The Johnston Canyon Ice Walk is one of the most magical winter experiences in Banff National Park. Walking through a frozen canyon lined with towering ice pillars, frozen waterfalls in impossible shades of blue, and the eerie silence of a winter wonderland — it's an adventure that transforms a summer favourite into something even more extraordinary. Here's everything you need to know to plan your Johnston Canyon Ice Walk.
What Is the Ice Walk?
During winter, Johnston Canyon's waterfalls freeze into massive ice formations. The same catwalks and trails that carry summer hikers along the canyon walls become an icy path through a frozen landscape. The Lower Falls freeze into a towering column of blue ice, while the Upper Falls become a dramatic ice curtain cascading over the cliff face. The walk is available from approximately December through March, depending on conditions.
Guided vs Self-Guided
Guided Tours
A guided ice walk is the recommended option, especially for first-timers. Guides provide ice cleats (essential equipment), share knowledge about the canyon's geology and ecology, and ensure your safety on icy sections. Most tours are 3–4 hours and visit both the Lower and Upper Falls.
Tour operators include Discover Banff Tours, Banff Adventures, and several others. Evening headlamp tours are also available for a uniquely atmospheric experience. Book a Johnston Canyon Ice Walk tour for a hassle-free winter adventure.
Self-Guided
You can do the ice walk independently if you have your own ice cleats (YakTrax or similar). The trail is the same as summer — well-marked and maintained — but conditions vary and icy sections can be treacherous without proper traction. No permit is required beyond your Parks Canada pass.
The Route
Lower Falls (1.1 km one way)
The trail to the Lower Falls is the easier section, following the same catwalks as in summer. In winter, the catwalks can be coated in ice — cleats are essential. At the Lower Falls, you'll find the waterfall frozen into a massive column of blue and white ice. On sunny days, light penetrates the ice and creates an otherworldly blue glow.
Upper Falls (2.7 km one way)
Continue past the Lower Falls through deeper canyon sections to reach the Upper Falls. The trail climbs moderately through snow-covered forest. The Upper Falls are even more impressive in winter — a wide curtain of ice cascading over the rock face. Ice climbers are often visible scaling the frozen falls.
What to Wear
- Ice cleats: Non-negotiable. The trail is icy from start to finish. Guided tours provide them; otherwise, bring your own
- Insulated waterproof boots: Winter hiking boots with good ankle support
- Thermal layers: Merino wool or synthetic base layers, insulating mid-layer, and a windproof outer shell
- Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter: The canyon creates a wind tunnel effect that makes it feel colder than ambient temperature
- Hand and toe warmers: Highly recommended, especially for photography stops
Practical Tips
- Best time: January and February offer the most dramatic ice formations. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography
- Parking: The Johnston Canyon parking lot is plowed in winter. Arrive early on weekends — the ice walk is very popular
- Duration: Allow 3–4 hours for both falls at a comfortable pace with photo stops
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate with cleats. Without cleats, it's genuinely dangerous
- Dogs: Permitted on-leash, but the icy conditions make it challenging for some dogs
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