Johnston Canyon Icewalk
Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Water cascades into this narrow canyon in the heat of summer, but in the winter the thundering falls freeze solid to create natural ice sculptures. Johnston Canyon is one of the most popular attractions in Banff National Park and has a network of steel catwalks built into the canyon walls that allows you to walk right along this cathedral of ice with airy views into the gorge below.
As you do, you’ll get to wander through a natural cave to gaze down at the flowering waters of the lower falls. Continue onto the awe-inducing upper falls - a glittering tower of ice that rise 30 metres above your head. These gigantic pillars of ice are the tour highlight and ice climbers can often be seen scaling the frozen columns.
This popular guided icewalk will lead you past the lower falls and on to view the breathtaking upper icefalls from the upper deck. You will also travel through prime wildlife habitat to reach the falls and learn the clues to how Johnston Canyon was formed.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age is 8 years. All children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by someone 18 years and older.
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 ski wear for this trip including hats, mittens, and warm boots. A detailed list of items to wear and bring is provided on your voucher.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended to ensure that you enjoy the tour.
Please note that this tour stays on the trail and does not traverse the ice due to safety concerns.
Group bookings of 9 or more guests have a 7 day cancellation period.
In accordance with our Cold Weather Policy, if safety conditions deteriorate, we may cancel the tour, offering guests the option to receive a refund or reschedule for another date or time.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
This popular walk will lead you past the lower falls and to the breathtaking upper icefalls. You'll hike on steel walkways built into the canyon walls and get an airy view of the canyon below. What to expect: • Walking Time: 2 - 2.5 hours • Return Distance: 3.4 miles (5.4 kilometers) • Elevation Gain: 443 feet (135 meters)
What‘s Included
Maple cookie snack, hot chocolate
Small group size (up to 12 guests per guide)
Professional guide
Ice cleats
Hiking pole
Optional gratuities
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Start Times
Pickup included
Reviews
522 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fantastic excursion!!!!
ARA T,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Just awesome!!! Anik was an awesome guide—great Banff info and lots of laughs!! Trail was beautiful, moderate hike, and had a great time!! Well worth it!!!
Beautiful views and...
Jordan O,Mar 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful views and excellent tour! Our guide was very knowledgeable and ice cleats were provided to us. Also enjoyed the cookies and hot chocolate!
Not exactly a beginner hike, but worth the effort. Shout out to Lucy's mom!
Kristina N,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The views and nature experience were epic. I would recommend this hike for an unforgettable experience. The hike itself, however, is not for beginners in my opinion. There is a lot of it that's uphill, so be prepared for that. It lasts about 2.5 hours (travel time not included). Most importantly, the trail is covered in snow and ice. The tour guide gives you ice cleats but there are still a lot of areas that have uphill or downhill slopes that are ice covered so they're challenging to navigate. I definitely recommend you go with a friend who can help you out a bit. Our tour guide Lucy was amazing. She was knowledgeable and helpful. She kept a good pace and waited for all those who took longer than others. She took lots of rest breaks which were needed. To Lucy's mom, your daughter is amazing!
Robb was our tour guide...
Pamela P,Mar 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Robb was our tour guide and did an awesome job explaining the history of the National park and leading us on the Johnston Canyon Icewalk. We had a great group and we all had a great time!
Ice Ice…
grant m,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful winter wonderland with ice formations. Neal was a great guide, he kept the walk entertaining and educational. Highly recommend
Great
R1340MGbrucem,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience with a fantastic guide Jake. He was very informative and we thoroughly enjoyed our time. The hot chocolate and maple cookies were brill!
Winter Workout
Nadine S,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great adventure and a workout depending on the time of year. Our guide Heidi was very knowledgeable. We saw ice climbers which added value to the trip.
Awesome Views and tour guide!
Stacia L,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great hike, beautiful views, extremely knowledgeable tour Guide (jeff). Really enjoyed the hike, and Pro wear hiking shoes. They provide the spikes.
Johnson canyon
Kevin H,Mar 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Canyon hike is spectacular Our guide was awesome Full of knowledge and good energy! Highly recommend this tour
Johnson Canyon Ice Walk
Kim CTuncurry,Feb 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fantastic morning hiking Johnson Canyon ice walk. A great hike suitable to a range of fitness levels. Knowledgeable and friendly guide making everyone feel comfortable and safe.
From CA$109.15
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Operated by Discover Banff Tours