Bow River Loop

Difficulty
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Very Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
2.1 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
54 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Bow River Loop

The Bow River Loop trail begins just shy of downtown Canmore, making it an easy walk to town. It is a simple trail with unobstructed world-class views along the way. This trail is full of benches and viewpoints accessible to all abilities. Make sure to head over the bridge from downtown to walk along the famed Bow River on this popular trail.

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Route Description for Bow River Loop

To start the Bow River Loop, cross under the bridge from the parking area along the water. You will begin hiking left from the parking lot to get to this point. Continue along the well maintained pathway that hugs the banks of the water. From here you will be able to see many locals and tourists sharing the space on paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, bikes, and more.

Pass the Spur Line Trail junction and continue to the Canmore Engine Bridge. Cross here, and be sure to stop for photos down river. After the Engine Bridge, take a right onto Higashikawa Trail. This trail follows the opposite bank of the river back to the vehicle parking area.

Getting to the Bow River Loop Trailhead

To get to the Bow River Loop in Canmore, begin in the downtown core on 8th Street. Travel south on 8th Street until you reach the intersection with 8th Avenue.. Turn left onto 8th Avenue and follow it as it curves around a corner and crosses a bridge over the Bow River. Take an immediate left after the bridge into the public parking lot.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Bow River Loop Elevation Graph

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