Bow River Loop Trail

The Bow River Loop is one of the most underrated trails in the Lake Louise area. While crowds fill the lakeshore, this riverside path offers a tranquil, nearly flat walk through critical wildlife habitat.

Specs. 7.1 km full loop. Elevation gain minimal (30–50 m); almost entirely flat. 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on pace. Easy; wide, well-maintained, suitable for all fitness levels.

Trailhead. The primary trailhead is at the Bow River Parking Lot, opposite the historic Lake Louise Train Station (The Station Restaurant) on Sentinel Road. Access also from the Lake Louise Village via Louise Creek or from the Lake Louise Campground.

Route. From the Sentinel Road trailhead, head south (downstream) on the east bank of the Bow River. The trail follows the river through spruce and fir; the tent section of the Lake Louise Campground (protected by a 1.2 m electric fence) is on your left. At roughly 3.5 km, a large wooden pedestrian bridge crosses to the west side near the hard-sided campground. Turn north and follow the trail back upstream through the Whitehorn Wildlife Corridor. Complete the loop by crossing the second pedestrian bridge just south of the train station.

Wildlife and closures. The trail lies in a high-priority wildlife corridor; prime grizzly bear habitat (riparian buffaloberry foraging). The west side of the loop (between the two bridges) is closed May 15 to October 15. During closure months, treat the trail as an out-and-back on the east side only. Always carry bear spray in an accessible holster and make noise. Do not touch or climb the electric fence around the tent campground.

Scenic highlights. For the best view of Mount Temple, look south while walking the east side; the glaciated face is often reflected in calm eddies. Several gravel bars and small beaches allow safe river access; the water has a milky-blue glacial silt colour, especially in late spring. The wooden bridges offer elevated perspectives for photography.

Logistics. Sentinel Road parking (near the train station) is free and less crowded than the Upper Lakeshore lot but can fill by midday in peak season. From the lakeshore, walk down the Tramline or Louise Creek rather than moving your car. Roam Transit Route 8X (Express) and 8S (Scenic) stop in the village; from Samson Mall it is a 10-minute walk down Lake Louise Drive and Sentinel Road to the trailhead.

History. The Lake Louise Train Station at the trailhead was built in 1910 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, replacing an older log structure from the 1890s. For decades it was the gateway for mountaineers and royalty visiting the “Diamond in the Wilderness.” It now houses The Station Restaurant; original CPR railcars sit on the siding, including “The Delamere,” which serves as a dining room. Post-hike pints with active freight trains on the CP main line. See the summer trail page for stats and nearby trails.