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.
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)
Options
Start Times
Pickup included
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
534 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Stunning scenery
BigD73,Apr 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent trip, guide was on time and took us on the walk pointing out and sharing knowledge and info on the area. Was tricky in parts with a new snowfall but well worth the effort
Wondrous icy falls
498maureenv,Apr 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a most wonderful time with Chloe. She was so much fun, telling great stories. The canyon is a must see in any season but we were very pleased that we were able to view the falls in their icy state. Highly recommend and ask for Chloe- she is great!
Storytelling and Sunshine
Carley B,Apr 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was an amazing experience overall. The trail was 98% covered in ice so having crampons provided was not only convenient but necessary. Sophie was an excellent guide and helped to turn a casual walk in the (gorgeous) woods into an informative tour. Even the drive from the pick up spot to the trailhead was packed with great storytelling. We got very lucky with the weather and had a perfectly warm, sunny day in April! Couldn't have asked for a better set of circumstances. Highly recommend this beautiful tour.
Amazing tour guide, amazing views
769devenj,Apr 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The guided tour is the way to go. Our tour guide, Neil Evans was very knowledgeable about the park, the canyons as well as the history of Banff. The views were absolutely stunning. The hike took about 4 hours and has multiple different terrain elevations but nothing too bad. My daughter and I give this tour company and the hike a 10/10. Thanks for having us Discover Banff Tours and thank you to our guide Neil Evans.
Breathtaking
Tiffany V,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Absolutely unforgettable experience at Johnston Canyon in Banff! From the moment we started the trail, it felt like stepping into a postcard. The turquoise water, the sound of rushing waterfalls, and the stunning canyon walls made every step worth it. The walk itself was easy to follow and incredibly scenic, with well-maintained pathways and breathtaking views at every turn. Reaching the Lower and Upper Falls was the highlight—each one more beautiful than the last. The fresh mountain air and peaceful atmosphere made it such a refreshing escape from everyday life. If you’re visiting Banff, this is a must-do. Whether you’re going for a relaxing walk or chasing views, Johnston Canyon delivers pure magic. I’d go back in a heartbeat!
Good tour
alvincF5253OM,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Superb tour with amazing views and lots of time to explore. It is not rushed. Lot of free time and guided knowledge sharing with other people. Very friendly people and staff.
A blast!
809caitlinc,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a blast! I'm not normally one for guided tours but our tour with Neil was great. He had a ton of info about the canyon and did a great job of telling us about the geography of the area. He also gave us a very clutch suggestion about when/where to ski which really helped us plan the rest of our vacation in Banff. Highly recommend doing a tour with this group, they truly do set up everything and make everything very easy.
Awesome Ice Formations
Crystal R,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Georgia was great with a blend of humor, facts, stories…and even geology! She even enticed us with treats. Thanks Georgia!
Great hike with fantastic views and our guide Georgia was amazing!
John A,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The hike was not overly strenuous. You definitely need ice cleats. The views are worth every step. Georgia was our guide and she was fabulous! The hot chocolate and cookies she served when we got to the turnaround were such a nice treat. We have only positive things to say about this experience. Georgia was even kind enough to drop us off at our hotel when we got back to town.
Interesting and fun winter activity while in Banff
juliebI436QX,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We really enjoyed the hike to the falls and the scenery was beautiful. Georgia was a fantastic guide, she was so knowledgeable and made the drive and hike so interesting and fun.
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Operated by Discover Banff Tours