Looking for a fantastic family adventure in Banff National Park? Look no further than Johnston Canyon! We visit every year, and often, multiple times per year. This hike is perfect for families of all ages, whether you have young children or beginners in your group. With its easy trails and breathtaking natural beauty, Johnston Canyon offers an unforgettable experience.
The trails leading to the Johnston Canyon catwalks are well maintained and relatively flat, making the 2 km trek pleasant for all members of your group. With three incredible catwalks, each offering views of cascading waterfalls and the canyon walls looming above, there is no shortage of photo ops along the way.
The Lower Falls and Upper Falls catwalks will bring you even closer to the waterfalls, where you can take a break and appreciate the beauty of nature. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours connecting with your family and soaking in the stunning landscape.
Once you reach the amazing catwalks, you’ll be amazed at how well maintained they are.
They definitely provide a safe and secure passage to the falls. The Upper Falls catwalk is a particularly memorable experience, as it brings you right to the brink of the thundering falls. The Upper Falls afford you an unparalleled view of the rushing water and the canyon walls.
And, once you’ve reached the end of the catwalk, the only thing that will separate you from the roaring falls is a thin metal railing! For an even more active experience, you can continue your journey up the winding trail to the Stoic Viewpoint. This offers an incredible panoramic view of the entire canyon.
Exploring Johnston Canyon is an excellent way to create a lasting memory with your family and to appreciate the spectacular beauty of nature.
Imagine strolling through a deep mountain canyon, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and towering cliffs. You’ll be amazed as you make your way to the Lower Canyon Falls and continue on to the Upper Canyon Falls. From here you can admire the stunning views from catwalks and a waterfall lookout.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not continue your journey to the Ink Pots? These vibrant mineral springs in the alpine meadow are a sight to behold. Be sure to take your camera with you. You’ll want to capture this stunning natural landscape and the brilliant blues and greens of the mineral-rich pools.
Known to some as the “jewels of the Rockies”, the Ink Pots are a must-see destination for any outdoor enthusiast.
Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch – after an invigorating hike through the wildflower-filled meadows, you’ll be ready for a bite to eat! Enjoying a meal surrounded by such natural beauty is an experience you won’t soon forget.
So pack your bags, grab your loved ones, and get ready for a day filled with laughter, exploration, and unforgettable memories at Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park! Of course, we always stop at the ice cream shack for a cool treat at the end of our journey. You can check out the slideshow below with photos from our most recent hike.
After our many visits to Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park, here are ten things we have learned to remember for our hikes there:
- Start your hike from the Johnston Canyon upper parking lot. There is a trail suitable for all skill levels, and the scenic views are surely worth the journey.
- Make sure to wear layers as the temperature can vary drastically from the top of the canyon to the bottom.
- As Johnston Creek and waterfalls are the primary attractions, be prepared to get wet with appropriate footwear.
- Don’t forget to bring a camera or binoculars to capture the wildlife and stunning landscapes.
- Plan to spend at least two hours on the hike as there are several scenic stops along the way.
- Bring a flashlight as the lower canyon path can get quite dark.
- Make sure you are adequately hydrated and have some snacks available, especially in warmer weather.
- Be aware of other hikers, as the trail can become congested and some sections are quite narrow.
- Bring a first-aid kit and know the area for the nearest medical facility.
- Finally, take the time to experience the surroundings and enjoy nature’s beauty!
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