OUR FIRST STOP IN BANFF //
On August 19th, 2016, we arrived at the Johnston Canyon Resort around 3pm, checked in and briefly explored the grounds. Soon after, we went back to the cabin packed a small bag and headed to the Johnston Canyon trailhead, just minutes from our cabin. Knowing it was a popular often crowded trail we figured we would miss the rush if we started closer to dinner time.
THE TRAIL //
One of the most popular day hikes in Banff National Park. It's located in the Bow Valley, about twenty minutes from downtown Banff. It's pretty easy, making it ideal for families and people of any fitness level. At the base of the trail, there is a restaurant, restrooms, gift shop, and a cute, seasonal ice cream shack.
From there, there is a wide, paved trail that leads through the forest to the catwalks that connect to the limestone canyon walls. The catwalks are elevated high above the rushing waters and take you down directly beside the creek. Along the trail, there are informative posts about the wildlife, sounds of the forest, etc. making it fun and educational for both children and adults. Much of the canyon is shaded and was much chillier than expected.
Once you get to the Lower Falls, you'll see a large pool of water created from the powerful waterfall. The bridge is probably the best place to get photos and take in the view. If you continue to the other side of the bridge, there is a short tunnel that you can go through to get a more intimate look (with your eyes, not so much the camera). I highly recommend doing this! When you're able to get that close to the water, you'll realize what a beautiful force of nature these falls are. You may get a little misty, but it's worth it.
Don't forget to look around to see if others are waiting to experience the falls up close. If there are, don't be rude and take a million selfies. Take a couple of photos and move on. We've all experienced that person, and it's not fun!
ON TO THE UPPER FALLS //
The trail to the Upper Falls gets a little steeper and takes you up higher above the canyon then brings you back towards the creek. Still, much of the trail is paved and pretty easy. We explored to the right of the path a bit and enjoyed some quiet time down by the water. There are some other scenic falls along the way. Once you reach the Upper Falls, there is a long catwalk that hugs the side of the canyon then takes you over a bridge to view the falls. There is also another viewing point if you take the steeper trail above to the platform that hangs over the gorge above the waterfall.
Unfortunately, it was starting to get dark, and we needed to turn around. If you want to continue to the ink pots, they are about 1.8 miles from the Upper Falls. If time weren't an issue, we probably would have continued further, but I wasn't upset we weren't able to make it there. I'm sure the hike through Moose Meadows is pretty, but after some research, it seemed like many hikers find the ink pots disappointing. Either way, we just didn't have enough time.
TIME / DISTANCE / ELEVATION GAIN
DIFFICULTY: EASY (suitable for all ages) - OUT & BACK TRAIL
TIME/DISTANCE/ELEVATION GAIN
30 minutes to the Lower Falls / .7 miles one way / roughly 100 ft.
1 hour to the Upper Falls / 1.7 miles one way / roughly 400 ft.
2.5 hours to the Ink Pots
TIME OF YEAR: Best during the June-August months
HIKING TIPS //
Wear lots of layers. It can get really chilly in the canyon in the shaded areas, especially if you get wet from any of the waterfalls.
Bring water.
During the summer months, the trail can get very crowded. If there are cars lined up the Bow Valley Parkway chances are the trail is also going to be packed. Try to get there as early as possible or go later in the day and take advantage of the long daylight hours, as we did.
Casual footwear will get you to the Lower Falls during the summer months. If you're planning on going further, I'd suggest wearing hiking boots or supportive sneakers. In the winter you might want to consider something more to keep from falling on the ice like traction cleats.
OVERALL THOUGHTS //
I honestly loved the trail. It was easy (it felt like more of a walk than a hike), and the views were gorgeous. The trailhead was just minutes from the parking lot. The trail itself was well maintained, the informative signs were fun. I especially liked that this trail would be suitable for children, yet enjoyable for adults. The catwalks offered unique views as if you were climbing the limestone walls.
This trail can easily get packed by late morning, but that can easily be avoided by going really early or later in the evening in the summer months.
This was just the start of four days of beautiful hikes in Banff! Keep reading to see the others and feel free to comment below if you think I missed anything or have any questions! xx ASH
