Johnston Canyon Frozen Waterfalls & Banff Backroads Wildlife Tour
Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Immerse yourself in the winter wonderland that is Johnston Canyon. From breathtaking vistas of frozen falls to the hidden gems along Bow Valley Parkway, experience a morning packed with awe-inspiring beauty and heartwarming moments.
Highlights:
- Johnston Canyon's Icy Allure: Traverse through the enchanting snow-draped Johnston Canyon. Your expert guide will prep you for everything you need to journey to the mesmerizing Lower Falls, where nature's frozen artistry awaits. For the more adventurous, continue onward to the Upper Falls and witness grandeur on a whole new scale with daredevil ice-climbers scaling the icy towers.
- Bow Valley Parkway Revealed: As we travel en route to Johnston Canyon, we'll make special stops at lesser-known viewpoints along the Bow Valley Parkway. Ready your camera for scenic shots that locals are privy to!
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children 5 and under are unable to join our small group adventures
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Water refills (please BYO water bottle)
Pick up & drop off at Banff Train Station
Hot drinks (hot chocolate, coffee or tea)
Upscale, modern & spacious transportation with large panoramic windows
Local expert guides: Trained in winter driving & photography to capture your memories.
Essential gear: ice cleats/crampons and hiking poles
Small group guarantee (Max 12 guests)
Lunch (BYO or contact Radventures BEFORE booking to purchase a picnic lunch for the end of tour)
Tips for our dedicated guides (not mandatory but greatly appreciated)
Hotel pick up (for hotel pick-up, contact Radventures BEFORE booking)
Park Pass
What To Expect
Johnston Canyon
Discover the breathtaking splendor of Banff National Park's premier winter walk at Johnston Canyon! Upon arrival, your expert local guide will regale you with fascinating tales and trivia as you journey along the gentle road towards the Johnston Canyon falls trail. They will provide you with ice cleats/crampons and (optional) hiking poles for your journey to the frozen falls. This trek takes about 30 minutes, covering a distance of 1.2 km with an elevation gain of 50m. Upon reaching the Lower Falls, you can either return to the trailhead where a complimentary hot drink by a toasty firepit awaits or venture further to the Upper Falls, which adds another 30 minutes and 1.3 km to the trek. There, you'll be spellbound by the most magnificent frozen waterfalls in the canyon and can watch intrepid ice climbers navigate the icy cliffs. The complete round trip to the Upper Falls spans 2 hours, 5.0 km, with an elevation gain of 120m, suitable for those of average fitness.
Bow Valley Parkway
Immerse yourself in the captivating vistas of Banff National Park, from towering peaks to lush forests, as we navigate scenic routes between Castle Junction & Banff. Along our journey to Johnston Canyon, we'll pause at local-favored spots, amplifying our chances of witnessing the Rockies' grandeur and wildlife. Though there's plenty to explore, our tour ensures maximum outdoor immersion. Prioritizing an authentic experience, our knowledgeable local guides adjust the itinerary considering bus timings, weather, and exclusive tips. We aim to craft an unforgettable adventure, evoking envy in others.
Options
Johnston Canyon Frozen Waterfalls & Banff Backroads Wildlife Tour
Reviews
21 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing Johnston Canyon Ice Walk With A Fantastic Guide
Haley M,
Mar 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had an incredible time on the Johnston Canyon Ice Walk! Our guide, Rae, was absolutely amazing—so sweet, knowledgeable, and patient. She answered all our questions and made the experience even more enjoyable. The scenery was breathtaking, and the trail itself was well-maintained. The ice formations and frozen waterfalls were stunning, and the whole experience felt magical. If you’re visiting Banff in the winter, this tour is a must-do! Highly recommend, especially if you get Rae as your guide!
Amazing trip- definitely recommend!
Rachael B,
Jan 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00Amazing tour- Michael F was super friendly and so knowledgable, he filled the journey to and from with loads of interesting facts and information, likewise throughout the tour of the canyon- not only was it full of amazing sights- we learned so much too! Thoroughly enjoyed this trip and would highly recommend to anyone! Thank you!
Excellent day at Johnston Canyon via Radventures
Kevin H,
May 23, 2024
- Viator
5.00Connor was excellent. Extremely personable, knowledgeable about the area, and just a great tour guide.
Great winter experience!
Ivana P,
Apr 30, 2024
- Viator
5.00I had a great time during my trip. Michael, our tour guide, was very knowledgeable about the area and you can see he loves what he do. All the places we stopped were beautiful and I felt comfortable all the time. So, I will recommend this company.
Amazing hike to see the frozen waterfalls
Haleigh S,
Apr 21, 2024
- Viator
5.00Had an amazing time on our hike to the Johnston Canyon Frozen Waterfalls. Our guide Tyler was knowledgable and friendly, a great and experienced guide who shared loads on information about the falls and Banff, including the wildlife. The hike isn’t too long but is steep in places and would 100% recommend ice cleats for this time of year - we saw lots of people in trainers and even hiking boots sliding around and falling over. Overall, highly recommend this beautiful hike and definitely recommend Radventures.
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