Bow Falls
About
Bow Falls is a thundering, low, and wide waterfall located on the Bow River, situated right behind the iconic, castle-like Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Created where the river cuts through a barrier of hard sandstone, the falls tumble dramatically over a rocky shelf, creating a roaring cascade of glacial-blue water. It is one of Banff’s most accessible natural attractions, connected directly to the downtown core via a series of flat, scenic riverside walking trails.
Highlights
What makes this place special
The Bow Falls Viewpoint
A paved, wheelchair-accessible platform located directly next to the thundering base of the falls.
Bow River Trail
A beautiful, flat pedestrian path lined with wooden stairs and benches that connects the waterfall directly to the town center.
Fairmont Banff Springs backdrop
Capture spectacular photographs of the falls with the towering, historic "Castle in the Rockies" rising from the forest above.
Things to Know
- •The falls are exceptionally easy to reach on foot from downtown Banff by walking across the pedestrian bridge and following the river trail.
- •The site features a large, free parking lot, but it fills to capacity quickly during peak summer days.
- •Visit in the early morning to enjoy the softest sunlight for photography and to avoid the large midday tour buses.
