In a tragic incident at Bow Glacier Falls in Banff National Park, authorities have reported that one person was killed and three others sustained injuries due to a rockfall. The incident unfolded early in the afternoon on a remote hiking trail located north of Lake Louise, prompting an immediate search to ensure no other hikers were missing in the vicinity.
Emergency responders confirmed that one deceased individual was located, but details regarding the injuries of the three survivors remain unclear. Of the injured, two were transported to a hospital in Calgary via STARS air ambulance, while the third was taken by ground ambulance.
The Bow Glacier Falls hiking trail is a popular nine-kilometre route that runs along the scenic edges of Bow Lake and is open year-round. This area is situated approximately 200 kilometers northwest of Calgary, making it a favored destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Witnessing the calamitous rockfall was Niclas Brundell, a resident of Canmore, who hurriedly ran to safety along with his wife. Speaking to CBC, Brundell recounted that they had just begun their hike right after lunch when they were alerted by rumblings and the sound of small rocks falling from the mountainsides. Concerned hikers delayed their departure while capturing photos, which they later interpreted as a subtle warning and chose to distance themselves from the mountains. However, without warning, a louder rumble signaled the imminent danger, as a significant section of the mountain broke loose, creating a sight Brundell described as unprecedented.
Brundell observed a minimum of 20 people in the area affected by the rockfall. The event generated an immense dust cloud that obscured the view of the individuals situated below the collapse. He vividly recalls the panic of the moment: "The scariest part was that whole group underneath the waterfall just kind of disappeared into that cloud formation,” he said. His urgent shouts to his wife to run were prompted by a desperate will to escape the peril.
Visible evidence of the rockfall remained apparent from across Bow Lake, with the mountain's surface near the waterfall darkened and uneven, while a large patch of debris starkly contrasted with its surroundings. Helicopters were observed flying low over the area, conducting multiple reconnaissance flights between the site of the rockfall and the nearby Lodge at Bow Lake.
In response to the situation, the parking area leading to the lodge was closed to both the public and media, and multiple ambulances were stationed in close proximity to the hotel. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed her sorrow through social media, stating, "We are thinking of all those involved and wishing for their safety as we await further details.” She extended her gratitude to the quick response from emergency crews, including search and rescue teams and STARS air ambulance.
Federal Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski also took to social media to offer her condolences, expressing, "My heart is with everyone affected by the rock slide near Bow Glacier Falls in Banff.” She acknowledged the efforts of Parks Canada, STARS air ambulance, and all first responders engaged in the emergency response.
