Nestled in the Rockies
since 1922
Untouched wilderness, historic charm, all-inclusive comfort.
The Lodge at Bow Lake is a one-of-a-kind, intimate wilderness retreat, originally built in 1922 by legendary mountain guide Jimmy Simpson. Today, we honour The Lodge’s rich history by preserving its heritage while thoughtfully blending modern comforts to make every stay relaxed and memorable.
Craft your chapter in the story of this historic retreat.
Forge lasting memories, cultivate friendships, and weave your experiences into our enduring legacy.
Have you known us
by another name?
The Lodge sits on land that has been home to Indigenous peoples for generations. The Nations of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Stoney Nakoda, Tsuut’ina, Ktunaxa, Secwepemc, Mountain Cree as well as the Métis Homeland have all traditionally called this area part of their territory.
At The Lodge we honour the deep history of the property and individuals who built it while valuing open and honest communication with Indigenous people connected to the area. In working with Indigenous consultants and Elders from the Stoney Nakoda Nation, it was determined that the original name of The Lodge, “Num-Ti-Jah,” was not officially gifted to Jimmy Simpson, nor spelled correctly. Therefore, at the Elder’s recommendation, the new stewards of The Lodge decided to remove it from the name.
As staff and owners at The Lodge at Bow Lake, we are deeply thankful for the stories and information shared with us by surrounding Indigenous communities, and are committed to continued learning.
“Someday I’ll build a shack there.”
In 1898, twenty-one-year-old mountaineer, trapper, guide and Scottish-runaway Jimmy Simpson passed the location The Lodge now stands and said, “someday I’ll build a shack there.” About 25 years later, he did, and ten years after that the original “shack” would become a 24-guest-room lodge, complete with a parlour, dining room, and horse stables, ready to support the guests coming through on the newly built Banff-Jasper highway.
The original construction, expansion, and day-to-day operations of The Lodge took place under Simpson’s passionate, if sometimes law-bending direction. He even guided mountain tours and hunting parties for his guests well into the 1940s.
The Lodge continued to welcome guests until 2020 when it shut down due to the pandemic. Today, a group of new owners have come together to refurbish the recognizable structure, with attention to modern sustainability practises and deep respect for the history of the land itself.
Photo courtesy of the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, v469_i_na_1002
Photo courtesy of the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, v577_5_63_na66_265
When you stay here, you become family.
The best in Canadian hospitality.
A stay at The Lodge is a special, personalised experience. Our team is honoured to host you, and we’re happy to do whatever we can to ensure you have a memorable experience.
The Lodge at Bow Lake is a proud recipient of a 2025 MICHELIN Guide Key, awarded to properties around the world who provide a very special stay for guests.
Join the team
Working at The Lodge means becoming a part of our family. The unforgettable experiences aren’t just for the guests; bring your skills to life in a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere.