Into the Green Heart of the Rockies: Hiking to the Ink Pots
A short, gentle hike to luminous springs under the Sawback Range — quiet, colorful, and surprisingly wild.
You reach the meadow in the late morning light and the forest opens like a curtain. The trail exhales, giving up a wide patchwork of willow and sedge, and a cluster of small, startlingly blue pools sit like spilled ink amid the grass. The Ink Pots—five cold, mineral-rich springs in Banff National Park—are less a dramatic summit than a quiet reveal: a place where groundwater and limestone meet to paint the prairie in jewel tones and the mountains lean in to listen.
Trail Wisdom
Start early or go late
The Johnston Canyon approach sees the heaviest traffic mid-day—early mornings or late afternoons give you more solitude at the Ink Pots.
Carry bear spray and know how to use it
This valley is wildlife country; keep spray accessible and store food securely to avoid attracting animals.
Layer for changing conditions
Weather swings quickly; pack a windproof shell and warm mid-layer even on sunny days.
Protect the fen
Stay on boardwalks and trails—trampling the wetland damages plant communities that take decades to recover.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Upper-quiet ridge just above the meadow for panoramic views of the Sawback Range
- •Small side-channel pools upstream that fill with glacier-fed water in early summer
Wildlife
elk, marmot
Conservation Note
The Ink Pots’ fen is ecologically sensitive—stay on boardwalks, pack out waste, and follow Parks Canada guidelines to protect the wetland habitat.
The area is on traditional Stoney Nakoda territory and later became part of Banff National Park as the Canadian railway and tourism infrastructure expanded in the early 20th century.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: waterfall runoff, wildflower emergence
Challenges: muddy trails, late snow patches
Spring brings loud cascades and fresh green, but expect slick, muddy sections and possible snow at higher spots—waterproof boots are essential.
summer
Best for: stable trails, peak wildflowers
Challenges: crowds, thunderstorms
Summer offers the most reliable access and vibrant meadows; start early to beat crowds and afternoon storms.
fall
Best for: autumn colors, clear light for photography
Challenges: shorter daylight, cold mornings
Fall delivers golden willows and crisp air—bring warm layers and plan around shorter daylight hours.
winter
Best for: snowy landscape, quiet solitude
Challenges: deep snow, icy sections
Winter transforms the trail into a quiet, snowy corridor; microspikes or light crampons and winter clothing are required for safety.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Grip and ankle support for muddy or uneven trail sections.
Bear sprayEssential
Essential safety item for encounters with bears or large wildlife in Banff National Park.
Microspikes or light crampons
Provide traction on icy approaches in late fall through spring and winter months.
Water filter or purification tabletsEssential
Useful for topping up from creeks; the Ink Pots themselves are mineral-rich and not ideal drinking sources without treatment.
Common Questions
How far is the hike to the Ink Pots?
From the Johnston Canyon trailhead it’s roughly 10–11 km round-trip, with about 250–350 m of elevation gain depending on route variations.
Are the Ink Pots accessible year-round?
Yes, but conditions vary: summer trails are generally clear; winter routes can have deep snow and ice, requiring traction devices and winter skills.
Can I drink the water from the Ink Pots?
No—these springs carry dissolved minerals; always treat water from natural sources with a filter or purification method before drinking.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Banff National Park rules generally restrict dogs on trails and require them to be on a leash in many areas—check current park regulations before bringing a pet.
Is there cell service at the Ink Pots?
Cell coverage is intermittent in the canyon and at the Ink Pots—carry a paper map and let someone know your itinerary for safety.
Do I need a park pass?
Yes—visitors to Banff National Park require a Parks Canada pass for vehicle entry; obtain one in advance or at park gates.
What to Pack
Bear spray, waterproof boots, layered clothing, water filtration—safety and comfort for changing trail and weather conditions.
Did You Know
The turquoise color of many Ink Pots pools comes from dissolved limestone and suspended fine particles that refract sunlight—a common feature in karst-fed springs.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early to secure parking; carry a Parks Canada pass; bring insect repellant in summer; plan turnaround before dusk.
Local Flavor
Banff’s visitor culture blends mountain-lodge hospitality with a strong conservation ethic—sample locally roasted coffee in Banff town and seek out interpretive talks from Parks Canada to deepen your understanding of the landscape.
Logistics Snapshot
Trailhead: Johnston Canyon; Distance: ~10–11 km RT; Elevation gain: ~250–350 m; Time: 3–4 hours; Park pass required; bring bear spray.
Sustainability Note
Stick to trails and boardwalks to protect fragile fen ecosystems; avoid trampling vegetation and follow pack-in/pack-out practices to keep the Ink Pots pristine.