Johnson Canyon, west of Banff, is the most popular stop on the Bow Valley Parkway. The trail winds through the woods and along cantilevered walkways through the rock canyon. If you can, come early in the day to avoid the crowds.

We did this in the afternoon (as it warmed up a bit). There were people doing it in normal shoes, but we highly recommend getting crampons (you can either rent them in town or buy them on Amazon or something like that). If you wanted to do the Upper and Lower Falls (which is what we did) it was about 3 miles round trip (1.5 miles each way). It took us probably a little less than 2 hours to do the whole thing. Honestly if you want a winter hike, it feels like this is a can’t miss hike.

We walked both Upper Falls and Lower Falls on a slightly smoky day. It was perfect way as we did not require great visibility. The falls were very vibrant and took a number of good shots on our trails . Parking was very comfortable we went a bit early the roads beyond the lot was meant for walking and cycling only. carried a few sandwiches and snacks on the way

Seeing other reviews I’m glad we visited in the off season. It was still busy but not terrible. In any case, go and hike the trail! It is lovely ….along a creek with such lush vegetation and accompanied by the sound of birds! The falls are wonderful. I climbed through the cave near the lower falls for an up close view. It was very slippery so I was grateful to another hiker who grabbed my hand. The pathways make it an easy hike. I enjoyed the views and sound of the rushing water.

It was awesome! So beautiful and is at an amazing location! If you come here make sure to bring bear spray just in case because we saw a black bear up close! It didn’t attack, no-one got hurt and it was about 10 yards away! It was I a perfect position to get a perfect photo! I love Johnston Canyon and it was amazing to see such amazing scenery in Banff. I on holiday to Canada, I had never been before and going here was such an amazing opportunity to see the spectacular views of Canada. Absolutely gorgeous and would definitely return. A solid five stars from Ellie Reviews!

I had to be on time for an appointment to go to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. Thus, while I was pressed for time, I was glad that I got to see the Lower Falls of Johnston Canyon. It was not easy to get parking at the canyon, and there were definitely some crowds. The water was turquoise in color, the water flowed very quickly, and the falls were spectacular to watch. The walls of the canyon were also beautiful to observe. The trail was crowded, but it was well-maintained. if I had extra time, I would have continued up to the Upper Falls.

Would recommend going here either very early in the day or later afternoon during the busy season. It is very crowded but worth the trek up the canyon to see the magnificent waterfalls and river. It is otherworldly there. The colors and the rock formations with the cantilever walk way over the river is gorgeous. If you are driving and not taking the bus service, parking will be challenging at the lot, however, next to the trail parking is private parking and you can buy a parking pass and just park there. It was 15 CAD. They also have a little store and cafe. The walk to the trail is very short from that lot as well. I would recommend that option if you are driving. I would imagine in the off season this place is just as impressive. A must do if you are in the Banff area!

This was our first real excursion on our trip to Banff. The drive out from Banff was quiet and we saw a group of Elk on the side of the road. We arrived early to beat the crowds and I recommend arriving early. The lot was full by the time we left and the paths were too crowded. We arrived early enough to avoid long lines at the lower waterfall. It is a decent hike that I would rank as moderate. They did a great job building and maintaining the walking path

We did the whole 1 1/2 each way. There’s so many falls and beautiful areas the whole way. Yes Lower falls is beautiful, but so is Upper Falls which is bigger and all the other falls and canyon areas along the way. You follow water the entire way. Second part to upper falls is more challenging, but there’s plenty of resting areas if needed.

The waterfalls were spectacular. Definitely worth the extra 3km walk to the Ink Wells. We started the trail at about 7.15am and it was so lovely and peaceful. On the walk back at about 11.30am, it was packed with people arriving. So noisy and people were queuing to see the falls. Definitely go early, if you want peace and quiet.