Discover the frozen beauty of Grotto Canyon!
The Grotto Canyon Icewalk is a hike on a frozen creek bed through a narrow canyon, past unusual rock formations and spectacular icefalls with an expert guide leading the way.
These frozen waterfalls are formed when the water from the creek that runs through the canyon freezes over and creates a spectacular display of ice sculptures. The icefalls vary in shape and size with some reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet). You may even get a chance to see ice climbers scaling the Grotto Canyon icefalls!
Along the way, your guide will point out the stunted pine forest and hidden ancient native pictographs, which were likely created by Hopi visitors from the Arizona region. The symbols have many meanings and origins, and you will learn more about First Nations history in the Bow Valley.
The Grotto Canyon Icewalk trail is located just outside of the town of Canmore. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The canyon itself is narrow, deep, well-maintained, and is home to a variety of wildlife.
This Icewalk is considered easy to moderate, with a few small inclines. Using special hiking crampons and hiking poles for extra stability, you’ll walk directly on the icy surface of the creek bed floor.
Highlights:
- Experience the spectacular, natural phenomenon of the Grotto Canyon Icefalls.
- See a stunted forest and learn why are the trees so oddly shaped and small.
- You’ll walk on the Grotto Canyon's frozen creek bed that winds through the narrow gorge.
- See ancient pictographs,1500-year-old clues linking native culture in Canada to distant areas further south.
- Get close to icefalls made from water trickling from the cliff faces.
- Small group size (up to 12 guests per guide).
Duration:
What’s included:
- 2 - 2.5 hour walk on a frozen creek bed through Grotto Canyon
- Professional certified guide
- Use of hiking poles and ice cleats
- Hot chocolate and maple cookie snack
- Hotel drop off and pick-up in Banff and Canmore
- Walking distance: 4.2 km (2.6 miles)
When:
- December – April with tours daily 8:30am *
*Subject to availability.
Need to know:
- Grotto Canyon is approximately 30 minutes drive from Banff and 10 minutes from Canmore.
- Minimum age for participation is 8 years.
- Children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by someone 18 years and older.
- All adults must sign a waiver prior to the tour. A waiver must also be completed by the parent or guardian of any child under the age of 18.
- Please be prepared for mountain weather and dress in full ski wear including snow pants, a winter jacket, thermals, a sweater, winter boots, gloves, and a hat.
- Maximum group size is 12 people.
Whether you are looking for a unique experience gift idea or fun things to do in Banff in winter, the Grotto Canyon Icewalk is the way to go.
The Grotto Canyon Icewalk takes place at Banff, Alberta. VIEW MAP
How To Book Your Experience
