Bow Falls Viewpoint image

Bow Falls Viewpoint

Tourist attraction โ€ข Hiking area โ€ข Scenic spot

One of the Most Revieweds in Division No. 15


Address

Bow Falls Ave, Banff, AB T0L 0C0, Canada

Website

pc.gc.ca

Contact

+1 403-762-1550

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (4.8K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: (Christmas Eve), Open 24 hours, Hours might differ
  • Monday: (Christmas Day), Open 24 hours, Hours might differ
  • Tuesday: (Boxing Day), Open 24 hours, Hours might differ
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Banff (11) walk (11) river (9) great (8) beautiful (8) falls (7) view (7) waterfall (6) nice (6) area (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 John H. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a quick visit, roadside waterfall. It is impressive in the sense that it has such amazing scenery with the parking lot right there. You can definitely hike along the river and up to the main Lodge for even more scenery. But if you are short on time or have mobility issues, this is a great option for some wonderful pictures.
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 L. S. 1 year ago on Google
    Just a couple minutes drive south of Banff..! This hidden gem is wonderful place to get away from city life and stretch your legs. A long walking path goes up and along the river, offering great views above the falls and beyond. Fairly large parking lot, clean and just the sounds of the falls to take in, surrounded by nature. A great experience for the entire family.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Reflection of M. 10 months ago on Google
    Very nice place without any walk if you choose to park just in front of the falls. We saw rain bow, it was one the experiences, amazing. And if you choose to walk from up the hill its worth the trip with beautiful scenic spot right besides the river.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Mike D. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolute must see. There are many things to see and do in this area but this one is right off the road and offers incredible photo ops or a nice little hike. This area is stunning. One of my favorite places in one of the most beautiful parks on Earth.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Christine W. 10 months ago on Google
    A quick walk with a lovely pay off. There are a few steeper inclines and some sections with steps, but you can get some great views without going all the way to the end. If you do go to the end, you've got some nice shade and rocks to sit on to view the falls and river beyond.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Vids T. 8 months ago on Google
    Easy to find incredible view of Bow fall this is a must see spot in Banff. Ample parking but can get super busy on a bright sunny weekend. There was no washroom though. There is river rafting service as shown in images unsure of price and operation hours. There were no Picnic benches either; but lots of sitting bench. There are few trails from this view point. Over all highly recommemded. Check out videos and images & Follow for more.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Dhrumil P. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely natural waterfall in the heart of the Banff town center. We came during a heat wave and standing at the base of the waterfall felt so refreshing and cooling. Thereโ€™s plenty of parking and plenty of areas to sit, relax, and take photos. Try to come during sunset time for beautiful golden hour photos.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Robynn L. 9 months ago on Google
    Such a beautiful experience! What a clever idea, adding art along the trail! Respectable distance, beautiful for pictures and the sound of waterfall, what a blessing! If you're in Banff, I highly recommend this natural beauty! Stay hydrated and take a drink along ๐Ÿ™‚
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Jamie H. 1 year ago on Google
    The Bow River and Bow Falls are just stunning, walking along viewing them is great but when you get to this Viewpoint itโ€™s absolutely spectacular, the way the viewpoint perfectly encapsulates the Falls, River, Mountains and wider scenery is breathtaking! We even ended up having our wedding here, on the frozen river. The additional information boards provided with facts about the river and the local wildlife are also very interesting.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Laurie L. 8 months ago on Google
    Nice walk and pretty area that the falls are at. Gets a bit crowded in the โ€œphotoโ€ area when the buses come in so wasnโ€™t able to sit and have a few minutes to just appreciate the nature, but it was nice. The art trail that is along the way has some beautiful touches!
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Destination Diaries with M. 8 months ago on Google
    Falls are impressive, providing a captivating sight. The surrounding area offers a great space to unwind and relax. Additionally, there's a dedicated play area for kids, making it an ideal destination for families to enjoy a fun and refreshing day out.

  • 5/5 Jodi T. 5 months ago on Google
    This was so pretty! With the newly fallen snow, it was very picturesque. If you're in Banff, it's worth the detour. Great picture opportunities.

  • 5/5 Bill W. 6 months ago on Google
    We never get tired of waterfalls. Another beautiful example! This water is zero degrees except in summer when it gets to 10 degrees! So lovely and easy to get to, amust see in Banff.

  • 5/5 Andy F. 6 months ago on Google
    This is one of the prettiest places I have seen. Definitely a must see. We went on a long weekend. It was a little too busy. If you have a nice warm day go for a dip.

  • 5/5 Kenny B. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful place for a some breath taking pictures. We went in the winter and the lower walk way was maintained, but the stairs and upper viewing areas are not maintained and were far too icy and dangerous to attempt climbing. Some gorgeous views none the less.

  • 5/5 Bon C. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful lookout a short 20/25 min walk from Banff centre, walk along the river path and feel like youโ€™re in a fairytale walking through the forest. Loads of art to admire along the way. Great view of the waterfall, mountains and turquoise river. Bring bug spray and sunscreen.

  • 4/5 Simon (. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing place for hiking, relaxation, family time, outdoor gathering, and a cool and calm environment to refresh and recharge. This is nature at one of its best forms in Alberta, Canada. You will definitely love this place and will want to come again and again.

  • 5/5 Jessica D. 2 years ago on Google
    Love visiting the Bow Falls when Iโ€™m in Banff. Itโ€™s a small waterfall, but it has lots of character. It is also one of the more accessible natural attractions in Banff center. Definitely appreciated an easy walk at nearly 8 months pregnant today!

  • 5/5 Harry Z. 1 year ago on Google
    Very nice short walk from downtown Banff. Easy hike for most part. Very beautiful view at the end of the hike. Make sure to pass the Bow Falls and you will reach the the viewpoint. You can also drive there as well.

  • 5/5 Steve K. 1 year ago on Google
    Nature in all her glory. Gorgeous falls. Parking was easy and a very short walk from the water. If you're able do walk the steps to the top. A must see while in Banff.

  • 5/5 Sandra K. 1 year ago on Google
    The day we visited was quite overcast and the water wasnโ€™t that pretty blue Iโ€™ve seen on photos. Still, the fall itself was awesome to see. Take the stairs up for a nicer view. Thereโ€™s plenty of parking next to the falls.

  • 5/5 Lolvee 1 year ago on Google
    Great great great little path to this wonderful and breathtaking view point. Family friendly. Art work on the hike was next level unique. Lots of little rest stops which was awesome. Will return one day!


Call +1 403-762-1550 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • โœ“๏ธ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • โœ“๏ธ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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