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    Johnston Canyon & Ink Pots

    4.6 (89 reviews)

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    upper falls overlook
    Julie Ying X.

    I took the first Roam Transit 9 bus from town to get here. It's not reservable so get to the bus stop early. I definitely recommend coming here early since it gets crowded after 12:00 PM. The hike was pretty easy with rails and paved trails in some parts. I was wondering why there was a long line for the lower falls and to my surprise, you do get a close up view of the lower falls so it's worth the wait. The line for the upper falls is not worth the wait though, just go to the upper falls overlook (on the left) and it's a better view.

    Joanna S.

    I joined a group tour to hike Johnston Canyon during Christmas break. It was absolutely beautiful! I highly recommend hiking during the winter. I wore micro spikes which I highly recommend. There were some icy moments where I could have easily slipped had I not worn spikes. It was a moderate hike. There were not a lot of hills but lots of waterfalls. Lots of pictures were taken. There were bathrooms at the start of the hike. Parking lot can fit about 10-15 vehicles. Place does get busy, so if you want to beat the crowd, go early in the morning.

    Jason Z.

    There is a free and ample sized lot and restroom at the trailhead. Very family friendly and paved trail with decent views of the waterfall and stream below. Complaint is the lack of enforcement (parks and wildlife?) of good behavior; plenty of people feeding wild animals, tossing trash, and being turds. Another suggestion would've been to make the walking paths wider for an out and back trail. Too many people and poor behavior equals out to a subpar experience.

    Ala L.

    Best time if you want to take a long stroll on a paved walking area. Don't bring any scrollers or heave bags with you. You should bring a lightweight backpack to stored some snacks and pre-cut fruits in a separate bags. No garbage cans and no where to dump your garbage. It can be 2-3 hours walk depending on how far you want to walk. Remember that you need to walk back to your car. Bring some sturdy and comfortable walking or lightweight hiking shoes No boots, sandals, or heeled shoes. Bring a light wind breaker and/or 1/4 zip fleece. You can take off the windbreaker and/or fleece based on the weather. If you need more info, you can send me a direct message. It's worth your time and I would visit the place again.

    apple? no ty ITS GOOOD
    Shwe N.

    a quick and easy lil stroll it's like a cute hike to the lower canyon (and you can continue to go to the upper side as well) the water is super pretty and blue and the green trees are perfecto it's all unreal !! parking is accessible all around too

    Upper Waterfall (from upper viewing deck)
    Courtney P.

    One of the first hiking adventures that we did on our trip to Banff was Johnston canyon. First and foremost, we arrived a little bit later on a Saturday afternoon and parking was a nightmare. It was Labor Day weekend, and we circled the parking lot for quite some time before we eventually found a spot. The "hike" is a solitary mostly paved path that leads you out and back to the lower waterfall with the option to continue onward and upward to the upper waterfall. Both of the viewing points for the lower waterfall and the upper waterfall had quite long lines, so we opted to go past them, and just keep hiking. The farther you go on the hike, the less crowded it is going to get because the elevation changes drastically and most people were there just to snap photos of the waterfall and not actually hike. I was so glad that we kept going all the way to the upper most waterfall look out because there were almost no people up there and we got to really enjoy the beauty without the crowds.

    Great paths with solid handrails.
    Chris G.

    This park has absolutely beautiful waterfalls! The trails are very well-maintained. But it is VERY crowded because it is so beautiful. Great restroom facilities, coffee shop, gift shop, and cafe. Free parking is available, but limited. $20/day parking was readily available. We took the shuttle bus, which cost $40 plus about $60 to park in Banff (we regret that we did not use free parking a little further away).

    Daw M.

    Lots of people in the trail so it's safe for solo walkers Ice cream on the way back was amazing The last part of the falls did not wow me as much. Once you pass the lower falls the trail becomes less populated by others :)

    Win C.

    Easy Hike with paved roads. Some areas were a lot more crowded especially around the lower falls. We decided to skip it because we didn't wanna spend an hour long just to take pictures behind the falls.i recommend not bringing strollers and maybe using a carrier for the little ones. We didn't go to the upper falls because we had older parents with us and 2 littles. There's parking if you come early.

    Sammy L.

