Pickup from Banff in a modern minibus along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon trailhead. Your guide fits ice cleats over winter boots and shares winter hiking tips. Moderate 2.7 km hike (135 m elevation) on steel catwalks through the canyon for views of ice and river below. Stop at Lower Falls (optional cave walk), then Upper Falls for ice pillars, climbers, and a hot chocolate break.
The dramatic, frozen corridors of Johnston Canyon serve as the stage for this 4-hour guided winter expedition.
Operated by Discover Banff Tours, this "Top Rated" journey transitions from the snowy Bow Valley Parkway to the heart of a vertical limestone chasm draped in blue ice.
You move from the suspended steel catwalks of the lower canyon to the spectacular 30-meter Upper Falls, experiencing an environment where ice climbers scale frozen pillars and ancient geological stories come to life.
Because this tour features a small-group limit of 12 guests and includes specialized ice cleats, you should book your Johnston Canyon Icewalk early to secure your morning or afternoon departure for the 2026 winter season.
Expect a sensory, moderately active, and visually stunning immersion into Banff's winter wilderness. The transition from the minibus to the icy trails is made safe by the specialized cleats, which provide a "vertical grip" on the slick terrain. The environment is one of "frozen tranquility," where the sound of the creek is muffled by thick snow and ice formations. Note that this tour is not suitable for children under 8 and involves a total elevation gain of 135 meters; guests must dress in full winter gear, including snow pants, mittens, and waterproof boots.
Ensure your winter boots have a stiff sole; soft-sided fashion boots can make the vertical pressure of the ice cleats uncomfortable during the 5.4km trek.
Take the cave entrance at the Lower Falls—it is the only spot where you can feel the vertical spray of the water while staying protected from the winter wind.
Our agency suggests that photography enthusiasts choose the morning departure to catch the sunlight hitting the Upper Falls at the perfect vertical angle for ice clarity.
You will get warm while hiking the 135-meter incline but cool down vertically fast during the hot chocolate break; pack an extra thermal layer in a small daypack.
The ice formations and crowd levels change vertically with the winter temperatures and time of day.
It is a moderate 5.4km (3.4 mile) round-trip hike with 135 meters of elevation; a basic level of fitness is required.
Pickup is available at most Banff hotels or the public bus parking behind the Mount Royal Hotel.
Full winter clothing is mandatory: winter jacket, snow pants, hat, mittens, and waterproof winter boots.
Yes, professional ice cleats and hiking poles are included in the tour price.
The minimum age to participate is 8 years old.
Book it today with Banff National Park Tours or simply following this link.
