Johnston Canyon Evening Icewalk: Guided Night Hike to Frozen Waterfalls in Banff
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for anyone who can walk 1–1.5 hours on uneven ground; minimal cardio required, but comfortable mobility and cold tolerance are necessary.
Overview
Trade the daytime crowds for a small-group, headlamp-led trek through Johnston Canyon at night. This guided icewalk brings you to glittering frozen falls, hot chocolate at the turnaround, and the rare hush of a canyon under the stars.
Johnston Canyon Evening Icewalk: Guided Night Hike to Frozen Waterfalls in Banff
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The trail begins as a ribbon of light threading through spruce and lodgepole pine. Under your new headlamp the limestone walls gleam, and the usual daytime crowd is replaced by a hush: only the canyon’s breath and the soft grind of ice under cleats. Guides stop periodically to kill the lights, and darkness opens a different set of senses—water becomes sound, cold becomes texture, the air smells of cold resin and river spray.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Wear rigid-soled winter boots
Sturdy boots compatible with ice cleats are required; soft-soled fashion boots (Uggs) or sandals won’t be allowed.
Layer for extreme cold
Bring thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell—wind chill can make temps drop precipitously.
Keep the headlamp straps snug
Your headlamp is yours to keep—secure it and test beam angle before the guide turns off the lights.
Arrive at pickup five minutes early
Each pickup point has a specific time; being punctual avoids delays and helps the small-group schedule stay on track.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Mule deer (and occasional coyotes along the valley)
History
Johnston Canyon was carved from ancient marine limestone; early 20th-century road and rail development opened the area to recreation, and trail infrastructure evolved to protect fragile canyon walls.
Conservation
Stay on the catwalk and follow guide instructions to prevent erosion and protect winter-sensitive plants; the operator limits group sizes to reduce impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Banff
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Insulated winter boots
Rigid soles and ankle support keep you safe on icy catwalks and in cold conditions.
winter specific
Thermal base layers
Trap warmth close to your body without bulk so you stay comfortable during pauses in the canyon.
winter specific
Disposable or warm gloves with liners
Glove liners let you handle camera gear and snack items without exposing skin to freezing air.
winter specific
Compact tripod or phone stabilizer
For long exposures of illuminated ice and the Lower Falls when light levels are low.
winter specific