Bow River
Bow River is a glacial river in the province of Alberta, Canada. Today, it draws over 4 million visitors to Banff National Park each year.
In this quick guide, we’ll talk about where you could go to enjoy Bow River, unpack its ecosystems, and delve into questions about its most intriguing attractions.
Where Is Bow River In Canada?
The source of Bow River is the Bow Glacier in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
The Bow River runs from this glacial source and flows east, then south. Eventually, it merges with Oldman River, and their flow transforms into the Saskatchewan.
The entire river is within the borders of Alberta, Canada, and the majority of it is within the bounds of Banff National Park.
Hike Bow River, Canmore, AB Canada
Canmore is a town in Bow Valley, just outside Banff National Park. Visitors can start in the Canmore Nordic Center Provincial Park and hike the Bow River Trail.
The Bow River Trail is an easy, 3.7 mile out-and-back trail. It’s a scenic path that follows the Bow River, crossing the Bow River Bridge. The route is dog-friendly, and it offers plenty of spots to stop to fish or birdwatch.
Start Your Adventure With Bow River Calgary
Calgary is a city of over 1.1 million people, and the Bow River runs right through its center. People can even travel by boat to visit the historic Fort Calgary.
Alberta’s urban center is a fun launch point for Bow River adventures. Guided kayak or paddle boat tours, “Lazy river” floats, and even surfing are options. River surfing has seen a popularity boom in Calgary lately, as the Calgary River Wave Park has caught on.
Experience The Unexpected At Bow River, Banff National Park
The Bow River watershed is crucial to the ecosystems within Banff National Park. As it flows, it redistributes minerals, empowering a strong nutrient cycle.
It’s also one of the sources of freshwater sustaining the unique web of flora and fauna in the park’s montane ecoregions. Riverside wildlife photo sessions are an increasingly popular way to appreciate them.
How To Traverse Bow River
Book a Bow River Float Trip (Gentle Cruise)
This leisurely-paced, non-motorized tour guides you to hidden gems along the river—including riverside spots where buffalo sleep, wildflower-filled banks, and enchanting waterfalls. Cruises range from luxury (small party size, elevated floors, hors d’oeuvres and champagne service) to large, practical rafts.
Go Rafting On Bow River In Banff National Park
Bow River rafting is mechanically similar to a float trip, but it’s an experiential 180. Catch whitewater rapids, zip around hairpin “horseshoe” turns, and try a raft-based cliff jump.
Fly Fish From A Flat-Bottomed Drift Boat
Drift boat fly fishing tours include gear and expert guidance, making the sport accessible for anglers at all skill levels. Bow River is a hotspot for rainbow trout, whitefish, and pike, drawing in fishers from all backgrounds in its peak season.
Explore Bow River, Canada On Caravan’s Canadian Rockies Tour
Every Caravan tour is all-inclusive, so you can skip the travel-planning stress! Instead, book your spot and enjoy the ride. You might just find yourself riding right down Bow River on our Tour of Glacier National Park & The Canadian Rockies. Join us for nine days of river float cruises, enchanting nature encounters, and magnificent landscapes you won’t see anywhere else.
For more information, call toll-free at 1-800-CARAVAN (227-2826). Or, call 1-312-321-9800 to book your spot.