Bow Lake Lakeshore

Why this trail

If you want classic Rockies eye candy without a grind, this is it. The Bow Lake Lakeshore Trail hugs a turquoise, glacier-fed lake with big-mountain backdrops, then carries on to the base of Bow Glacier Falls. Views are immediate and constant—this is a high‑reward, low‑effort day.

The hike experience

From the Bow Lake/Num‑Ti‑Jah area, cross a small wooden bridge and follow the north shore. You can walk right beside the lake for uninterrupted water-and-peak views, or take a parallel forest path for more shade and shelter. Many hikers do a pleasant out‑and‑back along the lakeshore; others continue past the head of the lake through a short gorge and across an outwash plain to Bow Glacier Falls, where stairs help you reach better viewpoints.

Expect easy to moderate grades overall. Wind on the shoreline is common and can make it feel colder than the forecast—conditions usually calm once you leave the lakeshore. Dogs must stay leashed.

Stats and difficulty

The full out‑and‑back to Bow Glacier Falls is about 5.6 miles total with roughly 520 feet of elevation gain. That’s an easy–moderate effort for most, taking about 2.5–3.5 hours depending on stops. The surface is mostly packed dirt and gravel with some rocky sections and wooden stairs near the falls.

Scenery and what to look for

Bow Lake’s brilliant aquamarine color comes from glacial silt washing in from the Bow Glacier above—the same system that forms the headwaters of the Bow River. Keep an eye out for reflections of Crowfoot Mountain and Bow Summit on calm mornings. Past the lake, the trail threads a small gorge and spreads onto a glacial outwash plain, a front‑row look at how ice, water, and rock shape this valley.

Best time to go

• Summer (June–September): Peak color when the lake is ice‑free; start early for calm water and fewer people.
• Winter: A serene, snow‑blanketed scene; snowshoes may be needed. Expect cold, short days and potentially challenging conditions.
• Shoulder seasons: Snow and ice can linger—traction and caution required.

Photography is best at calm early morning when reflections are most likely. Arrive early in summer to snag parking and enjoy quieter trails.

Tips

• Do the lakeshore one way and the forest path back for variety.
• Bring layers and a windproof shell; shoreline gusts are common.
• Sun protection helps on the exposed lakeshore; there are no services along the route.
• If you plan to go to the falls, wear shoes with decent grip and budget extra time.

Worth it?

Absolutely. Iconic color, big peaks, and a bonus waterfall with modest effort—it’s one of the park’s most reliable crowd‑pleasers.