Banff: Morning or Afternoon Johnston Canyon Icewalk
Before you book
- Check before you travel. From 13 October 2026 Parks Canada closes the canyon trail to the Lower Falls and the Upper Falls lower viewpoint, with the P1 lot and washrooms, for rock-slope work, and has published no reopening date. This walk's calendar starts on 1 December 2026, and an ice-walk operator told CBC that late-November and December walks will most likely be affected, so check the operator's status before you go. Only the Upper Falls upper viewpoint and the Ink Pots stay reachable, via the Moose Meadows trail.
- Pickup is at the public bus parking spot behind the Mount Royal Hotel, 138 Banff Avenue; be ready 5 minutes before the 8:12 AM or 1:12 PM pickup. The minibus takes the Bow Valley Parkway, and the guide brings you back to Banff.
- The walk is 5.4 km return with 135 m of climb, for moderate fitness. Ice cleats, hiking poles, hot chocolate and a maple cookie are included, with at most 12 guests per guide; tips are not. Wear a winter jacket, snow pants, a hat, mittens and waterproof winter boots.
- Minimum age 8; children 15 and under need someone 18 or older with them, adults sign a waiver, and a parent or guardian signs for under-18s. The listing does not mention the national park pass, which the Bow Valley Parkway requires (2026: CA$12.25 an adult a day, free for 17 and under).
- Cancellation, as listed: “Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.”
About This Experience
A guided ice walk in Johnston Canyon, morning or afternoon, from behind the Mount Royal Hotel in Banff: 5.4 km return on ice cleats past the Lower Falls to the frozen Upper Falls, with hot chocolate.
Highlights
- Take the Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon, a scenic drive through a wildlife-rich habitat
- Hike to Johnston Canyon's frozen falls, including the lower falls and spectacular upper-falls
- Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and maple cookies while you admire the views
- Learn about the history and geology of the area from your knowledgeable guide
What's Included
- ✓ Pickup and drop-off in Banff
- ✓ Professional certified guide
- ✓ Small-group tour, maximum of 12 guests per guide
- ✓ Hot chocolate and maple cookie snack
- ✓ Use of ice cleats
- ✓ Use of hiking poles
Not Included
- Gratuities
Good to Know
- The minimum age for this tour is 8 years
- Children aged 15 and under must have someone 18 years and older with them
- All adults must sign a waiver prior to the tour. A waiver must also be completed by the parent or guardian of any child under the age of 18
- Guests should dress in winter clothing for this trip including a winter jacket, snow pants, hats, mittens, and waterproof winter boots
- In total, this is a 5.4 kilometer hike with 135 meters of elevation gain. Moderate fitness is recommended to ensure that you enjoy the tour
Meeting Point
Wait at the public bus parking spot located behind the Mount Royal Hotel at 138 Banff Ave. You must be ready 5 minutes before the 8:12 AM or the 1:12 PM pickup time (depending on the tour time selected).
