Johnston Canyon

The Basics

Coach tours from Banff and Calgary typically stop at Johnston Canyon and other beauty spots in the Canadian Rockies, such as Moraine Lake, Victoria Glacier, and Takakkaw Falls. While many travelers hike the trail independently in summer, in winter it’s better to go as part of a guided tour, as you’ll need special equipment to navigate the trail safely. Many multi-day excursions exploring Banff, Jasper, and Yoho national parks also visit the canyon.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The trail to Lower Falls is wide, paved, relatively easy, and accessible to wheelchairs.

• There are two viewing platforms at Upper Falls: one overlooking the bottom of the falls, and one at the top of the gorge looking out across the top of the falls.

• You’ll find restrooms at the parking lot, and a gift shop and restaurant in Johnston Canyon Resort (summer only).

How to Get There

Johnston Canyon is about a 30-minute drive from Banff along the Bow Valley Parkway. Buses run a seasonal route between Banff and Johnston Canyon. The trail starts behind Johnston Canyon Lodge.

When to Get There

The Johnston Canyon trail is one of the busiest in Banff. If you’re going in summer, prepare for crowds—the trail usually has fewer hikers before 9am and just before sunset. For a more serene experience, opt for a nighttime winter tour, when the frozen canyon is silent except for the sound of your footsteps on the snow.

Hiking at Johnston Canyon

Choose from several Johnston Canyon hikes. A round-trip walk to Lower Falls is about a mile (1.6 kilometers), with an elevation gain of around 164 feet (50 meters). The round-trip trek to Upper Falls is about 3 miles (5 kilometers)—the path gets steeper after Lower Falls. More experienced hikers might continue another 2 miles (3 kilometers) to the Ink Pots, shallow mineral springs bubbling to the surface in a high mountain meadow.

How long of a hike is Johnston Canyon?

The Johnston Canyon hike in Banff National Park is just about 3.7 miles (about 6 kilometers) and generally takes around 2–3 hours. It’s pretty easy, with elevation going up as you get into the canyon. It’s a popular trek, so you’ll see other hikers or birdwatchers along the way.

Do I need a pass to go to Johnston Canyon?

Yes, you do need a pass to go to Johnston Canyon since it’s in Banff National Park. You can easily buy a day pass at the park gates. Each person, not each group, needs a pass, so keep that in mind. Annual passes are available to purchase, too.

Is it easy to park at Johnston Canyon?

No, it isn’t easy to park at Johnston Canyon. There aren’t many spots, but they are free if you find one. A better option is to use Rome Transit Route 9. It runs every day in the summer but only on weekends and certain days in the winter.

When is the best time of year to visit Johnston Canyon?

Johnston Canyon is accessible all year round, and each season holds something special. However, winter is a magical time in the canyon since the waterfalls freeze and it’s covered in snow. Just wear proper clothes and shoes/ice cleats in case it is slippery and icy underfoot.

Is Johnston Canyon good for families?

Yes, Johnston Canyon is good for families, but wear the right gear. In the spring, it can be slippery, and in the winter months, there is ice. If you go then, bring ice cleats. The trail itself isn’t too tricky, so it's good for all ages and levels of walkers.

Is Johnston Canyon worth it?

Yes, Johnston Canyon is worth it. It’s in Banff National Park, which is gorgeous to begin with. This hike is popular because it isn’t too difficult and good for all ages. If you do go, try to go early or on a weekday to avoid some of the crowds.

Ways to explore

Conveniently located between the town of Banff and Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon is a fixture of many guided tours from Banff, Canmore, and Calgary. These tours also stop at other beauty spots in the Canadian Rockies, such as Moraine Lake, Victoria Glacier, and Takakkaw Falls. While many travelers hike the trail independently in the summer, it’s better to go as part of a guided tour if you’re visiting during winter months, as you’ll need special equipment to navigate the trail safely. Many multi-day excursions exploring Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Parks also visit the canyon.

Accessibility

The paths to the Lower Falls are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, although travelers with accessibility needs or young kids may not be able to proceed further up the trail. The trail does get very crowded, which can hinder accessibility.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Drinking water, snacks, bug repellent

What to wear

Hiking shoes, season-appropriate jacket and layers

Not allowed

Feeding wildlife. Going off-trail is also frequently prohibited to protect the wildlife, so adhere to any signs posted.

Amenities

Restrooms and picnic tables at the trailhead

Address 

Johnston Canyon is about 15 miles (25 kilometers) north-west of Banff town. The trail starts behind Johnston Canyon Lodge. You can get there in a private vehicle, using seasonal public transportation, or on a tour.

Driving

Johnston Canyon is about a 30-minute drive from Banff. Instead of taking Route 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) that follows the southern bank of the Bow River, stay on the northern side of the river and follow the Bow Valley Parkway.

Public transportation

Catch a bus from the Banff High School Transit Hub to Johnston Canyon. This operates on a seasonal schedule; in winter, it runs on weekends and public holidays only.

Best times to visit

The popular trail usually has fewer hikers before 9am and just before sunset. It’s worth getting up early to bag a parking spot and beat the crowds.

Best days to visit

The trail is particularly busy on weekends, so visit mid-week if you can.

Best months to visit

The Johnston Canyon trail is one of the busiest in Banff. If you’re going in July or August, prepare for crowds. The trail is much less crowded in winter, but you’ll need to be prepared for ice and snow.

Special events

Guided evening icewalks are often held in winter, providing an alternative view of this beautiful destination.