FAQs

  • Our rates include all accommodation and all your meals (hot breakfast, packed lunch, 4-course dinner), as well as tea, coffee, and snacks for all guests during your stay.

    While we appreciate your generous spirit, we have a strict no tipping policy at The Lodge. Our staff receive a fair and living wage and we ask that you do not tip our staff.

  • Your stay includes a four-course dinner, packed lunch, hearty breakfast, and après-ski/hike snacks.

    All meals are served at a set time each day (breakfast is 8am, dinner is 6:30pm), and our delicious daily menus are arranged in advance by our head Chef.

    As we are in an isolated location we are unable to run to the grocery store, so our ability to cater to personal food preferences is limited. That said, please let us know at the time of your booking if you have allergies or other medical diet requirements and we will happily work out meal accommodations in advance.

  • The Lodge at Bow Lake is a true escape. There are no telephones, TVs or wifi. But you might just find.. the breath-taking nature and human-to-human conversations are a far superior replacement.



  • Check in time at The Lodge is daily from 3:00pm-5:00pm.

    Please consider this two-hour window when making any additional travel plans and reservations, particularly when arriving in the area on the same day. In consideration of creating an awesome guest experience, we ask that our guests check in between 3:00pm and 5:00pm to accommodate the guest dining schedule.

    If you are unable to arrive before 5pm, please let us know so that we can make properly accommodate you.

  • We recognize that plans can change unexpectedly and do our best to accommodate guests. Our cancellation policy is as follows.

    • A deposit of two nights accommodation at the base rate is required at time of booking.

    • In the event of a cancellation more than 21 days in advance of the intended reservation, a refund minus a $200 cancellation fee will be issued.

    • In the event of a cancellation less than 21 days in advance of the intended stay, the deposit becomes non-refundable.

    • If guests need to cancel their reservation and we have available space at a different time in the 2024 season, we will shift their booking at no additional cost. Bookings can only be shifted within the same season and there is no guarantee of space for rescheduled reservations.

    All cancellations are subject to our cancellation policy. We strongly encourage guests to have travel insurance and recognize that unexpected events including road closures, travel restrictions, illnesses, inclement weather and wildfires may alter or change guests’ ability to visit The Lodge at Bow Lake. These events are are subject to our cancellation policy. We suggest that you purchase trip cancellation insurance or check with your credit card provider regarding their trip cancellation coverage.

  • If you are a guest wishing to stay at the Lodge during the winter season, and participate in any activities, The Lodge requires that you read and agree to our winter waiver before arrival at The Lodge.

    A sample of the waiver can be reviewed here: Winter Waiver

  • Children over the age of 6 are welcome at The Lodge at Bow Lake. However, only our Fireweed rooms have additional daybeds for use by children ages 6-16.

  • Unfortunately we are not able to accommodate pets, since all of our current rooms are located inside The Lodge.

  • Winter is a glorious time to visit Bow Lake. With the proper clothing, you can have an enjoyable day out in the mountains in almost any weather. We have put together a list of clothing which is key to enjoying your time outdoors. If you find yourself wondering about clothing choices, you can always feel free to contact us, or maybe this is your excuse to upgrade your winter quiver of clothing. Our friends at Wilson Sports in Lake Louise have a great selection of outdoor wear that you can take advantage of on your way to the lodge. 

    FOR THE OUTDOORS

    The key in the winter is to dress in layers. This allows you to add and subtract as your exertion level changes or the weather changes, which it often does on a dime in the mountains. Having one heavy layer often will create too much heat and leave you cold and sweaty!

    • Windproof and waterproof shell

    • Windproof and waterproof shell pants (insulated ski pants are not ideal as you are often too warm)

    • Fleece or puffy jacket (light down or synthetic down jacket)

    • Base layer (they come in a variety of weights)

    • Long johns or leggings

    • Down shorts – these are a great addition on colder days

    • Warm ski socks

    • Winter boots or sturdy winter hiking boots

    • Toque

    • Mitts or gloves

    • Buff or neck tubes are invaluable

    • Day Pack

    • Ski gear (cross-country or Alpine Touring) or snowshoes

    • Ski poles

    • Ski boots

    • Avalanche gear (Probe, shovel and beacon) — we have a limited number at The Lodge for guest use if necessary.

