The Bow River runs clear and cold from the Rocky Mountains through Banff and Calgary before joining the Oldman River to form the South Saskatchewan. In Calgary, it’s the heart of the city’s park and trail system, lined with forest, wetlands, and wide gravel paths that attract hikers year-round. The river’s turquoise colour comes from glacial meltwater, and its steady current creates a constant backdrop of movement and sound. Whether viewed from bridges, riverbanks, or high escarpments, the Bow remains one of Alberta’s most defining natural landmarks.