Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint
Witness the majestic, receding Crowfoot Glacier and its surreal summer snow. A poignant stop on the Icefields Parkway.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Surreal snow & frozen lake
Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint
Best Time
Surreal snow & frozen lake

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the majestic, receding Crowfoot Glacier and its surreal summer snow. A poignant stop on the Icefields Parkway.
"Incredible glacier views — snow in the summer feels so surreal! The frozen lake added even more magic."
📸 Capture the Glacier's Majesty
The glacier is receding; capture its stunning views before it's gone. Snow in summer adds a unique surreal element.
🚗 Don't Miss Bow Lake
Just 1 km north, Bow Lake offers a more unobstructed and arguably better view of the lake and mountains.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crowfoot Glacier
Main viewpoint
Witness the majestic, albeit receding, Crowfoot Glacier. Snow in summer adds a surreal touch to the icy landscape.

Bow Lake Panorama
Near Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint
Enjoy a more unobstructed view of the stunning Bow Lake and its mountainous backdrop. Perfect for quiet contemplation.

Bow Glacier Falls
Accessible via trails
For an up-close experience, take the trails to see Bow Glacier Falls cascading down the mountainside.
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Beyond the Viewpoint
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Glacier's Majesty
The glacier is receding; capture its stunning views before it's gone. Snow in summer adds a unique surreal element.
🚗 Don't Miss Bow Lake
Just 1 km north, Bow Lake offers a more unobstructed and arguably better view of the lake and mountains.
❄️ Winter Wonderland Views
Visit in late October for spectacular winter views, even with snow covering the glacier.
🚶♀️ Explore Trails for Closer Views
Take the trails for an up-close encounter with Bow Glacier Falls and a more intimate glacier perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Glacier's Majesty
The glacier is receding; capture its stunning views before it's gone. Snow in summer adds a unique surreal element.
🚗 Don't Miss Bow Lake
Just 1 km north, Bow Lake offers a more unobstructed and arguably better view of the lake and mountains.
❄️ Winter Wonderland Views
Visit in late October for spectacular winter views, even with snow covering the glacier.
🚶♀️ Explore Trails for Closer Views
Take the trails for an up-close encounter with Bow Glacier Falls and a more intimate glacier perspective.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint offers impressive, albeit distant, glacier views and a surreal experience with summer snow. While some consider it an 'ok' stop, many recommend it as a prelude to the more picturesque Bow Lake just a kilometer north. The receding nature of the glacier is a poignant reminder to visit sooner rather than later.
"Sorry, but this is just an "ok" stopping point. Surprised that this is rated so high.
Maybe it's because people stop here first before Bow Lake and it's the start of their journey north. The Bow Lake turnoff and viewpoint less than 1 km north of here is much nicer and offers a better unobstructed view of the lake and mountains. Crowfood Glacier is better viewed from this location, but it's quite a distance away."
Cory Sakai
"Incredible glacier views — snow in the summer feels so surreal! The frozen lake added even more magic to the whole experience. A must-see!"
Yuliia Prokhorenkova
"The view of bow lake and the mountains were 😍😍😍🤩🤩🤩 we came here late October. The parking overlooks the lake so perfectly. This is a good place to park and just sit to enjoy the view. Highly recommend this viewpoint!"
Esther
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint is easily accessible by car along the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North) in Banff National Park. It's located just north of Bow Lake, approximately 30-40 minutes drive from Lake Louise. There's a designated parking area right off the highway.
While there isn't direct public transport to the viewpoint itself, Parks Canada operates shuttle services along the Icefields Parkway during peak season, which may stop at or near popular viewpoints like Crowfoot Glacier. Check the Parks Canada website for current shuttle routes and schedules.
The main viewpoint is directly accessible from the highway parking lot, offering immediate views. For closer access to Bow Glacier Falls, trails are available, so wear appropriate footwear.
Road closures on the Icefields Parkway can occur due to weather, especially in winter. Always check Parks Canada or Alberta 511 for current road conditions before your trip.
The parking lot can get busy, especially during peak summer months and on weekends. Arriving earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Banff National Park, which includes access to Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint. You can purchase passes online or at park gates.
No, there is no separate entrance fee for the viewpoint itself. Your Parks Canada Discovery Pass covers access to all attractions within the national park.