    • Water bottle

    • Thermos

    • Sunglasses

    FOR THE LODGE

    The Lodge is kept at a comfortable temperature; however, depending on your comfort level, here are a few suggestions to ensure that your stay is comfortable. We are casual at The Lodge, so there is no need for a jacket or tie or a dress for dinner — think “mountain casual.”

    • Cozy indoor sweater or fleece

    • Clothes for lounging in The Lodge, eating dinner

    • Slippers or indoor shoes

    • Toiletries

    • Book

    • Bathing suit for sauna


    DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE WINTER PACKING LIST HERE.

  • PACKING FOR THE OUTDOORS

    The weather in the mountains can be temperamental, and as a result, it can often echo with the Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, all within the same day. Being prepared means enjoying your time out on the trails regardless of the weather. Find below what we put in our packs each day.

    • Hiking boots

    • Wind and Waterproof jacket

    • Fleece jacket or puffy jacket (light down or synthetic down jacket)

    • Rain pants

    • Hiking pants and shirt

    • Hiking socks

    • Hiking poles

    • Day pack (25-35L)

    • Sunglasses

    • Sunscreen

    • Water bottle

    • Toque & mitts (in the bottom of your pack, we never leave home without them)

    • Ball cap or sun hat

    • Swimsuit for brave-hearted folks jumping in the lake

    PACKING FOR THE LODGE

    The Lodge is kept at a comfortable temperature; however, depending on your comfort level, here are a few suggestions to ensure that your stay is comfortable. We are casual at The Lodge, so there is no need for a jacket or tie or a dress for dinner — think “mountain casual."

    • Cozy clothes for the lounge and dining room

    • Slippers or indoor shoes

    • Book


    DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE SUMMER PACKING LIST HERE.

  • We serve a wide variety of treats and snacks at our Café including gluten-free and dairy-free options.

  • We are thrilled and honoured you would consider us for your special event. However, at this time, we are unfortunately unable to host these events during our main summer season; however, if a fall gathering is in your plans reach out to us.

  • Yes. You will require a park pass for your vehicle while staying with us. This can be purchased at the main park gates on the Trans Canada Highway or at the entrance to the Icefields Parkway.

  • The Hanging Glacier Cafe is open to day visitors every day during our summer season, June 1st to Oct 6, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. For our winter 2025 season (January 30 to April 7), the Café will be open on weekends, Friday-Sunday.

    Alternatively, you are welcome to join us for a 4-course set meal in the Historic Elkhorn Dining Room, when you make a reservation by completing the reservation form here.

  • The Lodge is a magical place in the winter where you can make it your home base for a multitude of winter activities or even just hanging out in front of a blazing fire place. Just out the door you can cross country ski, snowshoe, back country ski tour or just a short drive down the road is the famous Lake Louise Ski area.  The star gazing and northern lights can be pretty special too!

    WINTER ACTIVITY WARNING:

    Backcountry winter touring is thrilling and adventurous; however, as exciting as it may seem, any winter activity in the backcountry also poses significant risks and challenges that could be life-threatening. These terrains are often unpredictable, unpaved, and remote, presenting hazards such as avalanches, strong winds, hidden rocks, treacherous terrains, and extreme weather conditions. It is, therefore, imperative to exercise caution and take all safety measures seriously while planning any backcountry winter activities. 

    All guests staying at The Lodge will be required to read, understand, and sign a waiver prior to arrival at The Lodge.

    It's advisable to go with an experienced backcountry guide or travel in a group. Guides take precautions; however, they cannot guarantee your safety. Often, solo participants face the highest risk of danger as it is harder to get help in case of an emergency. Touring the backcountry with a partner or a group helps to reduce the chances of accidents, making the tour more enjoyable and less risky.

    As you prepare to embark on an exciting backcountry ski tour, it is of utmost importance that you read and agree to the risks and hazards associated with this activity. You will be required to read, understand, and sign a waiver prior to staying at The Lodge. You can find a copy of the waiver here.