Catwalks and Frozen Curtains: Walking Johnston Canyon in Banff
A short, dramatic gorge with waterfalls, catwalks and winter icewalks—perfect for a half-day mountain fix.
The first time you round the bend and the canyon narrows, Johnston Creek seems to speak. It drops into tight shadow, hissing over banded limestone and polishing the walls into honeycombed scallops. Above you, metal catwalks cling to the rock like rungs on a giant’s ladder, and in winter, curtains of ice hang from ledges—thick, blue, and audacious enough to make a novice climber think twice. This is Johnston Canyon, Banff National Park’s most reliably dramatic short hike: a small corridor of water, stone and human engineering that compresses the high Rockies into a concentrated dose of awe.
Trail Wisdom
Beat the crowds
Arrive before 8 AM in summer or use the seasonal shuttle from Banff to avoid full parking lots and enjoy quieter light for photos.
Traction matters
Microspikes or crampons are essential in winter; the boardwalks and steps glaze with ice and can be dangerously slick.
Park pass required
Carry a valid Parks Canada pass—purchasable online or at park gates—to avoid fines and support conservation.
Respect the catwalks
Stay on designated boardwalks to protect fragile vegetation and prevent trail erosion along the canyon rim.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning light at the Lower Falls catwalk for layered reflections
- •The Ink Pots meadow in late June for alpine wildflowers and calmer views
Wildlife
Elk (Bow Valley corridor), Marmots and ground squirrels in meadows
Conservation Note
Heavy visitation has prompted boardwalks and managed access to protect riparian vegetation and reduce trail erosion—stick to designated trails and pack out waste.
Johnston Canyon sits within Banff National Park, Canada’s first national park (established 1885), and has been shaped by tourism infrastructure and conservation priorities over the past century.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Waterfall viewing, Wildflower blooms near the Ink Pots
Challenges: Late snowmelt, Slushy, slippery boardwalks
Spring brings high water and powerful falls; expect wet, muddy approaches and variable temperatures—microspikes may be needed early season.
summer
Best for: Easy day hikes, Family outings and photography
Challenges: Heavy crowds and full parking, Bug season in meadows
Summer offers warm weather and clear trails—go early to avoid crowds and mid-day heat, and carry water for sunny stretches.
fall
Best for: Crisp light for photos, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Sudden cold snaps, Early ice on boardwalks
Autumn delivers cooler days and dramatic color in surrounding meadows; early frosts can make the canyon slick—pack traction.
winter
Best for: Icewalks and frozen waterfalls, Blue-ice photography
Challenges: Icy conditions, short daylight, Limited services
Winter transforms the canyon into an ice cathedral—microspikes and warm layers are essential; consider a guided ice walk if unfamiliar with winter hazards.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Grippy, supportive footwear helps on wet boardwalks and rocky sections.
Microspikes or cramponsEssential
Essential for safe travel on icy catwalks and stairways during cold months.
Insulated, waterproof jacket
A good shell wards off canyon spray and sudden alpine winds—useful in shoulder seasons.
Daypack with water and snacksEssential
Hydration and quick calories keep energy up for steep sections and extensions to the Ink Pots.
Common Questions
How long is the Johnston Canyon hike to the Upper Falls?
Expect roughly 5–6 km round-trip to the Upper Falls with about 120–180 m of elevation gain; allow 2–4 hours depending on stops and fitness.
Is the trail suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes—the boardwalks and moderate grade make the canyon accessible for families and most beginners, though careful supervision is needed near rails and water.
Do I need a Parks Canada pass?
Yes. A valid Banff National Park pass is required; purchase one online or at park gates/visitor centers.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are allowed but must be on-leash; note that pets are not permitted on some catwalk sections—check current signage.
When is the best time to photograph the canyon?
Early morning avoids crowds and gives soft light in summer; in winter aim for midday for better illumination of the frozen falls.
Is the Ink Pots hike hard?
The Ink Pots extension is a longer subalpine route—roughly 10–12 km round-trip with more sustained climbing—so plan for a full day and variable weather.
What to Pack
Sturdy hiking shoes (traction and support), microspikes in winter (ice safety), layered waterproof jacket (spray and weather), water and snacks (short but active hike).
Did You Know
Banff National Park was established in 1885 as Canada’s first national park, and Johnston Canyon’s catwalks were installed to protect fragile canyon vegetation while allowing visitor access.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early to secure parking; buy a Parks Canada pass before you go; bring traction in winter; combine with a Bow Valley Parkway wildlife drive.
Local Flavor
Base your trip in Banff town for cozy alpine eateries, craft breweries and bakeries; pick up bannock or local smoked trout at markets and watch for elk in the evenings along the Bow Valley corridors.
Logistics Snapshot
Trailhead: Bow Valley Parkway (Johnston Canyon). Round-trip to Upper Falls: ~5–6 km. Park pass required. Peak season: June–Sept—arrive early. Winter: microspikes required; consider guided ice walk.
Sustainability Note
Stay on catwalks and marked trails to prevent soil compaction and vegetation loss; pack out waste, travel with a reusable water bottle, and respect wildlife distances to reduce habituation.