The Hike to Bow Glacier Falls (Icefields Parkway)
The Icefields Parkway is one of those drives that feels almost unreal—so many lakes, mountains, glaciers, and wildlife sightings that it can honestly be overwhelming to decide where to stop when you’re working with limited time.
We’ve been through this area twice before, so we had a good idea of what to expect… and somehow it still felt like the same lesson all over again: the more you see, the more you realize how much you haven’t seen yet.
One of our favorite stops is Bow Lake, right along the Icefields Parkway. This time, we decided to hike the Bow Glacier Falls Trail.
Quick Trail Notes (What to Expect)
· Start time: We started around 6:00 PM
· Why evening is perfect: In June, it stays light until after 10:00 PM, so you still have plenty of hiking time
· Parking tip: Parking was easy in the evening. The next day around 2:00 PM, the lot was so packed that cars were backed up along the highway. If you can, go later in the day.
The Trail: Water, Bridges, and a Canyon Surprise
The first part of the hike is a beautiful walk along the lake—streams, little rivers, and water flowing under briges as you pick your way along the shoreline. Eventually, you reach the area where the water flows in from the glacier, and the trail turns away from the lake and heads toward the mountains, following the river upstream.
We hit a couple of small snow patches that were easy to cross, plus two areas with remnants of older landslides. Nothing felt difficult—just the kind of terrain where you slow down, watch your footing, and keep moving.
About a mile or so farther along the river, the walls start to rise and the trail begins to feel more canyon-like. Then comes one of the most memorable parts of the hike: a stone staircase that climbs above the canyon.
We definitely snuck a few looks over the edge (carefully), because the water below is that impossible aqua-green, clear and fast-moving.
Wildlife Moment: Martens!
We also spotted a few martens, which felt like a bonus. They’re unusual little animals—quick and curious—and to me they looked like a cross between a beaver and a woodchuck (even though I know that’s not exactly right). Either way, it was one of those “only on the Parkway” moments.
Big Views… and a Hard Stop
As we gained elevation, the views opened up in a big way. When we turned back and looked out over the valley, we could see the Bow Glacier in the distance—immense and impressive—and the falls were visible too, beckoning us closer.
We followed the trail down into the valley and kept going through a series of gentle ups and downs until we reached a very official sign: Trail Closed due to potential avalanches.
When we reached the closure sign, it made total sense why it was there. In June 2025, a major rockfall/rockslideoccurred near Bow Glacier Falls, killing two hikers and injuring others. The area has remained closed indefinitely while safety and geotechnical
assessments continue, and entering the closure zone can come with fines up to $25,000. As much as we wanted to keep going, that sign was a firm (and important) reminder to respect closures in mountain terrain.
Was It Still Worth It?
Yes. Of course we wished we could have gone that last stretch closer to the falls, but the hike was still beautiful and absolutely worthwhile. Even from a distance, the glacier and falls were impressive—and the canyon section alone made the hike memorable.
On the way back, we enjoyed new angles of the raging water through the canyon, and by the time we reached the lake again it was getting late—but the colors were still glowing and the views were still stunning.
Our Best Tips for This Hike
· Start in the evening if you can (especially in June) to avoid the worst crowds and parking stress
· Bring good footwear for a few snow patches and uneven sections
· Don’t skip the canyon staircase section—it’s a highlight
· Respect closures (even when you really want to keep going)
· Check current trail status before you head out
Where This Fits in Our Icefields Parkway Series
This hike is a great add-on for an Icefields Parkway itinerary because it gives you that classic Parkway combo: glacier views, aqua water, and dramatic terrain—without needing a full-day commitment.
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