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





Visit Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows
Hwy 1A, Box 875, 25km west of Banff, Johnston Canyon, AB
The price is ¥45,661 per night from Sep 5 to Sep 6
¥45,661
¥51,262 total
Sep 5 - Sep 6
includes taxes & fees
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 ...
9/10 Wonderful! (466 reviews)
"Absolutely loved my stay at Johnston Canyon."
Reviewed on Aug 15, 2025

Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa
521 Banff Ave, Box 1070, Banff, AB
The price is ¥55,280 per night from Aug 28 to Aug 29
¥55,280
¥61,461 total
Aug 28 - Aug 29
includes taxes & fees
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 ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,769 reviews)
"Excellent service with front desk"
Reviewed on Aug 17, 2025

Otter Hotel
1000 600 Banff Ave, Banff, AB
The price is ¥87,234 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
¥87,234
¥96,987 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star hotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 hot tubs. Popular attractions Fairmont Banff Springs Bowling Centre and Upper Hot Springs ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (677 reviews)
"Great hotel. love the outdoor hot tub looking at the mountains. friendly staff."
Reviewed on Aug 16, 2025
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.

Hidden Ridge Resort
901 Hidden Ridge Way, Banff, AB
Stay at this aparthotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (4,545 reviews)
"All good as usual"
Reviewed on Aug 14, 2025

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 hot tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking in our ...
8/10 Very Good! (3,687 reviews)
"Location and water park are awesome"
Reviewed on Aug 17, 2025

Basecamp Suites Banff
101, 316 Marten St, Banff, AB
Stay at this aparthotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 hot tubs, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking in our ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (360 reviews)
"Place is clean and convenient."
Reviewed on Aug 17, 2025
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
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.
Things to do

Private Full Day Guided Tour at Banff Iconic Attraction
¥172,339
per traveler

Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus
¥14,550
per adult
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