to get closer to the majestic Bow Glacier and enjoy panoramic lake views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Bow Lake
Navigating the Icefields Parkway
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Mirror Lake Reflections
Visit on a calm, windless day for incredible mirror-like reflections of the mountains. :camerawithflash:
Bundle Up!
Even in summer, mountain weather changes fast. Pack layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures. :cloud:
Parking Challenges
Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :car:
Coffee & Souvenirs
Grab a warm drink and a Kanelbullar at Provision Co. for a cozy start to your exploration. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Mirror Lake Reflections
Visit on a calm, windless day for incredible mirror-like reflections of the mountains. :camerawithflash:
Bundle Up!
Even in summer, mountain weather changes fast. Pack layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures. :cloud:
Parking Challenges
Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :car:
Coffee & Souvenirs
Grab a warm drink and a Kanelbullar at Provision Co. for a cozy start to your exploration. :coffee:
Scenic Drive Essential
Bow Lake is a must-stop on the Icefields Parkway. Don't rush this iconic drive! :road:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bow Lake is praised for its stunning, vibrant turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain reflections, offering a serene and magical experience. Visitors appreciate its beauty year-round and the peaceful atmosphere, though some note that parking and facilities could be improved.
"It's a really nice lake, even if it's not as well-known as Louise or Moraine. Definitely worth checking out, but the parking and facilities weren't great."
SaBa Abd
"Bow lake gets its water from Crowfoot glacier and the water will stream down to bow river and go all the way to Calgary.
and when there is no wind, there are no ripple on the lake, then the lake will looks like a mirror and reflect the mountain and the sky onto the surface of the lake."
Gordon Wong
"Alberta has many big and beautiful lakes.
Lake Bow is also a great lake! It gives me relaxation and comfort. I recommend you to go if you have a chance."
A.P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bow Lake is located on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) in Banff National Park. It's approximately 30 minutes north of Lake Louise and about 2 hours south of Jasper. You can drive your own vehicle or take a guided tour. Download offline maps as cell service is spotty.
While there isn't direct public transit to Bow Lake, several tour operators offer bus services along the Icefields Parkway that include stops at major attractions like Bow Lake.
The Icefields Parkway is a destination in itself! Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to stop at viewpoints like Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield. Allow a full day for the drive.
Bow Lake is within Banff National Park, so a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry. You can purchase passes online or at park gates.
Conditions on the Icefields Parkway can vary greatly by season. Summer offers the best conditions, but always check the Parks Canada website for current road closures, advisories, and weather forecasts before you go.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no specific tickets required for Bow Lake itself. However, you will need a valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass to enter Banff National Park.
Bow Lake is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, facilities like the lodge and coffee shop have specific operating hours.
The Icefields Parkway is part of Banff National Park, so the Parks Canada Discovery Pass covers entry. There isn't a separate toll for the parkway itself.
Yes, The Lodge at Bow Lake offers accommodation right on the lake. It's recommended to book well in advance, especially for summer.
As a protected area within a national park, visitors are expected to stay on marked trails, not feed wildlife, and pack out all trash. Check Parks Canada for any seasonal closures or advisories.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late evening often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and potentially stunning sunrise or sunset colors. A windless day is ideal for capturing perfect reflections.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lake. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and long exposures.
The area around The Lodge at Bow Lake offers fantastic viewpoints for reflections. The short hike towards Bow Glacier also provides elevated perspectives of the lake and surrounding peaks.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest Parks Canada regulations regarding drones before flying.
The iconic reflection of the Crowfoot Glacier and surrounding mountains on the lake's surface is a must-capture. The historic Lodge at Bow Lake also adds a charming element to photos.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic walks along the lake shore, hike towards Bow Glacier, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the stunning views. In winter, it's a popular spot for snowshoeing and ice exploration.
Yes, there's a relatively easy trail that leads towards the Bow Glacier and offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding peaks. It's a great option for a short hike.
Facilities include parking, restrooms, The Lodge at Bow Lake, and a coffee shop (Provision Co.). Services are limited, so come prepared.
Yes, Bow Lake is family-friendly. The short walk to Bow Glacier is manageable for most ages, and the stunning scenery is captivating for children. Pack snacks and drinks.
Dress in layers! Mountain weather can change rapidly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and waterproof outer layers are recommended, especially outside of peak summer.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and layers of clothing, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Restrooms are available, but other amenities are limited, so be prepared. The lodge and coffee shop offer a chance for a warm-up or a treat.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Key advice: Arrive early to secure a good spot and catch the best light. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the grand scale of the landscape, and a tripod will be invaluable for low-light conditions and sharp reflection shots. Be patient; the perfect reflection conditions are worth waiting for.
🚗 Road Trippers on the Icefields Parkway
Don't miss: Taking a moment to appreciate the reflections from the shore near The Lodge at Bow Lake. Even a short stop here can significantly enhance your Icefields Parkway experience. Remember to check road conditions and download offline maps before you start your journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Bow Lake's Turquoise Waters
When the conditions are just right, with no wind to disturb the surface, Bow Lake transforms into a perfect mirror. This phenomenon allows for breathtaking reflections of the surrounding Crowfoot Glacier, Mount Thompson, and the vast Canadian Rockies sky. Photographers and visitors alike flock to witness this surreal spectacle, where the line between reality and reflection blurs into a single, awe-inspiring panorama.
While the turquoise color is most vibrant in the summer months when glacial melt is at its peak, Bow Lake offers a different kind of beauty in other seasons. In autumn, the surrounding larch trees turn golden, creating a warm contrast with the cool blue water. Winter transforms the lake into a serene, snow-covered expanse, offering a peaceful, almost ethereal experience.
Exploring the Icefields Parkway: A Scenic Journey
Driving the Icefields Parkway is an experience in itself. It's crucial to plan your journey, as services are sparse. Key attractions include Peyto Lake viewpoint, the Columbia Icefield (home to the Athabasca Glacier), and numerous pull-offs for breathtaking vistas. Bow Lake, with its historic lodge and stunning reflections, is one of the first major lakes encountered when driving south from Jasper, making it an easily accessible and unforgettable stop.
Visitors often recommend dedicating a full day to the Icefields Parkway to truly appreciate its grandeur. Be sure to check road conditions and weather forecasts before you depart, as winter can bring snow and ice, potentially leading to closures. Downloading offline maps is also a wise precaution due to limited cell service along much of the route.
The Lodge at Bow Lake: History and Charm
The lodge provides a cozy retreat with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It's an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of Bow Lake and the wider Icefields Parkway. While it offers a sense of tranquility, it's also a popular spot, and booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season.
Adjacent to the lodge, Provision Co. offers a convenient spot for visitors to grab a coffee, a snack, or a souvenir. This makes the area around the lodge a central hub for visitors, combining accommodation, dining, and access to the lake's natural wonders.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit