Johnston Canyon Hike

Trailhead: Park in the Johnston Canyon parking lot located on the Bow Valley Parkway 26kms West of Banff. Banff National Park.

Description: Due to uncontrollable crowding, access is now by shuttle bus only. This scenic hike or walk is possibly the most crowded trail in Banff National Park. Expect to share the trail with hordes of people during both the summer and winter months.

The lower falls are an easy 1.1km walk, the second set of falls are located 2.7kms. Views of the canyon and Johnston Creek are beautiful. Interesting steel catwalks with railings have been constructed and attached to the canyon walls. Both waterfalls offer well placed lookouts for observing, unfortunately they’re to crowded to enjoy them.

Johnston creek runs crystal clear. Pools below the falls and in the canyon itself are mesmerizing. If you have more energy you can keep hiking past the upper falls to the Inkpots. Total distance one way to the pots is 5.8kms. There you’ll find 5 underground springs located in a beautiful Meadow. The Inkpots are deep blue in color and worth the extra time and effort.

This area is less crowded as most people turn around at the second set of falls. The pictures below were taken in early March. I can’t seem to get into this area during the summer due to the crowds. This Is Bear Country.

Bow Valley Parkway Map PDF