Morant's Curve
Iconic viewpoint where railway tracks curve gracefully alongside the Bow River, framed by majestic Canadian Rockies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Morant's Curve
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic viewpoint where railway tracks curve gracefully alongside the Bow River, framed by majestic Canadian Rockies.
"The most iconic and picturesque locations in the Canadian Rockies—a vantage point where the tracks snake gracefully."
Be Patient for the Train
Train schedules aren't posted; waits can be 10 mins to 2+ hours. Enjoy the scenery!
Check Rocky Mountaineer Schedule
This might give clues to train times passing through Banff.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Curve
Bow River Valley
Witness the legendary railway track curve gracefully alongside the Bow River, framed by towering peaks.
Golden Hour Light
Overlooking the curve
Experience the magical glow of the setting sun illuminating the mountains and river.
Train Spotting
Along the tracks
The thrill of seeing a train pass through this picturesque landscape, a true highlight for many.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Train Timing is Everything
Photography Hotspot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Be Patient for the Train
Train schedules aren't posted; waits can be 10 mins to 2+ hours. Enjoy the scenery! +1
Check Rocky Mountaineer Schedule
This might give clues to train times passing through Banff.
Golden Hour Magic
The light is stunning in the late afternoon for photographers.
Small Parking Area
Limited spots available, arrive early if possible. :car:
Morants Curve
Tips
from all over the internet
Be Patient for the Train
Train schedules aren't posted; waits can be 10 mins to 2+ hours. Enjoy the scenery! +1
Check Rocky Mountaineer Schedule
This might give clues to train times passing through Banff.
Golden Hour Magic
The light is stunning in the late afternoon for photographers.
Small Parking Area
Limited spots available, arrive early if possible. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery at Morant's Curve, calling it an iconic and picturesque location in the Canadian Rockies. The harmonious blend of the railway, Bow River, and towering mountains creates a truly magical atmosphere, especially during golden hour. While the unpredictable train schedule can lead to long waits, many find the wait worthwhile for that perfect shot, and the natural beauty alone makes it a highly recommended stop.
"Morant’s Curve is one of the most iconic and picturesque locations in the Canadian Rockies—a vantage point where the tracks snake gracefully alongside the Bow River, surrounded by dense pine forests and towering peaks. On this particular evening, the anticipation was palpable, waiting over an hour in the hopes of capturing that classic scene. With the sun dipping lower and golden light filtering above the mountains, the atmosphere felt nothing short of magical.Just as the thought of leaving crept in, the distant echo of a train whistle signaled a perfect alignment of timing and nature. The sunlight was absolutely majestic, the last rays glittering on the water and filtering through the valleys in stunning shafts. When the train finally emerged around the bend, it brought the landscape to life—combining motion, light, and the timeless beauty of the Rockies into a single, unforgettable moment."
Ashwani singh
"Visiting Morant’s Curve was such an amazing experience! The views are absolutely breathtaking, with stunning mountain backdrops and the railway curving perfectly through nature. Truly one of the most wonderful scenic spots to witness and capture unforgettable moments. 🌲🚂✨"
Mona Pourghanad
"It's a tranquil place to escape the chaos of daily life. A highly recommended destination for photographers, especially those who appreciate nature photography. The mountains, rivers, and railway tracks showcase a beautiful harmony between human development and the natural world over time. I had the pleasure of watching a train pass by. Videos from my visit can be found on my Instagram accounts, @priyesh1081 and @enchanted_archivist."
PRIYESH PRAJAPATI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Morant's Curve is located along the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) between Lake Louise and Banff. It's easily accessible by car. There's a small parking area just off the road.
Public transport options directly to Morant's Curve are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. Consider a guided tour if you don't have a car. :bus:
Search for 'Morant's Curve' on Google Maps or your preferred navigation app. It's a well-known viewpoint along the Bow Valley Parkway. :world_map:
Yes, cycling along the Bow Valley Parkway is a popular option for visitors who enjoy scenic rides. Be aware of wildlife and road conditions. :bike:
Morant's Curve is about a 30-40 minute drive west of Banff townsite, making it a convenient stop on the Bow Valley Parkway. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Morant's Curve is a natural viewpoint and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. However, you will need a Parks Canada Discovery Pass to enter Banff National Park. :ticket:
Morant's Curve is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. The best time to visit for photography is during daylight hours, especially golden hour. :clock:
There is no direct admission fee for Morant's Curve itself. However, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Banff National Park. :moneywithwings:
Many tours operating in Banff National Park include stops at Morant's Curve. This can be a good option if you prefer not to drive yourself. :tour_bus:
Yes, Morant's Curve is open year-round, including winter. The snowy landscapes can offer a different, beautiful perspective. :snowflake:
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most magical light, illuminating the mountains and river. Early morning can also be beautiful.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful if you want to zoom in on the train when it appears. :camerawithflash:
Be patient for the train! Also, experiment with different angles to capture the curve of the tracks and the river. Consider the weather for dramatic skies.
Drone usage is regulated in national parks. Always check Parks Canada's latest drone regulations before flying. :drone:
The classic viewpoint is from the pull-off area across from the tracks, offering a clear view of the curve and the Bow River.
🎫 🚂 Trains
You'll most commonly see freight trains operated by Canadian Pacific (CP Rail) and sometimes the Rocky Mountaineer tourist train.
No, there are no posted schedules for freight trains. The Rocky Mountaineer has a schedule, but its exact timing at Morant's Curve can vary. +1
Wait times are unpredictable. Some visitors see a train within minutes, while others wait for 1-2 hours or even miss it entirely. 
Patience is key. Some suggest checking the Rocky Mountaineer's schedule for Banff and estimating its arrival time at Morant's Curve.
Yes, you can often hear the train whistle and the rumble of the tracks from a distance, giving you a heads-up. :bell:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Turn the train spotting into a game! See who can spot the train first or count the train cars. Even if you don't see a train, the stunning scenery and the chance to see wildlife like elk or deer can make for a memorable family outing.
📸 Photographers
Key Advice: Be patient for the train – it's the ultimate prize for many photographers. Consider bringing a variety of lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, to capture both the expansive landscape and the details of the train. Check weather forecasts for dramatic skies.
+1🚗 Road Trippers
Recommendation: Combine a visit to Morant's Curve with other nearby attractions like Johnston Canyon or Lake Louise for a full day of exploration along this stunning route.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Train Spotting at Morant's Curve
While freight trains are frequent, their timings are not publicized. The Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury tourist train, offers a more predictable, albeit still variable, schedule. Some travelers have found success by cross-referencing the Rocky Mountaineer's Banff arrival/departure times with the known route to estimate when it might pass Morant's Curve. However, even with this information, patience is paramount, as delays or early arrivals can occur.
Despite the waiting game, the anticipation itself is part of the charm. The stunning natural beauty of the surrounding Rockies, the serene Bow River, and the dense pine forests provide a captivating backdrop. Many visitors find that even without a train, the location offers a tranquil escape and incredible photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Photography Tips for Capturing Morant's Curve
When composing your shot, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the entire scene. The curve of the tracks naturally leads the viewer's eye into the frame. If you're hoping to capture a train, a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating the locomotive as it rounds the bend. Remember that the train is an industrial or tourist service, not a scheduled passenger train, so its appearance is a bonus rather than a guarantee.
Many photographers find the pull-off area across the road to be the prime vantage point. From here, you get a clear view of the iconic curve. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Bringing a tripod can help with low-light conditions and ensure sharper images, especially if you're waiting for that perfect train moment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit