One of the Best Hikes on the Icefields Parkway

The Canadian Rockies are full of beautiful peaks, summits, and endless trails to explore. One of the most iconic drives in Alberta, and even in the world, is the Icefields Parkway.

This road connects the towns of Jasper and Banff, two of the most popular destinations when visiting the national parks in Alberta. The parkway is more than just a road between two towns.

It is one of the most beautiful drives anywhere, lined with towering mountains, rushing waterfalls, glaciers, and lakes that seem too blue to be real.

Along the way you can choose from dozens of stops and activities, from quick photo viewpoints to long hikes and hidden spots that feel like your own discovery.

After exploring the parkway and making nearly a dozen different stops, I can confidently say that the best hike we did, and the most memorable stop of the trip, was the Bow Summit hike.

Why Bow Summit is Special

The lakes of the Canadian Rockies are one of the country’s most recognizable natural features. They are as stunning in person as they look in photos, maybe even more so. The water is crystal clear and painted in shades of turquoise and deep blue that do not seem real.

The colors are so strong that they almost look edited, and they shift with the light and angle of the sun. From the ground, the lakes are already breathtaking. From higher ground, where you can see their shape framed by peaks and forests, the view is unforgettable.

What makes Bow Summit stand out is that you do not only get a view of one iconic lake. You get the chance to see two, both of them glowing with the same unreal colors that define the Rockies.

Beginning at Peyto Lake

The Bow Summit hike begins from the Peyto Lake parking area. Peyto Lake is one of the most photographed spots in the Rockies, and it is easy to understand why once you arrive. The lake is about forty kilometers north of Lake Louise along the Icefields Parkway.

There is a large parking lot, although it fills quickly during the busy summer season. From there it is only a short paved walk of about six tenths of a kilometer to the main viewing platform. The trail is well maintained and steadily uphill, making it accessible for most visitors.

Even strollers and wheelchairs can make the journey.

At the top, a wide wooden platform gives a panoramic view over the lake. The shape of the lake is often compared to that of a wolf’s head, and the color is a bright turquoise that almost glows in the sunlight.

It is surrounded by forested slopes and jagged peaks, making it a picture-perfect introduction to the parkway. The only downside is the crowd.

Because it is short and easy, Peyto is one of the busiest viewpoints in the region, and in summer you can expect to share the platform with hundreds of other visitors.

There are public restrooms near the parking area, and it makes for a convenient stop even if you are not planning to continue hiking. As beautiful as Peyto is, I recommend treating it as a quick stop before moving on to the real highlight, which is the hike up to Bow Summit.

The Trail to Bow Summit

From the viewpoint at Peyto, the trail continues toward Bow Summit. Signs clearly mark the route, so it is easy to follow. Within minutes of leaving the crowded viewing area, the atmosphere changes. The noise of the crowds fades, and suddenly you are surrounded by quiet forest and mountain air.

During our hike we only saw a handful of other people, and for long stretches it felt like we had the trail completely to ourselves.

The full distance, including the Peyto section, is about six and a half kilometers round trip. It usually takes between two and three hours depending on your pace. The trail is rated moderate.

It is well defined and not difficult to follow, but it does climb steadily with some steeper sections, especially as you approach the summit.

The scenery along the way keeps the climb interesting. You pass through dense forest where sunlight filters through the trees and opens up to occasional mountain views.

At one point the trail brings you to a small waterfall and a grassy clearing where you can stop to rest and enjoy the sound of rushing water. Higher up, the forest begins to thin, revealing views of nearby glaciers and more rugged peaks.

Reaching the summit is the reward that makes the effort worthwhile. From the top you can see Bow Lake far below, framed by dramatic peaks that rise on all sides. The turquoise water stands out against the Rocky Mountains and green forests.

Looking out, you can trace the path of the Icefields Parkway winding through the valley, and even spot the parking lot where you began, which really gives you a sense of how much elevation you have gained.

On our visit we had the summit nearly to ourselves, with only a couple of other hikers arriving briefly before leaving. The quiet made the experience even better, giving us the chance to sit and take it all in without distraction.

Tips for Hiking Bow Summit

Like most trails along the Icefields Parkway, the Bow Summit hike is at its busiest during July and August. Parking fills quickly, and the trail can be more crowded in the middle of the day.

Going earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon usually makes for a quieter experience, especially at Peyto Lake.

The weather in the Rockies can be unpredictable, even in the summer. It is best to wear layers so you can adjust as the temperature changes. Mornings can be cool, but it warms up quickly as you climb and you will want to shed a jacket or hoodie along the way.

Make sure to bring water and a few snacks since there are no services on the trail itself. Mosquito spray is useful in summer, especially when you pass through forested areas or stop near water. Carrying bear spray is also strongly recommended and very important in this region of Canada.

You can purchase it in jasper or Banff at many different stores, and it’s advised to carry it on you at all times when on trails, as this is bear country and sightings are not uncommon, even on popular trails.

During our time in Alberta, we didn’t spot any bears, but there were many bear warnings out as there were spotting multiple times around the province.