Bow Valley Parkway

This 58 km (35 mi) route between Banff and Lake Louise is more leisurely than the Trans-Canada Hwy 1 (Map 1). To protect wildlife (and cyclists), the speed limit is mostly 60 kph (40 mph); watch for elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer and bears. From Banff go 5.5 km (3.4 mi) west on the TransCanada Hwy to the Bow Valley Pkwy exit. Muleshoe Picnic Area (11 km/7 mi) features wetlands bird habitat. At Johnston Canyon (25 km/15 mi) walk the easy 2.7 km (1.7 mi) interpretive trail along catwalks anchored to cliffs to two lovely waterfalls; a restaurant is at the trailhead. Moose Meadows (27 km/17 mi) was once Silver City, a town with 5 mines, 6 hotels and 2000 residents from 1880 to 1887. No silver was found; the claim was ‘salted’ to attract investors. Down the road, unmistakable Castle Mountain’s steep, crenelated cliffs were formed when older rock was thrust up and over younger rock. The Parkway climbs to Castle Mountain Viewpoint (36 km/22 mi) with expansive valley views. Baker Creek Bistro’s (52 km/33 mi) deck is an inviting stop for a cold drink. Farther along, Morant’s Curve is a look-out with Bow River and railway view named for Canadian Pacific Railway photographer Nicholas Morant. The Bow Valley Parkway rejoins the Hwy 1 at the village of Lake Louise. Before June 25, Banff to Johnston Canyon is voluntarily closed 6 pm-9 am to protect wildlife.

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