Morant’s Curve in Banff National Park
Probably the most photographed stretch of Canadian Pacific rail line on the continent, Morant’s Curve provides the opportunity to capture photos of trains winding their way through the Bow River valley against an iconic backdrop of the rocky mountains.
Named after Canadian photographer Nicolas Morant, who worked as a photographer for the Canadian Pacific, the location was reportedly one of his favourite shooting locations. Morant’s Curve is a signed and easily accessed viewpoint in Banff National Park, along the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A).
If you want a shot with a train then patience is required as there is no published train schedule; however, in the summer months one could probably deduce the timing of Rocky Mountaineer passenger trains based on their arrival/departure from Banff. The passenger trains, however, don’t provide the same vibrant colours of the red CP locomotives.
East-bound freight trains in the morning winter light provide great photo opportunities. West-bound trains are less interesting, but can provide the opportunity to capture some motion blur shots. We tend to avoid the Banff crowds in the summer months so I only have winter photos.
It can be a popular spot for photographers and it isn’t unusual to see several photographers set up waiting for a train. We have always been quite lucky and have never waited long, but I’ve spoken to folks who have waited hours for a train. Passing the time chatting to like-minded individuals isn’t a bad thing.
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