Added by Hike Bike Travelon April 2, 2012
Saved under Adventure Travel, Other
Tags: Banff National Park, Johnston Canyon

I finally made it to Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park this past weekend. I kick myself for not allowing enough time to get all the way up (it’s only 2.7 kms one way) to the Upper Falls. But I got a taste of the beauty of the place and I plan to return soon.

It’s one very slippery walk – sheer ice in places – and you”ll find yourself firmly gripping the metal railing unless you want to end up on your rear end. Most people just wear boots or shoes but the walking is a whole lot easier with Yactrax or crampons. You can rent them in Banff.

Slip sliding up the ice walk

Further up Johnston Canyon

The mostly frozen lower falls

This is one slippery walk

Consider wearing crampons or Yactrax

Reach the Johnson Canyon parking lot via Highway 1A, the Bow Valley Parkway. It’s only about 20 minutes west of Banff. The trailhead is well signed. It’s 1.1 kilometers to reach the lower falls and 2.7 kilometers to reach the Upper Falls. Plan on a half day if you want t have some fun sliding along and taking photos.

Leigh McAdam

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About Hike Bike Travel
Avid world traveler. Craves adventure – & the odd wildly epic day. Gardener. Reader. Wine lover. Next big project – a book on 100 Canadian outdoor adventures.
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