The viewpoint is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access and visibility can be affected by weather conditions, especially in winter.
Tickets are not required for the viewpoint itself, only the Parks Canada Discovery Pass. These can be purchased in advance online to save time.
Standard national park regulations apply. Stay on marked trails, do not feed wildlife, and pack out everything you pack in. Be mindful of the receding glacier and do not attempt to walk on it.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the glacier and surrounding landscape. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and glacier. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the glacier or distant peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The main parking lot offers excellent panoramic views. For different perspectives, consider the short trails that lead towards Bow Glacier Falls, offering unique angles of the glacier and the waterfall.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. You must obtain a permit from Parks Canada and adhere to strict regulations. Check the Parks Canada website for the latest drone policies.
Remember that the glacier is actively receding. Capture its current state respectfully. Also, be aware of changing weather conditions, which can impact light and visibility for photography.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can spend anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour or more, depending on your interest. A quick stop for photos takes little time, but exploring the nearby trails or simply enjoying the view can extend your visit.
Yes, trails are available that lead towards Bow Glacier Falls, offering a more immersive experience and closer views of the glacier and falls. These are generally moderate hikes.
Basic facilities typically include parking and interpretive signage. Restrooms may be available seasonally at nearby viewpoints like Bow Lake. Pack water and snacks.
The main viewpoint from the parking lot is generally accessible. However, the trails can be uneven and may not be suitable for all mobility devices. Check with Parks Canada for specific accessibility information.
While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, you might encounter ground squirrels, marmots, or various bird species. Larger mammals like elk or bears are possible but less common right at the viewpoint. Always maintain a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families who enjoy a bit more activity, the trails towards Bow Glacier Falls offer a moderate hike. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and are supervised. Packing snacks and water is recommended, as facilities are limited. Consider combining this stop with the nearby Bow Lake, which offers more space for kids to explore safely along the lake shore.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best results, aim for the golden hours – sunrise and sunset – when the light is soft and warm, enhancing the textures and colors. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive landscape, while a telephoto lens can isolate details of the glacier or distant waterfalls. Remember to check weather conditions, as clouds can add significant drama to the mountain scenery.
🚗 Road Trippers on the Icefields Parkway
Given its location, it's often one of the first major viewpoints encountered when heading north from Lake Louise. Many travelers suggest using it as a brief introduction to the glacial landscapes before reaching more expansive views further along the parkway. Don't forget to factor in time for potential crowds, especially during peak season.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Receding Crowfoot Glacier
While the main viewpoint provides a good overview, the experience can be enhanced by understanding the glacier's geological history and its current environmental significance. The contrast between the icy blue of the glacier and the surrounding rugged mountain landscape is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours.
It's crucial for visitors to appreciate the glacier from a safe distance and avoid any attempts to walk on it, as this can be dangerous and harmful to the fragile ice formations. The viewpoint serves as an important educational stop, highlighting the impact of global warming on these iconic natural wonders.
Comparing Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint and Bow Lake
Reviewers often suggest visiting Bow Lake after or instead of Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint for a more impactful visual. The reflections on Bow Lake, especially on calm mornings, are breathtaking and a favorite subject for photographers. The accessibility from the parking lot to the lake's edge also makes it a more relaxed and enjoyable stop for many.
Therefore, while Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint is a worthwhile stop for its namesake glacier, consider it a prelude to the more celebrated and arguably more picturesque vistas found at Bow Lake. Both offer unique perspectives of the Canadian Rockies' glacial beauty.
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