Bow Lake sits at an elevation of 1920 meters and spends most of the year locked away in ice. The lake acts as the source of the Bow River that flows through Banff, Canmore, and Calgary. When we stop at Bow Lake you will learn the story of Jimmy Simpson who was one of the most important guides, outfitter, lodge operator, hunter, naturalist and artist in the Canadian Rockies. This story is about a legendary man who ascended some of the highest peaks in the range and guided leading scientists, mountaineers, big-game hunters and world-famous artists through some of the most unimaginable scenery on earth to entertain thousands of visitors at his famous lodge at Bow Lake.

Before named Peyto the lake was known as Doghead Lake—exactly what it resembles from any high point near its south end looking north. It was renamed for guide/outfitter, Bill Peyto, who would later become one of Canada’s first Banff National Park warden. The panoramic lookout is insanely beautiful.

Deep in the Canadian Rockies, the Athabasca Glacier is one of the region’s most loved sights. This icy attraction draws people from across the country, thanks in part to its proximity to the Icefields Parkway – making it easily accessible.