Bow Falls

Bow Falls features a 30-foot (9-meter) cascade on the Bow River, flowing over rocky ledges and creating white water rapids visible from multiple viewing platforms near Banff townsite.

The waterfall gained international recognition after appearing in the 1954 film River of No Return starring Marilyn Monroe and Robert Mitchum, becoming a popular filming location in the Canadian Rockies.

Indigenous peoples traditionally used reeds from the Bow River banks to craft bows, giving the river and waterfall their name while considering the area spiritually significant in their cultural practices.

The falls are accessible year-round via a 1.2-mile (1.9-kilometer) walking trail from Banff town center, with parking available for approximately 45 vehicles and a two-hour time limit enforced.

During spring runoff from May to July, water flow increases dramatically due to glacial melt from Bow Glacier, creating a powerful cascade compared to the quieter winter months when portions freeze.

Location: Banff

Address: Bow Falls, Banff, AB T1L 1H5, Canada T1L 1H5 Banff

GPS coordinates: 51.16741,-115.56090

Latest update: November 28, 2025 14:17