Nestled on the outskirts of Banff Town, Bow Falls is one of the most iconic and accessible landmarks in Banff National Park. As the lifeblood of the park, the Bow River carries a name steeped in history: it refers both to the river’s graceful, sweeping curves and the Douglas Fir trees along its banks, which were once prized by Indigenous peoples for crafting powerful hunting bows. While the falls are modest in height, they are renowned for their wide, thundering cascades and the brilliant turquoise water that churns into a frothy white. The site gained international fame in the 1950s as a key filming location for the classic film "River of No Return," starring the legendary Marilyn Monroe. Today, Bow Falls remains a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of rugged Rocky Mountain power and the timeless glamour of Hollywood's Golden Age.