    Magical winter wonderland, from a fairytale. No video or picture can show the beauty and just the sheer size of this beautiful canyon. You have to do this hike, just grab some ice cleats or crampons before coming in the winter. We bought some on Amazon, so needed and it'll make the experience more enjoyable. They maintain the catwalk and trails nicely, it's open year round it seems. The parking lot is fairly decent in size but I'd go before 11am to avoid the crowds, no fees for entrance or the lot! Honestly, I was expecting some amazing views but in person it blew me away. My jaw dropped at every turn. The icy canyon all around you is pure bliss, we came here when the temperature was around 40 degrees fahrenheit (sorry I'm American and didn't use celcius or the metric system growing up which is a shame) on 01.26.23 which is pretty crazy because it should be way colder during this time. I'm grateful it was warmer because it made it pleasant for my 5 yr old son. Go to the lower and upper falls. Round trip I believe it took us with a kid about two hours, including us just staring at the waterfalls for a long time lol. It's very doable for most people, just get the ice cleats and crampons. Trust me. I know there are tour groups from downtown Banff if you want to go that route, especially if you don't have a vehicle and crampons. I believe the prices will vary but it might run you around $75 - $80 bucks per person. Bathrooms are available and the whole place is maintained constantly. Enjoy and please be respectful of the environment and critters, it's worth it!

    Katie R.

    Will keep this review short(ish) instead of writing a long love letter to Johnston Canyon, my absolute favorite spot that we visited in Banff! The hike was beautiful as it took you through the canyon, next to the water, and even over it in some spots. I was truly in awe throughout the entire hike! The water was the most beautiful color and I loved being surrounded by the mossy rocks and trees. We visited as part of the hop on hop off experience and were on a time crunch so we didn't get to spend any time exploring the lower falls, but headed straight to the upper falls. The hike to the upper falls was fairly moderate, a good mixture of flat, steep, and gradual incline, it got the heart pumping in a few spots, but it was short enough that it wasn't too tiring to take all your energy for the day. We arrived pretty early and I'm happy we did, as we didn't pass many people returning from their hike on our way out. When we headed back from the upper falls there were a lot people headed our way, but only in a few places on the bridges did it feel too cramped.

    Lower falls  @Journeys_with_janice
    Janice T.

    This hike was on my must do & see list. It didn't disappoint. While I wasn't able to hike to the upper falls due to time constraints, the lower falls were pleasant & enjoyable. If you have time, I do recommend hiking further to see the upper falls and if you're able, possibly the ink pots. I've seen pics and it looks quite picturesque. Johnston Canyon is an out and back trail along catwalks throughout the canyon, so the trail width is tight with people coming and going down the same trail. Keep this in mind if you want to avoid high traffic and loads of people, just go earlier in the am. It was raining when I went, so in case of undesirable weather, make sure you wear weather proof hiking shoes/boots with good grip. There were some areas in between that were muddy and puddle filled with a slight gradual incline. You can view the lower falls closer up if you crouch down through a short tunnel, just be mindful of your head. Once you go through it's only small enough for 5-6 people to step up some rocks to see the lower falls close up. If you have only 45 minutes to an hour to check out Johnston Canyon, it's most likely you'll only be able to hike to the lower falls. But it's worth it. It's seems like the general consensus on recommended time spent here is 2-3 hours. Ideally, it's probably better to go independently without a tour. It's only a 30 minute drive from downtown Banff and there is a parking lot at Johnston Canyon. If you don't rent a car, you can still access Johnston Canyon by public transit from downtown Banff. Roam Public Transit Route 9: Departs daily from May to October and on weekends from October to May from the Banff High School Transit Hub, this service travels directly to Johnston Canyon. Visit the ROAM website for specific times. However, if you are only staying in Calgary, but want to do Johnston Canyon and don't rent a car- it is possible. Westar Travel is a tour company that goes to Johnston Canyon. There are probably three tour companies that I saw that do group tours here from Calgary with the max time of 45minutes to an hour or 1hr 45 minutes at Johnston Canyon as one of the stops contingent upon the tour company you choose. Just be sure to read the respective itinerary, as some tour companies only travel to Johnston Canyon seasonally. Our group tour only had a max of 9-12 people and only four of us were willing to hike in the rain, while the rest of the group either hung out in the van or visited the coffee shop on premises. Ps you don't need a tour guide nor pay for a tour to do this trail, we just did a day tour so we could do Johnston Canyon while staying in Calgary. There's no entrance fee for the trail itself, just the price of a Banff's park pass. There are bathrooms available near the parking lot. However, I recommend using the bathrooms closest to the Johnston canyon sign arch, as it has stalls that have flush toilets and running water. I made the mistake of using the single occupant toilet that was a vault toilet in a separate building to the right side of it.

    Renee N.

    Banff National Park just keeps giving and giving with more gorgeous hikes and places to discover! We visited this place late in the day in September. There were quite a few people but you could still hike up to the falls with no waiting. Parking was easy as lots of people were leaving. It is an absolutely gorgeous canyon, with dramatic lime stoned carved walls, and a rushing creek with little falls all the way to the top. Unfortunately for us, the Upper Falls was closed for repair. Definitely a bummer as I really wanted to see the magnificence of the Upper Falls and the Ink Pots. The Ink Pots feature seven pools of green colored mineral springs. Anyway, the hike to the lower falls is pretty flat and easy. It is less than a mile to the lower falls so I think most people can make it. Once you cross over the bridge, there is like a mini cave/tunnel that you can walk through to reach a nice viewing platform. Great picture spot. This trail is just gorgeous with a the creek running by you, the intense forest surrounding you. I found it to be so peaceful and relaxing. In the winter the Upper Falls freezes offering some nice ice climbing. Love to try it someday! This canyon and falls is definitely not to be missed when visiting here. You will love it!

    The trail to the falls.

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    Gorgeous hike! A must do when in Banff. Easy trail to follow and options for an extended harder route if you want to go further.

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    Johnston Canyon & Ink Pots Reviews in Other Languages

    Review Highlights - Johnston Canyon & Ink Pots

    The best part of the hike happens after you pass the Lower and Upper Falls so make sure to keep going to the Ink Pots!

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    Banff Gondola - sulphur mountain

    Banff Gondola

    4.5(267 reviews)
    22.6 km

    We made reservations in advance via Pursuit Pass for departure time and return time. Print out all…read moretickets in advance in case of SOS before arrival for faster check-in. If you're taking a free shuttle from Brewster Transportation, there are certain areas in Banff where shuttle will pick up and drop off passengers. Allow over an hour before departure time: 1) Park your vehicle in free or paid public parking. 2) Walk to designated shuttle area(s). 3) Shuttle(s) will make multiple stops prior to arriving at Sulphur Mountain. We enjoyed the magnificent scenery from various elevation levels indoors and outdoors. Highest peak at 7,846 ft. There's a plethora of information to read, washrooms, hydration station to refill water flask(s), casual and fine dining, observatory deck, fireplace, gelato cart, gift shop, Starbucks. We spent about a little less than two hours exploring everywhere on upper level before descending and catching the shuttle. Worth the exhilarating and fascinating experience!

    The Banff Gondola is a to do while in Banff. If you're not a mountain climber but you want to get…read morethe effect of being right up there with them, this is the easiest way to do it. I was late a half hour from my designated time slot however the ticket desk folk were forgiving and shifted my time to match my arrival. The gondola will get you up 7,486 feet = 700 meters in the air to view the stunning Canadian Rocky Mountains. The 360 degree views are amazing and they allow you to stay up on the viewing deck/boardwalk for at least 90 minutes. It's actually a nice walk and the views change as you move along the path. The altitude might get to some folks and there's a lot of stairs to climb so if you're not active, you may need to take more breaks. Thankfully the path has a lot of benches/viewpoints along the way if you need to catch your breath. I also managed to catch some wildlife and came across a family of non-threatening mountain sheep. Disclaimer: At best stay on the wooden boardwalk. There is a portion of the trail that is outside the designated leasehold area which are not guarded by rails. I can't remember exactly where this is but you'll know when you see it. It's mostly rock/gravel covered with no railing. The drop is sudden and one wrong move will cause you to fall over 7,000 feet. Your doom is either that or risk running into a bear if you go off path. The parking situation is decent as long as you don't go during prime hours. You will have to pay a separate fee to park your car if you're driving in as this location does not honor the Parks Canada parking pass (even if it's for Banff/Lake Louise). There are dining options if you want to eat lunch or dinner up above. Sky Bistro has some pretty sick views. On the way out they have a gift shop and Starbucks. Definitely do the Banff Gondola as a half day trip. It's fun and you won't regret it.

    Photos
    Banff Gondola - Here we are having reached the top of the ride!! The view was absolutely incredible!!

    Here we are having reached the top of the ride!! The view was absolutely incredible!!

    Banff Gondola - Nothing but views.

    Nothing but views.

    Banff Gondola - We ate at the buffet, very average food, pricey. Fantastic view!

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    We ate at the buffet, very average food, pricey. Fantastic view!

    Emerald Lake

    Emerald Lake

    4.8(44 reviews)
    53.2 km

    Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park is a wonderful alternative for canoeing if the boathouses at…read moreLake Louise and Moraine Lake get too busy. What really stands out is the value; the canoe rental rates are significantly more affordable here than at the other major lakes. The staff that operates the boat house and the attached gift shop were wonderful, incredibly friendly, and helpful. While the lake is certainly less crowded than its more famous neighbors, parking can still a challenge. Expect to spend around an extra 20 minutes to park, and be prepared to walk a short distance from your spot to the water's edge. Once you're there, it's well worth the effort. There are also several beautiful, easy-to-moderate trails circling the lake to explore the scenery on foot after your paddle. Cilantro on the Lake restaurant can get busy, but The Window walk up food counter is quick, and perfect for grabbing some food for a picnic in the canoe. Highly recommended for a more relaxed and less crowded scenic mountain experience!

    I go to see three beautiful lakes on my first day in Banff National Park. Our last stop was at…read moreEmerald Lake in Yoho National Park. Yoho National Park is one of the four contiguous national parks in Canada's Rocky Mountains. Emerald Lake is a freshwater lake near the town of Golden. The lake has a emerald green color to it and is enclosed by mountains of the President Range. I had a nice time here. I did some of the hiking trials and saw a little bit of wildlife along the way. This lake is less crowed than Louise and Moraine lakes which I enjoyed. I enjoyed the views while hiking and came across a plaque about the fossil-bearing deposits of the Burgess Shale in the area. I grabbed lunch at the Cilantro on the Lake restaurant before heading out. There are canoe rentals at Emerald Lake if you want to get out on the water.

    Photos
    Emerald Lake - So blue!

    So blue!

    Emerald Lake - Emerald Lake

    Emerald Lake

    Emerald Lake - The trailhead for hiking paths among Emerald Lake.

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    The trailhead for hiking paths among Emerald Lake.

    Kootenay National Park - Stanley Glacier Hike

    Kootenay National Park

    4.7(15 reviews)
    34.6 km

    We had an amazing time visiting sites in Kootenay National Park while staying in Radium Hot Springs…read morefor a week. The is such a picturesque part of British Colombia, Canada. Our first stop was Olive Lake. A gorgeous green-blue body of water. A short trail from the parking lot. Our next stop was Paint Pots. Such a cool experience. We've never seen anything like it before. The colorful, iron-rich pools were so cool to see up close. The boardwalk to the paint pots was picturesque too. There are many stops and viewpoints along highway 93. Be sure to stop at the ranger station to get your park pass ($14/day) and map of all stops along the route. Most stops have restrooms available as well. Overall a must while visiting British Colombia, Canada. We thoroughly enjoyed exploring this area and would highly recommend.

    Rumor had it that Kootenay National Park was, perhaps, the most underrated of the National Parks in…read morethe area. I'm all for supporting the underdogs (& avoiding the crowds). Compared to Banff, Kootenay was empty & there are plenty of bodies of Gatorade-like waters. We enjoyed the wide open spaces and the non-touristy vibe of the park. On our Stanley Glacier Hike, we only saw 3 other sets of people... no shoulder bumping or shuttles needed here. We opted for the annual family/group pass, a great value if you're spending a week or so in any combination of the parks &/or may come back. (& we will come back... already planning it)

    Photos
    Kootenay National Park - Stanley Glacier Hike

    Stanley Glacier Hike

    Kootenay National Park - Stanley Glacier Hike

    Stanley Glacier Hike

    Kootenay National Park

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    Johnston Canyon & Ink Pots - hiking - Updated August 2026

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