Bow Valley Parkway

An Awe inspiring hidden gem as not many notice it. Beautiful and beautiful
The best alternative to highway from Banff to Lake Louise

Like this road very much, every time when I return from Jasper or Lake Louise, I do not repeat highway 1, I drive this way instead.

I was there in June 2022. The long stretch from Johnston Canyon was closed to motorised traffic. Only bikes and hikers were allowed.

The notices online said it was to allow for bears to be protected as there were too many bears being killed by speeding cars.

We walked for a few hours and did not see any wildlife at all. It felt like we were in a zombie movie where all residents have vacated.

It was a very nice and lonely walk. But could be scary because it was so quiet.

Really nice drive between Banff and Lake Louise. Relaxing alternative to highway if you are not in a hurry and what to enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Plenty of stop points along the way.
Please do not use if you want to drive fast! This road has a low speed limit and full of tourists regularly stopping for views, as well as cyclists on the road.

If you are on your way from Lake Louise to Canmore (and vice versa), take this highway for a very scenic route. Many beautiful places to see and the drive is absolutely stunning (just watch out for bikers)! There was no traffic and it’s much more interesting that driving on Highway 1. Highly recommend!