Winter hike of Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park

Johnston Canyon is one of Banff National Park’s most beautiful canyons and it offers a hiking experience you cannot miss when visiting Banff!

As beautiful as Johnston Canyon is, with its winding river and rushing waterfalls, it becomes even more enchanting during the winter! Covered in snow and ice, Johnston Canyon transforms into a fairy kingdom that you will get to explore by foot during this guided hiking tour! If you are in Banff during the winter and want to go hiking in a real winter wonderland, this is the activity for you!

The hiking tour starts off by driving down the Bow Valley Parkway, known for its jaw-dropping scenery of towering mountains, lush forest, and local wildlife! The van will make stops along the way at the best viewpoints (and lesser-known to boot) so that you can marvel at the natural beauty and animals that surround you. Once you arrive at Johnston Canyon you will then be led on a guided hike to the spellbinding beauty of Lower Falls. For those who want to continue their explorations, there will be the option to hike onwards to the Upper Falls for an even more arresting view: imagine a frozen cascade descending from high above and dripping with human sized icicles! For those who want to relax while soaking in the canyon atmosphere after the Lower Falls hike, there is also the option to cosy up around a fire with a warm beverage to enjoy the rest of your time in Johnston Canyon.

Ice cleats/crampons and hiking poles will be provided for this hike to keep you from slipping as you discover the magic of hiking Banff during winter. Though the terrain might be more of a challenge to navigate then during the summer months, it is this addition of snow and ice that will make hiking all the more fun as well! Hiking in winter can be even more enjoyable than doing the same activity during warmer months as long as you dress appropriately, have the right gear, and look forward to the otherworldly canyon vistas you will get to experience!

Book your hiking tour of Johnston Canyon now for an unforgettable winter’s adventure in Banff!