Bow Lake and the surrounding Canadian Rockies were home to the legendary mountain guide, Jimmy Simpson. It was here in the 1930’s that Jimmy Simpson built the first part of Num-Ti-Jah lodge on the North end of Bow Lake. The original building is known as the “old house” and today is comprised of a small Trading Post Gift Store and Coffee Shop.

Jimmy himself was a famous hunter, trapper and guide in these parts. Fur-trading posts were part of the Canadian legacy here in the Rockies and played a significant role in establishing barter and trade markets and economic relationships between the imperial powers of Europe and its North American colonies. 

Over the years the nature of the business may have changed but the Trading Post stands as a legacy to a bygone era.

Today’s trading post is a timeless treasure chest tastefully decorated and exuding Canadiana at its best.

Jimmy himself had not only a passion for the wilderness, but also had a great love of art and was an avid collector.

The Trading Post at Num-Ti-Jah Lodge features a myriad of items and gifts reflecting this passion, ranging from nature and outdoor items, clothing and apparel, Canadian heritage, culture and art and prides itself on providing a range of unique gifts that you are not likely to find in just any souvenir shop.

With over 3000 trinkets, souvenirs, handcrafted Canadian Products, native work and art, you are bound to leave with something special to remember your time at the lodge and Bow Lake.

The Lodge and Trading Post is a wonderful building and a true reminder of what one man's dreams can achieve. 

Jimmy Simpson's first guests at Bow Lake traveled in by horseback. They came to experience a part of the world that few had seen. Hospitality was a tent for sleeping in, wool blankets for warmth, and meals cooked on an open fire.

In today's modern world, there are still only a few basics that we all need at the end of the day: shelter for the night, a hearty meal, and a warm bed. At Num-Ti-Jah Lodge we truly believe in that disappearing virtue - the simple life. We have 16 rustic Mountain View and Lake View rooms to stretch out in, hot showers any time, thick duvets to crawl under, and no televisions or telephones in the room to interrupt your thoughts or peace of mind. 

Our Lake View rooms face the turquoise waters of Bow Lake, where the overhanging ice of Crowfoot and Bow Glaciers hint at the magnitude of the Wapta Icefield which lays behind the peaks of Crowfoot and Thompson. Bow Glacier falls, the birthplace of the Bow River, brings crisp clean water into the lake. The glacial silt carved by the Bow Glacier gives the water its famous bright-blueish hue. 

Should you desire a little something special, it would be our pleasure to have some sparkling wine and seasonal treats prepared for you and awaiting at check-in. Ask for our Romance on Arrival package. Reservations are recommended for dinner, so please let us know if you have a special occasion we that we might assist you in celebrating!

If you are looking for rest and relaxation, and a digital detox of sorts, look no further. We look forward to having you as our guest!