July 17, 2025
On our second day in Banff while staying at the Lake Louise Overflow CG, we decided to drive the Bow Valley Parkway (or the 1A). Before the Trans Canada highway, the Bow Valley Parkway was the original road linking Banff and Lake Louise in the early 1900s.The Bow Valley Parkway runs parallel to the Trans Canada, with the Bow River between the two.The parkway is primarily used for sightseeing and outdoor recreation (biking).
Our first stop was Morant’s Curve. We actually missed it and had to turn around. Morant’s Curve is a photo hot spot in the Rockies. At this spot we overlooked the train tracks down an epic valley. I do love a good train/train track photo! The only thing better would have been a train on the tracks and maybe some snow!
Another pull-out was The Backswamp. It doesn’t sound so pretty, but, it was a good viewpoint with a stunning vista of the Bow River and its surroundings.
Another favorite stop on the Bow Valley Parkway is Castle Junction. Castle Junction marks the halfway point between Banff and Lake Louise. It’s where the Valley connects to the Trans-Canada. We could not see the mountain due to the cloud cover. However, when we got back on Trans Canada Highway, i had a good view out my window.
Along the parkway, there are 3 campgrounds, numerous scenic/picnic areas and informational pullouts along the parkway. Ken drove slowly and pulled over several times so that we could take in the sights at our leisure.
Another look at one of the Wildlife Crossings
I am so glad Ken was curious about the Bow Valley Parkway!
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