Johnston Canyon is a highlight for many visitors to Banff, and it’s an easy hike that’s great for families. Here are essential things you should know before embarking on the Johnston Canyon hike:
Trail Basics:
Length: The trail is 5.0 kilometers long.
Duration: It typically takes 2 to 3 hours to complete.
Elevation: You’ll ascend 215 meters during the hike.
Difficulty: It’s rated as easy.
Trailhead: The starting point is the Johnston Canyon Parking Lot.
Crowds and Timing:
Johnston Canyon is possibly the busiest trail in all of Banff.
During peak season, arrive early to avoid crowds.
Summer Tip: Plan to arrive by 9:00 am (even earlier on weekends) to beat the crowds.
Expect a procession of people moving slowly in both directions on the trail.
Access and Road Closures:
Open in 2024: Johnston Canyon is fully open this year.
Bow Valley Parkway: Note that there are seasonal road closures on the Bow Valley Parkway.
From March 1st to June 25th, travel is not permitted between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. from the Johnston Canyon Campground to the Fireside Picnic Area (17 km).
Vehicle-free cycling: A three-year pilot restricts vehicles from 8 am to 8 pm from May 1 to June 25, 2024, and from September 1 to October 1, 2024, along the eastern 17-kilometer section of the parkway.
Alternative Access: You can access Johnston Canyon via the Castle Junction exit off the Trans Canada Highway (about 32 km from Downtown Banff).
Trail Highlights:
The trail winds through the canyon alongside Johnston Creek.
You’ll pass the Johnston Canyon Lodge before entering the forest.
In winter, you can see the frozen waterfalls at the end of the trail.
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