Water cascades into this narrow canyon in the heat of summer, but in the winter the thundering falls freeze solid to create natural ice sculptures.
Johnston Canyon is one of the most popular attractions in Banff National Park, and in winter is home to our signature Banff Ice walk tours. Our guided ice walk takes you along steel catwalks built into the canyon walls all the way to the iconic frozen upper falls, with airy views into the icy gorge below.
Starting with a gentle walk to the lower falls, wander through a natural cave to gaze down at the flowering waters of the frozen falls up close. Then, continue onto the awe-inducing upper falls – a glittering tower of ice that rises 30 metres above your head. These gigantic pillars of ice are the tour highlight and ice climbers can often be seen scaling the frozen columns.
You’ll also travel through prime wildlife habitat to reach the canyon, and learn clues from your friendly guide as to how Johnston Canyon was formed.
This tour is recognized as a Canadian Signature Experience – a collection of once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences found only in Canada.