Overview
Legendary Rockies outfitter Jimmy Simpson first camped here in 1898 and built a log cabin in 1922, marking the start of what is now The Lodge at Bow Lake (formerly Num-Ti-Jah Lodge). The lodge was expanded to its current form in 1950 and recently renamed following consultation with Indigenous elders. The lake itself is a free natural viewpoint, with only the park entry fee applying separately. It's about a 40-50 minute drive from downtown Banff along the Icefields Parkway, making it easy to combine with a visit to Peyto Lake.
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours (outdoor natural site; winter road conditions may limit access)
Travel Tips
The roadside viewpoint offers views of Crowfoot Glacier and Mount Thompson across the lake, and the lodge cafe is a nice spot for a break.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to Banff, Canada from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Canada on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to Banff on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in Banff with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "Banff 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Bow Lake
Tap a pin on the map to jump to that attraction.
Lake Louise
An emerald lake fed by the Victoria Glacier — the symbol of the Canadian Rockies.
📍 33.4km away
Moraine Lake
A turquoise lake encircled by ten peaks — a scene once featured on Canadian currency.
📍 43.1km away
Banff Avenue
Banff town's main street, framed by Cascade Mountain - a quintessential mountain village scene.
📍 82.4km away
Lake Minnewanka
Banff's largest lake, known for boat cruises and wildlife sightings.
📍 83.4km away
Things to Do in Banff
Lake Louise Canoeing
Paddle a red canoe on emerald Lake Louise toward the Victoria Glacier - a signature Rockies activity. Available June-October, reservations recommended.
Sunshine Village Skiing
One of Banff's three ski resorts and home to the longest season (November to May). Ski or snowboard on 8,000 acres with panoramic Rockies views.
Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer
Ride a custom Ice Explorer vehicle onto the Athabasca Glacier and walk on 10,000-year-old ice. Drink glacier water and stand atop the Columbia Icefield.