The River Loop
Posted on September 28, 2010 by Scott in biking, running, walking, with kids
The River Loop is a flat, pleasant walk that takes about 25-30 minutes, and it’s located right next to downtown Canmore. It offers great views of the Bow River and surrounding peaks, and is an ideal outing with kids.
THE TRAILHEAD
From downtown Canmore, head west on Main Street (aka 8th Street). At the end of Main Street, you’ll be facing several signs directing you to various destinations like the Canmore Nordic Centre. Turn left onto 8th Avenue. Soon 8th Avenue will naturally veer to the right, turning into Bridge Road and crossing the bridge over the Bow River. Just past the bridge on the left, pull into a graveled parking area.
THE ROUTE
From the parking area, walk back toward the bridge. Just before the bridge is a paved, downward trail on the right-hand side. Unless the gate is closed due to a rising river, take the trail down toward the river and turn right to walk under the bridge.
The bridge across the Bow River © Scott Semple
(viewed from the south)
Continue on the trail until it connects with a gravel service road. Turn right on the service road, heading for a small TransAlta power station in the distance.
When you get to the power station, continue walking along the wooden bridge right in front of the station. The trail will continue arcing to the right until it connects with an old rail bridge. You’re now halfway.
On the opposite side of the rail bridge, you have several options. You can turn left and make the loop longer by walking toward the Canmore Golf Course, winding around several residential areas. You can continue straight ahead for several blocks to join up with the Policeman’s Creek walking trail. Or you can head back to the car by taking your first right on another wide, gravel trail. (Note: There is a small, narrow trail that starts immediately on the right-hand side after crossing the bridge. The main trail is the next one on the right.)
One of several park benches along the Bow River
© Scott Semple
Follow the wide, gravel trail through the trees, along the river and back to the main bridge that crosses the Bow River. Several park benches along the river are available. Again, unless the gates is closed due to rising water, follow the trail underneath the bridge and then back across to your car. (If the gate is closed due to rising water, there is a crosswalk right at the east end of the bridge.)
