From Banff: Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk

Embarking on the Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk from Banff is a captivating winter adventure that transports visitors into a frozen wonderland. Trekking along the canyon’s catwalks, adventurers will witness the breathtaking beauty of Lower Falls, the Twin Falls, and the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Ice. Led by experienced guides, this 5-hour excursion promises a unique experience amidst nature’s icy artistry. With safety precautions in place, the journey invites participants to enjoy the enchanting landscapes and uncover the hidden gems that make this destination truly remarkable.

About Your Stay

• A 5-hour guided winter adventure exploring the frozen landscapes of Johnston Canyon, located near Banff.
• Includes a 75-minute guided tour along the canyon’s frozen trails and catwalks, with an optional additional 1-hour tour.
• Highlights include the Lower Falls, Frozen Twin Falls, Stella Falls, and the Cathedral of Ice, with opportunities to see ice climbers.
• Suitable for participants aged 8 and above, with ice cleats provided for safety during the hike.
• Departs from the Mount Royal Hotel in Banff with a 30-minute drive to the trailhead, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk is a popular 5-hour winter adventure that takes visitors on an immersive journey through the stunning frozen landscape of Johnston Canyon.

A captivating 5-hour winter adventure exploring the frozen beauty of Johnston Canyon’s stunning landscape.

Priced from Kč 1,533 per person, the tour is limited to 12 participants and led by an experienced, English-speaking guide.

Highlights include a guided walk along catwalks and trails, opportunities to photograph ice formations and witness ice climbers, and the rental of ice cleats for safety.

The tour offers free cancellation with a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible and convenient option.

Itinerary Details

The Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk starts from the Mount Royal Hotel, where participants board a van for the 30-minute drive to the trailhead.

Once at Johnston Canyon, the guided tour and walk along the canyon’s frozen trails and catwalks lasts 75 minutes.

After a 15-minute break, guests have the option to continue on an additional 1-hour guided tour.

The main stops include the Lower Falls, the frozen Twin Falls, Stella Falls, and the Cathedral of Ice at the Upper Falls, where visitors may spot ice climbers in action.

Highlights and Features

One of the key highlights of the Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk is the unique opportunity to explore the canyon’s frozen landscape.

Participants will walk along catwalks and trails, learning about the canyon’s formation and the fossil corals embedded in the rock.

The tour offers stunning photo opportunities of the ice formations and frozen waterfalls, including the Lower Falls, Frozen Twin Falls, Stella Falls, and the Cathedral of Ice at the Upper Falls.

Adventurous guests may even spot ice climbers in action at the Upper Falls.

For safety, ice cleats are included with the tour.

Booking Information

To book the Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk, visitors can reserve their spot without an upfront payment.

A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required for bookings. For last-minute confirmations, customers should contact the office.

Full refunds are available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Full refunds are available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour has a limited group size of 12 participants and is offered in English with a live tour guide.

Guests should meet at the tour bus parking area behind the Mount Royal Hotel.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Information

Along With the booking details, there are a few more important points to consider for the Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old or individuals with mobility issues.

The meeting point is the tour bus parking area behind the Mount Royal Hotel, at the corner of Caribou Street and Beaver Street. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Based on 2 reviews, the tour has an overall 5/5 rating.

Participants will need to wear appropriate winter attire, and ice cleats are provided for safety during the icy hike.

Exploring the Lower Falls

The guided tour of Johnston Canyon begins with a leisurely walk along the Lower Falls.

Participants traverse a series of catwalks and trails, marveling at the frozen waterfall below. The guide points out the canyon’s geological features, including the fossil corals embedded in the rock walls.

As participants traverse the catwalks and trails, they marvel at the frozen waterfall below, while the guide points out the canyon’s geological wonders.

As the group approaches the tunnel, they’re awed by the cathedral-like ice formations lining the passageway. The frozen Lower Falls stand tall, a testament to the power of winter in the Canadian Rockies.

This is just the start of the icewalk adventure, with more impressive sights awaiting at the Upper Falls.

Marveling at the Frozen Twin Falls

After marveling at the frozen Lower Falls, the group proceeds deeper into the canyon, eager to witness the next natural wonder – the Frozen Twin Falls.

The trail leads them to a breathtaking sight – two magnificent waterfalls, their cascades completely frozen in time. The guide explains how the unique microclimate of the canyon allows these falls to freeze over, creating a stunning display of ice sculptures.

Participants eagerly snap photos, captivated by the intricate patterns and textures of the frozen water. The serene setting invites contemplation, as the group takes a moment to appreciate this winter wonderland.

Discovering the Cathedral of Ice

What awaits the group as they continue their journey deeper into the canyon?

They reach the Cathedral of Ice, a majestic frozen amphitheater carved by the canyon’s waters. The guide explains the dramatic formation of these awe-inspiring ice sculptures, pointing out the distinct layers and colors.

Participants are captivated, snapping photos of the glistening walls and vaulted ceilings. The guide encourages them to listen carefully, as the ice occasionally creaks and groans, a testament to the power of nature.

With ample time to explore, the group marvels at this natural wonder before reluctantly continuing onward.

Questions About Your Stay

Are Photos Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photos are allowed during the tour. The activity overview states that the highlights and features include the opportunity to "Photograph stunning ice formations and frozen waterfalls" as part of the Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk experience.

What Type of Clothing and Footwear Is Recommended?

Warm, waterproof layers and insulated, non-slip footwear are recommended. Participants should dress for cold, snowy conditions and bring extra socks. The tour provider includes ice cleats to ensure safe footing on the icy trails.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for the tour. However, a brief refreshment break is already included in the itinerary, so additional food and drinks are not required. The tour guides can provide recommendations for local eateries as well.

Is the Tour Available Year-Round?

The guided icewalk tour is a seasonal offering, available only during the winter months when the canyon is frozen. It’s not available year-round, as the weather conditions and ice formations are the key elements of the experience.

Do I Need Any Prior Experience for This Activity?

No prior experience is required for the Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk. The tour provides ice cleats for safety, and the guide leads participants through the canyon’s frozen landscapes, providing information about the formation and features along the way.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Enjoy the winter wonderland of Johnston Canyon, where frozen waterfalls and icy landscapes captivate the senses. This guided icewalk adventure from Banff promises an unforgettable experience, allowing you to explore the canyon’s stunning natural beauty and marvel at the frozen artistry of nature. With safety precautions and expert guidance, you’ll embark on a journey through this enchanting frozen world.

You can check availability for your dates here: