Johnston Canyon
AB T1L 1K2
Johnston Canyon is a popular, kid-friendly hike in Banff National Park renowned for its dramatic catwalks built directly into canyon walls along a rushing creek. Visitors follow the trail to admire scenic cascades, including a lower falls reached via a narrow rock tunnel and the larger upper falls. However, creators frequently warn that heavy summer crowds can turn the narrow walkways into slow-moving foot traffic.
Commenters consistently praise the canyon's natural beauty and use the content to plan upcoming trips, asking detailed logistical questions about lodging, shuttles, and trail safety. A few note that the built-in catwalks can feel slightly artificial rather than like a rugged hike, while others voice concerns about summer wildfire smoke and keeping the area clean.
- Start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat heavy crowds.
- Walk through the narrow rock viewing tunnel for a close-up look at Lower Falls.
- Hike the full 3.5 miles past the Upper Falls for more scenery and lighter foot traffic.
- Be prepared for tight, slow-moving queues on the catwalk sections during summer.
- Pack out all trash to help preserve and clean the trail.
Summaries are created based on reviews, notes, and social media posts.
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