Johnston Canyon, located along the Bow Valley Parkway in Alberta, Canada, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. This picturesque canyon offers a unique blend of natural beauty, well-maintained trails, and serene surroundings, making it an ideal spot for hiking, photography, and relaxation.
The canyon is particularly famous for its frozen waterfalls during the winter months. The lower and upper falls transform into stunning icy formations, with turquoise pools beneath them creating a magical landscape. The trails are easy to navigate, even in snowy conditions, and provide breathtaking views of the frozen creeks and towering canyon walls.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful hike to the lower falls, which takes about an hour round trip, or venture further to the upper falls, located approximately 2.5 kilometers from the trailhead. The trails are suitable for all skill levels, and the winter season offers a less crowded experience, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of the canyon.
Johnston Canyon is also a popular spot for ice climbing, adding an extra element of excitement for those seeking adventure. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual visitor, Johnston Canyon promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Canada's natural wonders.
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Onsite services
Picnics
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
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Out-and-back trail
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Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Free parking lot
Dogs allowed
In winter is definitely less crowded here and ample parking spot available. The scenery is not bad either you can see frozen creeks and still the magnificent canyon. We only walk to lower falls, it’s not completely frozen with water still flowing through. Very relax and calm you can enjoy your time here as much as you wish. No need line up for photos. The distance to upper falls is about 2.5km so plan accordingly. To the lower falls and back to parking cost about an hour. Trail is very easy.
Johnston Canyon is a must-see, especially in the winter! The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, even with snow. The frozen waterfalls at both the lower and upper falls are absolutely stunning. The icicles and the turquoise pools beneath the falls create a truly unique and breathtaking landscape. The ice climbers we saw added an extra element of excitement. Our round trip hike took about 3 hours and was well worth it. Dress warmly and wear good hiking boots with traction! I saw about 80% hikers wore cleats on their shoes.
Really fun, beautiful hike! The portion to the falls is easy/moderate and then if you continue to the Inkpots (HIGHLY recommend) then it steps up a bit. Views are gorgeous the entire way.
Went in February when was -10F. Absolutely gorgeous. Fun, safe boardwalk was absolutely no issue with boots. Was mostly packed snow, but I defer to locals if it gets icy at times. Great views, and was cool to see the ice climbers at the second falls!
Johnston Canyon was a beautiful and easy hike! We went in December and did use crampons which helped during some inclines. The views were incredible with the frozen waterfall and icicles on the side. We only went to the lower falls but it was gorgeous and worth it. Arrive early because it does get crowded and there is only a small area through the cave to see the lower falls up close. We were first on the trails and passed a ton of hikers heading in when we were heading back to the car.