The Ink Pots are one of Banff's most magical natural features — a collection of colourful cold-water springs bubbling up through the floor of a wide alpine meadow in Johnston Creek valley. Most visitors to Johnston Canyon turn around after the Upper Falls, but continuing to the Ink Pots extends the hike into a completely different landscape that rewards the extra effort.
Trail Overview
- Distance: 11.6 km return from the Johnston Canyon trailhead
- Elevation gain: 215 metres
- Time: 3.5–5 hours return
- Difficulty: Moderate (length, not steepness)
- Trailhead: Johnston Canyon parking lot, Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A)
- Season: June to October
The Route: Johnston Canyon to the Ink Pots
The first 2.7 km follows the famous Johnston Canyon catwalks — suspended metal walkways bolted to the canyon walls above Johnston Creek. You pass the Lower Falls (1.1 km) and the Upper Falls (2.7 km), both spectacular canyon waterfalls. This section is the busiest part of the trail and is shared with the crowds visiting Johnston Canyon.
After the Upper Falls, the trail leaves the canyon and the crowds behind. The path climbs moderately through forest, crossing the creek on a bridge, and then levels out as it enters the Johnston Creek valley — a wide, open meadow flanked by mountains on both sides.
The final approach to the Ink Pots crosses this meadow. The springs appear as circular pools of vivid colour set in the grass — some turquoise, some emerald green, some yellowish, depending on the minerals dissolved in the water. The pools are constantly fed by underground springs, making them bubble gently year-round.
What Are the Ink Pots?
The Ink Pots are cold mineral springs — groundwater that has travelled through limestone bedrock, dissolved minerals along the way, and emerged at the surface in these meadow pools. Unlike hot springs, these are cold (approximately 2–4°C year-round). The varying colours come from different mineral concentrations and the depth of each pool.
There are seven main springs, ranging from tiny bubbling pools to larger ponds several metres across. The colours shift depending on light conditions and the time of year. On a sunny day, the turquoise pools against the green meadow and grey mountain backdrop create postcard-perfect scenes.
Why Continue Past Johnston Canyon?
- Escape the crowds: Only about 10% of Johnston Canyon visitors continue to the Ink Pots. Beyond the Upper Falls, you may have the trail largely to yourself
- Different landscape: The transition from tight canyon to open meadow is dramatic. The Ink Pots meadow feels like a completely different world
- Unique geology: Cold mineral springs are rare and visually stunning. The Ink Pots are unlike anything else in Banff
- Wildlife: The open meadow is excellent for wildlife spotting — elk, deer, and occasionally bears and wolves use this valley
Tips for the Hike
- Start early: Beat the Johnston Canyon crowds by starting before 8 AM. The canyon section is unbearably crowded by mid-morning in summer
- Parking: The Johnston Canyon parking lot fills by 9 AM in peak season. Consider the overflow lot or arrive very early
- Footwear: Running shoes are fine for Johnston Canyon alone, but hiking shoes are recommended for the Ink Pots extension — the trail beyond the Upper Falls has roots, rocks, and mud
- Bring lunch: The Ink Pots meadow is a perfect picnic spot. Sit by the springs and enjoy the view
- Don't wade or swim: The Ink Pots are fragile ecosystems. Stay out of the water and off the soft ground immediately around the springs
- Bear awareness: The meadow is prime bear habitat. Carry bear spray, make noise, and don't leave food unattended
- Water: Bring at least 2 litres for the full return trip
Photography Tips
Mid-morning light works well when the sun illuminates the meadow and makes the spring colours pop. Overcast days actually enhance the colour saturation of the pools. A polarizing filter cuts glare on the water surface and reveals the pools' true colours and depth.
Book your Banff stay on Expedia and explore guided Johnston Canyon tours on GetYourGuide if you prefer a guided experience.