Bow Falls

Bow Falls is a wide, powerful waterfall located just below the Banff Springs Hotel on the Bow River in the town of Banff. Unlike the towering vertical drops found in many other waterfalls in the Rockies, Bow Falls is characterized by its broad, fan-like cascade that spreads across a rocky riverbed, creating a roaring wall of white water as it drops approximately 9 meters (30 feet) in height and spans nearly 30 meters (100 feet) in width. The falls are particularly impressive in late spring and early summer when snowmelt increases the volume of water surging over the rocks. Surrounded by pine forests and rugged hillsides, the falls offer a dramatic contrast to the calm stretches of the Bow River upstream. A scenic walkway runs alongside the river, providing visitors with several viewpoints close to the churning waters, along with interpretive signs that describe the natural and cultural history of the area. Bow Falls is easily accessible by foot, bike, or vehicle, and its proximity to downtown Banff makes it a popular year-round destination for both quick visits and leisurely riverside strolls. The sound of rushing water, the misty spray, and the iconic backdrop of Mount Rundle make Bow Falls a captivating stop for those exploring the Banff townsite.

Bow Falls is one of Banff’s most accessible and iconic natural features, located just a short distance from the heart of town and adjacent to the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Although not especially tall-dropping roughly 9 meters (30 feet)-the waterfall makes up for its modest height with its incredible width and sheer volume. During peak melt in late spring and early summer, the falls swell with glacial runoff from the Bow River, creating a thunderous roar and powerful spray that can be felt from the nearby pathways. The water tumbles over a rocky escarpment and rushes into a swirling channel below, framed by forested slopes and dramatic rocky outcrops.

Bow Falls

The Bow River, which begins at Bow Lake high in the mountains near the Icefields Parkway, flows through several glacial lakes before reaching the town of Banff, and Bow Falls marks one of its most dramatic changes in elevation. The geology around the falls reveals layers of sedimentary rock that have been shaped over millennia by flowing water, offering insight into the region’s ancient past.

Visitors can reach the falls from multiple directions. A paved riverside trail runs from Central Park and the pedestrian bridge in Banff, offering a scenic walk or bike ride along the riverbanks. Another short trail leads directly from the Banff Springs Hotel down to the falls, descending through the woods to reach the main viewing area. The lookout features railings and wide platforms where visitors can safely admire the rushing waters and capture photos of the falls with the Bow River valley and Mount Rundle in the background.

Bow Falls also holds cultural significance. It was featured in the 1953 Marilyn Monroe film River of No Return, highlighting its cinematic appeal. Interpretive signage along the pathway explains the area's history, including its role in early tourism, Indigenous travel routes, and the geological forces that shaped the landscape.

In winter, Bow Falls takes on a quieter, frozen appearance, with the rushing water slowing to a trickle or hidden beneath thick ice. Snow-covered trails and the peaceful silence of the river valley create a stark contrast to the roar of summer, offering a serene and magical experience. Whether viewed in the peak of summer or the stillness of winter, Bow Falls remains a timeless and captivating part of Banff’s natural charm.

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