The Ultimate Guide to Bow Summit: A Paradise for Hikers
Bow Summit is one of my favorite hikes in Banff and I definitely recommend doing it when you visit! The trail offers stunning views of Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the surrounding mountains. You’ll gain just over 1000 ft feet on this 4.1 mile round trip trail. Expect to spend about 3-4 hours hiking this, depending on how many breaks you take and how long you spend at the top.
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Bow Summit-Getting There
The trail is located on the Icefields, about an hour north of the town of Banff. There is a large parking lot at the trailhead, but since Peyto Lake Viewpoint is so popular, this parking lot will be full by midday. You’ll find two bathrooms on the left side of the parking lot and the trailhead on the right side.
Peyto Lake Viewpoint
The short trail to Peyto Lake Viewpoint is approx. 0.3miles. While this isn’t a long walk, be aware that it is a steep one. Take breaks as you need, and don’t worry the steep walk is worth it! You’ll continue straight up this paved path until you reach the viewing platform. I recommend getting there early to beat the crowds. We were at the platform around 7:00 am and there were only about 5-7 other people there. When we came back at 11:00am after finishing the bow summit, it was PACKED. On the platform, below the platform, people were everywhere.
Bow Summit- The Trail
Once you finish taking in the views of Peyto Lake, follow the trail directly behind the platform. The trail turns to a dirt path and split into two trails. You can take either path, this trail is a loop and will both lead you to the bow summit trail head. The trail starts off relatively flat with minimal gain, taking you through the trees. You’ll slowly start to notice the elevation grade getting steeper as you keep going. There is really only one trail to follow, but at one place a side trail branches off to the left side. Stay right, following the arrow made from rocks on the ground.
Once you make it through the trees the rest is pretty relentless until you reach the summit. Take breaks as needed, taking in the surrounding mountains when you do!
We thought we reached the top at a flat grassy area, however from here you’ll have a little further to go. The trail after this part is very narrow. It will branch of either to the left or right, I recommend staying right. The trail to the left is more narrow and is right along a ledge, making it a little scary. You’ll know you’ve reached the top when the trail disappears, you come to a rocky area, and you can see bow lake to the left side.
When you are ready to return, just follow your steps back to the parking lot!
What to Take on the Trail
Bow Summit is the highest point on the Icefield Parkway, meaning it can stay pretty chilling year round. Be sure to dress in layers, especially if starting the hike early in the day. Even if you’re starting later, you should still pack an extra layer in your backpack, because it can be pretty windy at the top.
Bear Spray– you should always carry bear spray on any hike you do in Banff! Even if it’s not usually an area where bears frequent. It’s always better to be safe then sorry! If this is your first time using bear spray, be sure to remove the safety zip tie before starting the hike!
Snacks- you’ll be burning a lot of energy on this trail so you’ll need some snacks to replenish! Personally we took a few granola bars, sandwiches, and donut sticks (a nice reward for when you reach the top).
Water- Be sure to pack lots of water! Even if it is cold out and you are not sweating a bunch, you still need water to make sure you do not get dehydrated.
Bow Summit
Bow Summit is an amazing hike in Banff and definitely one of my favorite! With such amazing views, it one you don’t want to miss. After you finish Bow Summit, be sure to stop by Bow Lake to see the lake up close.
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