A world of frozen waterfalls and pillars of blue ice.
In the winter, Johnson Canyon transforms into a winter wonderland, with frozen waterfalls and ice formations that create a magical atmosphere.
When you arrive at the canyon, your guide will make sure everyone is safe and comfortable, providing ice-cleats that strap on over your winter shoes. This makes walking on the sometimes-icy trail simple as you travel along catwalks built into the limestone walls.
It’s approximately 1.2 km to the Lower Falls and 2.5 km to the Upper Falls, with minimal elevation gain, so it’s great for beginner hikers. The path follows the scenic Johnston Creek, which has carved its way through the limestone rocks over thousands of years, creating a unique and picturesque landscape.
You’ll walk through a natural cave to gaze down at the flowing waters of the frozen falls up close, following your guide to the breathtaking Upper Falls, a sparkling tower of ice that ascends 30 metres above your head. These gigantic pillars of ice are the highlight of the tour. Ice climbers can often be seen scaling the frozen columns.
This tour does not actually walk on the ice (as it is fragile and dangerous). You will be following a trail and steel catwalks that are built into the canyon wall. They allow for spectacular views down the canyon walls to the river and ice below. The steel catwalks vary in height from ground level up to approximately 10m above the canyon.
Throughout the Johnston Canyon Icewalk, your friendly tour guide will share interesting tidbits about the history of Johnston Canyon. You’ll also travel through the prime wildlife habitat and get to explore nature where you may even see deer, elk, or other wildlife.
You’ll also travel along the Bow Valley Parkway to get there, a prime wildlife habitat, and learn how Johnston Canyon was formed.
This tour is recognized as a Canadian Signature Experience – a collection of once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences found only in Canada.
Highlights:
- Travel along the Bow Valley Parkway, a prime wildlife habitat.
- Walk along steel walkways built into Johnston Canyon walls giving an stunning view down the canyon walls to the river and ice formations below.
- Walk through a natural cave feature for a unique view of the Lower Falls.
- See spectacular, gigantic pillars of ice.
Duration:
Walking Distance:
When:
- November – April with tours daily 8:30am / 1:30pm*
*Subject to availability
What’s included:
- Professional certified guide
- Ice cleats that can be attached to your boots
- Hiking poles
- Hot Chocolate and a maple cookie snack
- Hotel pickup and drop off (Banff only)
Need to know:
- Minimum age for this tour is 8 years.
- Degree of difficulty: moderate / intermediate.
- This tour does not walk on the ice. You will be following the steel catwalks that are built into the canyon wall and allow a spectacular view down the canyon walls to the ice and river below.
- Please be prepared for mountain weather and dress in full ski wear including thermals, a sweater, a winter jacket, snow pants, winter boots, a hat, and glove.
- All 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.
- Pick up and drop off can be made from most hotels in Banff.
- Maximum group size: 12 people.
Whether you are looking for a unique experience gift idea or fun things to do in Banff in winter, the Johnston Canyon Icewalk is the way to go.
The Johnston Canyon Icewalk takes place at Banff Alberta. VIEW MAP
How To Book Your Experience
CANADIAN SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE!
The Johnston Canyon Icewalk has been officially designated as part of the Signature Experiences Collection® by the Canadian Tourism Commission. The CTC believes that this esteemed group of selectees exemplify “once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences...and show the world what Canada’s tourism brand is all about”.
