Johnston Canyon is a popular destination in Banff, thanks to its rugged beauty and easy access. Johnston Creek runs through the canyon and has waterfalls and blue pools. Walk beneath overhanging rock faces and lean out over the roaring water as you walk along a steel walkway built onto the side of the sheer canyon walls.
The 1.7-mile (2.7 kilometer) trail runs from a resort and camping ground at the start of the canyon, about 15 miles (25 kilometers) from Banff. The main attractions on the walk are two large waterfalls: the Lower Falls and the Upper Falls, but there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. .
The Lower Falls are about 0.7 miles (1.1 kilometers) from the car park. Stand on the bridge crossing the creek for the best vantage point. A tunnel through the canyon rock will get you closer to the waterfall, but be prepared to get wet. Some visitors choose to turn back after the first falls.
The Upper Falls are another mile (1.6 kilometers) further up the trail. The 100-foot (30-meter) waterfall is well worth the trek if time permits. There are two different vantage points: one from a platform at the bottom of the falls, and another overlooking the top. Water roars over the falls in summer. In winter, the frozen falls are just as spectacular, although the path is icy and can be dangerous.
Summer is the busiest time to visit. Come in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. The return trip to the Upper Falls is close to two hours, so leave plenty of time to do the walk before nightfall.
Adventurous hikers can continue past the Upper Falls to the Ink Pots. These small, cold mineral springs are set in open meadows surrounded by mountains, located another 1.9 miles (3 kilometers) from the Upper Falls.
Johnston Canyon is about a 30-minute drive northwest of the town of Banff along the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A). There is no fee to access the canyon and there is free parking at the trail head, although a space can be hard to find as this is one of the most popular hiking spots around Banff.
Johnston Canyon
Travel Guide
Johnston Canyon Travel Guide Video
Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows
Hwy 1A, Box 875, 25km west of Banff, Johnston Canyon, AB
The price is ¥30,249 per night from May 29 to May 30
¥30,249
per night
May 29 - May 30
Stay at this resort in Johnston Canyon. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (153 reviews)
"Excellent rustic experience. We received a complimentary upgrade to a bungalow and it was such a pleasant surprise. This property is nearly 90 years old and super well maintained and comfortable. We had a wood burning fireplace in the living room which was separate from the bedroom. Overall, it was ..."
Reviewed on Oct 15, 2023
Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa
521 Banff Ave, Box 1070, Banff, AB
The price is ¥40,177 per night from Jun 2 to Jun 3
¥40,177
per night
Jun 2 - Jun 3
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,480 reviews)
"Property is clean and nice, price is right. It’s a 10 min walk from downtown so not bad, lots of restaurants in the area. Rooms are a bit too small, we got the 2 queen bed for my 3 kids and me and felt there was not enough space. They don’t really have a pool, it’s a big hot tub but my kids like ..."
Reviewed on May 25, 2024
Banff Rocky Mountain Resort
1029 Banff Ave, Banff, AB
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ¥36,723 per night from May 31 to Jun 1
¥36,723
per night
May 31 - Jun 1
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 spa tubs. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,844 reviews)
"Resort style property, quiet area but not near the heart of Banff. Good pool and hot tub area, but older. Rooms have been updated, comfy beds, newer bathrooms. Good price and located very close to hwy 1 for all your siteseeing adventures."
Reviewed on May 25, 2024
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Douglas Fir Resort and Chalets
525 Tunnel Mountain Road, Banff, AB
Stay at this 3-star ski condo in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 spa tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,781 reviews)
"Well treated."
Reviewed on May 25, 2024
Hidden Ridge Resort
901 Hidden Ridge Way, Banff, AB
Stay at this aparthotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 spa tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (3,786 reviews)
"What an excellent experience! The staff is beyond 10/10. You’re up close and personal with nature. Stunning views. Great accommodations. We will certainly be back!"
Reviewed on May 25, 2024
Basecamp Suites Banff
101, 316 Marten St, Banff, AB
Stay at this aparthotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 spa tubs, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (189 reviews)
"Great place"
Reviewed on May 27, 2024
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Popular places to visit
Johnston Canyon
3.5/5(3 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Johnston Canyon during your travels in Johnston Canyon. Discover the area's waterfalls and mountain views.
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