Banff Wildlife and Johnston Canyon Hiking Tour: Bow Valley Parkway Day Trip
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Appropriate for most people who can handle a few hours of walking with short elevation gain; some stairs required.
Overview
Drive the Bow Valley Parkway, watch for elk and bears, then walk the limestone-sided gorge of Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls. This guided day trip blends wildlife viewing, easy hiking (about 3.4 km round-trip), and local context for a practical, memorable Rockies experience.
Banff Wildlife and Johnston Canyon Hiking Tour: Bow Valley Parkway Day Trip
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The morning air along the Bow Valley Parkway feels like a held breath—cool, pungent with pine, and threaded with distant thunder of water. Small groups step out of an air-conditioned van and slide into the rhythm of a guided day: a slow drive that stretches into wildlife watches and a two-hour hike through the limestone ribs of Johnston Canyon.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring traction in winter
Crampons are provided on request, but bring winter boots—icy stairs and frozen spray make traction essential.
Binoculars for wildlife
A compact pair of binoculars will dramatically improve viewing from roadside pullouts where animals keep their distance.
Mind the timing
Early morning and late afternoon are best for wildlife; mid-day can be busy at popular viewpoints and on the canyon trail.
Respect wildlife distances
Always follow your guide’s instructions; approaching animals is unsafe and harms their natural behavior.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Black bear
History
The Bow Valley was a travel corridor for Indigenous groups long before the railway and park designation; later 19th–20th century development shaped current road and rail routes.
Conservation
Banff National Park prioritizes wildlife corridors and visitor education; follow Leave No Trace, keep distance from animals, and stay on marked trails to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Banff
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides grip on wet boardwalks, rocky surfaces, and icy sections in winter.
Layered clothing
Quick layers and a wind/rain shell help you adapt to mountain microclimates.
Daypack with water and snacks
Keeps essentials accessible during the 1.5–2 hour canyon hike and roadside stops.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Improves wildlife viewing from safe distances along the Bow Valley Parkway.