Banff: Morning or Afternoon Johnston Canyon Icewalk

If you’re visiting Banff during winter and craving a memorable outdoor experience, the Johnston Canyon Icewalk offers just that—a chance to see the park’s famous waterfalls transformed into shimmering ice sculptures. This guided tour promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, expert storytelling, and the thrill of walking along steel catwalks perched above icy crevasses. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on numerous glowing reviews, it looks like a winner for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and a touch of winter magic.

What really stands out are the spectacular views of frozen waterfalls and the knowledgeable guides who make the experience both fun and educational. Plus, the small group setup means plenty of personal attention and photo opportunities. Only potential snag? It’s a half-day trip, so if you’re after a longer or more challenging adventure, this might feel a bit brief. Still, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking an authentic, accessible winter trek that captures the essence of Banff in its icy splendor.

This tour is ideal for families with children aged 8 and up, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone looking to explore Banff’s winter landscape safely and comfortably. If you’re after a scenic, well-organized way to enjoy Banff’s icy waterfalls without the hassle of planning transportation or worrying about winter gear, this could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Scenic drive along Bow Valley Parkway introduces you to Banff’s winter wildlife habitat.
• Moderate hike of 2.7 km with 135 meters of elevation gain, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Expert guides provide insights into geology, history, and local ecology.
• Small-group tours (max 12 people) ensure personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• All equipment included—ice cleats and hiking poles—so you’re ready for icy terrain.
• Authentic experience with opportunities to see ice climbers scaling frozen columns—an exciting sight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

From the moment your adventure begins, the focus is on comfort, safety, and enjoyment. You’ll be picked up at your Banff hotel—convenient if you’re staying downtown—and driven in a modern minibus along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway. This route is more than just transportation; it’s a window into Banff’s winter wildlife habitat, often with chances to spot elk or other animals along the way. Several reviews mention guides spotting wildlife during the drive, adding an element of surprise even before hitting the trail.

Once at Johnston Canyon, your guide will show you how to strap on ice cleats—a must-have for safe footing on icy paths—and offer helpful tips about winter hiking. The actual hike covers about 2.7 km with a gentle climb of 135 meters, meaning most people with moderate fitness can comfortably enjoy it. Along this path, you’ll walk over steel catwalks built into the canyon walls, offering breathtaking views down to the frozen river and canyon floor.

The journey includes stops at key points: the Lower Falls, with an optional walk through a natural cave—an unusual vantage point—and the Upper Falls, the main event. These towering ice columns are often used as ice climbing sites, and seeing climbers scale the frozen towers adds a dash of excitement. At the top, you’ll enjoy a small break with hot chocolate and maple cookies, perfect for warming up and soaking in the spectacular surroundings.

Learning about how Johnston Canyon was formed and its geological features from your guide makes the experience richer. For many, the highlight is the glittering upper falls, a towering 30-meter ice formation that’s almost surreal. As one reviewer put it, “The ice pillars are stunning, and the hot chocolate was a lovely touch after the exertion.”

The hike back down offers more chances to take photos, ask questions, or simply marvel at the winter landscape. Once finished, your guide will handle the return trip to Banff, dropping you off at your hotel, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and a trove of incredible photos.

What’s Included and Practical Details

For $79 per person, this tour provides excellent value considering all that’s included: pickup and drop-off, a professional, certified guide, small-group size, ice cleats, hiking poles, and a warm treat of hot chocolate and cookies. The equipment ensures safety and comfort on icy trails, removing the hassle of renting or borrowing gear.

Timing is flexible, with options for morning or afternoon departures, each lasting about four hours. You’ll need to be ready at the meeting point—behind the Mount Royal Hotel at 138 Banff Ave—five minutes before pickup, at either 8:12 AM or 1:12 PM, depending on your choice. The tour is suitable for ages 8 and up, but children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult, and all participants need to sign a waiver.

Weather considerations are simple: dress warmly with thermal clothing, waterproof layers, hats, mittens, and sturdy winter boots. Keep in mind that the total hiking distance is about 5.4 km, with moderate elevation, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended to enjoy it comfortably.

What Past Participants Say

Reviewers repeatedly praise the knowledge and friendliness of their guides. For example, one said, “Neil was extremely knowledgeable and knew his subjects well,” while another commended Tina for making the experience “so amazing” despite cold weather. Many mention the small group size making the tour more personal, allowing plenty of time for photos and questions.

The scenery gets universal applause, with comments like “the canyon is astonishing,” and “the views are spectacular, especially with snow on the mountains.” Several reviews note the well-organized nature of the trip—prompt pickups, clear instructions, and equipment provided—making it a worry-free outing.

Some reviews highlight the value: at $79, participants felt they received a worthwhile experience filled with stunning sights, expert guidance, and cozy treats. A few pointed out that because the trail is accessible to the public, some might prefer self-guided visits—yet many appreciated the added insights and safety of a guided tour.

This Icewalk is perfect for families with kids aged 8 and above, outdoor lovers who want a safe winter adventure, and anyone curious to see Johnston Canyon in its icy glory. It’s an excellent way to enjoy Banff’s winter without the hassle of planning logistics or gear. If you’re after a taste of the park’s iconic waterfalls and enjoy small groups and expert commentary, this tour hits the mark.

That said, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate hike and chilly weather. If you’re looking for a longer or more strenuous trek, you might find this a bit short, but for most, it’s a well-paced, rewarding outing.

The Johnston Canyon Icewalk offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience Banff’s winter landscape. With experienced guides, stunning icy waterfalls, and the convenience of included gear and transportation, it provides excellent value at $79. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned park-goer, this tour makes winter exploration accessible and memorable.

It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a story-rich experience, mixing beautiful scenery with educational insights, all while enjoying the comfort of a small group. The opportunity to see ice climbers scaling frozen columns or walk through a natural ice cave adds a special touch that makes this outing stand out among winter activities in Banff.

For those seeking an authentic, safe, and scenic winter hike—and don’t mind a bit of cold—this guided Icewalk is likely to become a highlight of your Banff trip.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour departs from behind the Mount Royal Hotel at 138 Banff Ave. Be ready five minutes before your scheduled pickup time, which is either 8:12 AM or 1:12 PM.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and above are allowed. Children 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and all participants need to sign a waiver.

What should I bring for the trip?
Dress in thermal, warm, and waterproof clothing, including a scarf, hat, mittens, and waterproof winter boots. It’s best to be prepared for winter weather with layers and sturdy shoes.

Are snow or winter boots provided?
No, but ice cleats and hiking poles are supplied to help you navigate icy terrain safely.

How long is the hike?
The total hike is approximately 5.4 km with a moderate elevation gain of 135 meters. It’s paced to be suitable for most fitness levels, but a basic level of fitness is recommended.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, gear (ice cleats, hiking poles), and a hot chocolate with maple cookies for warming up after the hike.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible with the ‘reserve now, pay later’ option.

To sum it up, the Johnston Canyon Icewalk provides an authentic, scenic, and well-guided winter experience that captures the icy beauty of Banff. It’s a great pick for anyone wanting a manageable outdoor adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and enjoying nature’s winter artistry. Whether you’re a family, a solo traveler, or part of a small group, this tour offers a memorable taste of Banff in its most stunning season.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby