Bow Falls Trail — Attraction in Banff

I recently did the Bow Falls Trail in Banff, and it was such a refreshing and scenic experience—perfect for anyone looking for a short, easy walk with rewarding views.

The trail is very accessible, starting right near downtown Banff, close to the Banff Springs Hotel, so it’s easy to fit into your day even if you’re short on time. It’s mostly flat and well-maintained, making it great for families, casual hikers, or anyone who wants a gentle nature break without a strenuous climb.

The highlight, of course, is Bow Falls itself—a powerful, wide waterfall on the Bow River that’s beautiful to see up close. There are several viewpoints along the trail where you can watch the water rushing over the rocks and feel the mist on your face. The sound of the falls is really soothing and adds to the whole nature vibe.

Along the way, you’ll pass through some lovely forested areas with plenty of shade, and if you’re lucky, you might spot local wildlife like birds or squirrels. There are also benches and picnic spots if you want to take a break and enjoy the surroundings.

A few tips from my visit: • The trail is fairly short (about 1.5 to 2 km round trip), so it’s doable even if you only have an hour or two. • Wear comfortable walking shoes — the path is mostly dirt and gravel but well-maintained. • Bring a camera or phone for photos; the falls and river views are fantastic, especially on sunny days when the water sparkles. • If you want to extend your walk, you can connect to other nearby trails like the Bow River Trail or stroll over to the Banff Springs Hotel for some history and maybe a coffee. • Early morning or late afternoon are great times to avoid crowds and enjoy softer light for pictures.

Overall, Bow Falls Trail is a beautiful, easy escape right in Banff that lets you enjoy nature’s power without much effort. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, it’s a peaceful spot that I’d recommend adding to your...

This is one of the best hikes within the city of Banff. It's an easy and pleasant trail with plenty of artwork along the way and numerous opportunities to spot birds and wildlife.

As you walk by the river, you'll also get to see the beautiful falls. The trail itself isn’t overly crowded—just right, I’d say—but expect more people near the falls and...

On a sunny afternoon, our family visited downtown Banff looking for activities. The visitor center suggested a short, easy walk along the Bow River Trail. The shaded path crosses the river a few times, offering views of the falls. A few steps near the end lead to the majestic Bow Falls. This walk is perfect for a quick...