Bow River Trail Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Bow River Trail
This is a favorite hike with families, as the path is mostly paved and easy to navigate with a stroller. The pathway system stretches along the Bow River from Three Sisters all the way up to Larch Island in the North.
The distance we show is an out-and back route, though you can do less if that's too far. Some families do this as a one-way hike, parking a car at either end.
We prefer to park in Three Sisters on Drygas Gate. The Three Sisters pathway initially cuts between houses on the right and a pretty forest on the left. Cross Fitzgerald Rise after 300 m and then continue down to the crossing of the Three Sisters Parkway (1.1 km). From here you can take the easy path to the left or descend to the river and enter the forest for a wonderful walk along the water. Follow this route and eventually come to a stream before rejoining the main trail (2.5 km). Continue along the path, eventually climbing a rise in a series of switchbacks and coming into more open country.
Come down the hill and you’ll notice a milky white lake on your right. Depending on the wind, you may smell it before you see it. You’ll continue on an open meadow path and then come back close to the river (4.3 km) in one of our favorite locations for a portrait in Canmore, with the Bow flowing to the north flanked by mountains on either side of the valley.
The path is evident, though with some branching’s running off. Continue ahead and eventually you come to a large open field with a playground at the far end. Cross this field then walk through a gate down a path and rejoin the Bow River. From here you can see the bridge you will cross to get into downtown Canmore. On the other side of the river, cross the road and walk down River Road.
Turn right on 8th Street and you are on Main Street Canmore.
Looking for more amazing hikes near Canmore? Check out the Grassi Lakes hike, Grotto Canyon hike or the Ha Ling Peak hike.
Insider Hints for Bow River Trail
- Bring your snacks back to the picnic tables on the park you just passed and enjoy a wonderful view!
Getting to the Bow River Trail Trailhead
Park downtown or in Three Sisters. Wander along the pathway as long as your legs will take you.Route Information for Bow River Trail
When to do:
All Year
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Toilets:
Downtown Canmore
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Bow River Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Bow River Trail
Me and my kids would race this trail. Of course they'd win! love it!
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- 01:00
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This is an enjoyable shot and easy hike! The trails are fantastic! The milky white lake was impressive. It's not something that you often see.
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Pretty easy and great. The campground areas have playgrounds, plus many benches along the way to stop, relax or snack.
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This is along the river and a very flat, easy walk. Great scenery for taking pictures with mountains, bridges, and the water. We've seen interesting birds in this area as well.
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It was short and easy plus you'll get to explore and discover wonderful surroundings.
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It's a nice place to stroll around, there are lots of interesting views to enjoy.
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This place is a very romantic place, glad there's no big crowds!
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Another great trip! We visit every couple of years and I look forward to our next visit!!!
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Fantastic trip with amazing landscapes and lots of animals.
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Perfect hike for all ages.
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