Explore the unique ice-covered waterfalls and beautiful scenery of Banff’s Johnston Canyon during this guided Icewalk. Embark on a half-day hike which takes you all the way to the iconic upper falls, a glittering tower of ice that rises 30 meters.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 4 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Pickup optional
- • It is recommended to wait in the lobby of your hotel 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time • If staying at the Mount Royal, pickup will be from the bus parking area behind the hotel • If staying at the Banff Springs Hotel, pickup will be from the motorcoach entrance
Experience
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
Full description
Start with pickup from Banff and travel in a modern minibus along the Bow Valley Parkway to the Canyon. On arrival at the Johnston Canyon trailhead, your guide will show you how to put on ice cleats over your winter boots, as well as give you some tips on winter hiking.
From here, start the moderate 2.7 kilometer hike with 135 meter elevation to the Upper Falls. Walk along the steel catwalks built into the canyon walls which allows a spectacular view down the canyon walls to the ice and river below. Along the way you'll learn the clues to how Johnston Canyon was formed and stop at the Lower Falls, where you'll have the option to walk through a natural cave feature for a unique view.
At the Upper Falls, enjoy a brief stop on the upper deck with a small refreshment break to enjoy the views. These gigantic pillars of ice are the tour highlight and ice climbers can often be seen scaling the frozen columns. Once you've finished your hot chocolate, hike back down and your guide will transport you back to Banff and drop you at your hotel.
Includes
- 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
- Gratuities
Not suitable for
- Children under 8 years
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
• It is recommended to wait in the lobby of your hotel 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time • If staying at the Mount Royal, pickup will be from the bus parking area behind the hotel • If staying at the Banff Srings, pickup will be from the motorcoach entrance
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
What to bring
- Thermal clothing
- Snow pants
- Warm clothing
- Scarf
- Warm shoes
Not allowed
- Luggage or large bags
Know before you go
- 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
