If you’re looking for an easy yet rewarding hike in Banff, Johnston Canyon should be on your list. It’s one of the most popular spots in the national park, known for its dramatic cliffs, rushing water, and two stunning waterfalls.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just in it for the views, the trails here are doable for most fitness levels.
How to Get to Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is located along the Bow Valley Parkway, about a 30-minute drive from the Banff townsite. If you’ve got your own car, it’s an easy and scenic drive with parking available near the trailhead. During busier seasons, make sure to get there early to secure a spot as this place gets popular quickly, especially in the summer and early fall.
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| scenic view along the trail |
Since I was traveling solo and didn’t have a car, I joined a guided day tour that included Johnston Canyon as one of the stops. It was actually part of the popular lakes tour, which also covered Lake Louise, Lake Minnewanka, and Vermillion Lakes. It was a convenient way to explore multiple highlights in Banff without having to worry about logistics.
What to Expect at Johnston Canyon
The hike at Johnston Canyon is optional, so you can choose to hang back and enjoy the scenery near the entrance if hiking isn’t your thing. But if you do plan to hike and you're with a tour group, be mindful of the time and try to finish in under two hours to keep the schedule running smoothly. It’s also a good idea to communicate with your guide beforehand so they know what to expect. This way, you won’t hold up other guests who might decide to skip the hike.
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| a flat section of the trail |
There are two main points on the trail: Lower Falls and Upper Falls. The Lower Falls is about 1.2 km one way, and it takes around 30 minutes to reach at a relaxed pace. It’s a gentle, well-maintained path that winds through the canyon along a series of catwalks and bridges. You’ll get up-close views of the narrow canyon walls and hear the sound of rushing water almost the entire way.
If you’re up for a bit more of a challenge, you can continue on to the Upper Falls. It’s a 2.4 km one-way hike from the trailhead, so double that for the full round trip. This section has a bit more elevation and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours in total, depending on your pace. I went all the way to the Upper Falls since I consider myself an intermediate hiker, and I found it completely worth it.
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| trail to the Upper Falls |
Needless to say, the views are amazing. You’ll find a viewing platform that gives you a great look at the waterfall pouring down from the cliffside, especially beautiful with a bit of snow or ice around it in the cooler months. There’s also a second viewing point above the falls that’s a bit more off the beaten path, but I skipped that one to make sure I got back in time for the tour.
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| the Upper Falls |
Other Things to Do at Johnston Canyon
If hiking’s not your thing or you just want a more relaxed visit, there are still a few ways to enjoy Johnston Canyon, especially if you’re visiting as part of a group tour and don’t have much time or energy to wander.
You can take a short walk to the bridge near the entrance, where you’ll get a lovely view of the creek and a photo-worthy backdrop without committing to a full hike. The rushing water, steep canyon walls, and surrounding forest make it a great spot to snap a few photos or simply take in the scenery at a slower pace.
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| view of the creek near the parking lot |
Since group tours often have a tight schedule, the lodge near the entrance is a perfect spot to relax. It has a cozy café and a sit-down bistro, so you can either grab a coffee and pastry or enjoy a full meal. The outdoor patios are especially pleasant in good weather, making it a nice place to unwind while others in your group explore the trails.
Johnston Canyon is a great stop whether you’re driving yourself or joining a guided tour. The trail is scenic, manageable, and incredibly photogenic. It’s definitely a must-see if you’re visiting Banff.
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