Johnston Canyon Frozen Falls Adventure
- From CA$ 110
+16- 4 Hours
- Ages: 8 +
- Activity Level: Easy / Leisurely
Private Tours: Free 7 day cancellation No risk
Banff’s must-do winter walk.
Follow the catwalks deep into Johnston Canyon, where the creek goes quiet under the snow and the falls freeze into towers of blue and white ice. Watch ice climbers inch their way up the frozen Upper Falls, then warm up with hot drinks on a drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, where elk and bighorn sheep are often spotted. With crampons and poles included, every icy step feels solid underfoot.
Frozen falls, fresh snow, and a walk you’ll replay all winter.
The Rad Experience
Explore in Comfort
Skip the crowded bus. Max 10 guests, premium vehicles and a pace that actually lets you take it all in.
Legendary Local Guide
Guides who turn mountains into stories and feel like a friend by day's end. They know the wildlife, the hidden lookouts, and the stories no guidebook has.
Secret Stops Only We Know
Some of the best moments happen off the itinerary. Your guide knows exactly where to find them.
Your Booking Protects This Place
1% of every booking goes straight to conservation. You're not just exploring the Rockies. You're protecting them.
Guest Reviews
Itinerary
Hotel Pick-Up in Banff
Your guide sets the scene as we head toward Johnston Canyon along the Bow Valley Parkway, sharing local insights and hidden stories about Banff’s winter wilderness.
Johnston Canyon
Step into a magical ice-covered canyon where frozen waterfalls and towering limestone walls create an unforgettable scene. Equipped with ice cleats and hiking poles, follow your guide through snow-draped trails leading to the Lower Falls, where a partially frozen waterfall flows through a cave-like opening. For the adventurous, continue to the Upper Falls, where you might catch ice climbers scaling the icy cliffs.
Bow Valley Parkway Hidden Gems
On the way back, we make exclusive stops at scenic lookouts known only to locals. Keep your camera ready. This is a rare chance to capture Banff’s winter landscapes without the crowds.
Hotel Drop-Off in Banff
We’ll drive you back to your pick-up spot, with local recommendations for lunch, après-adventure drinks, or whatever comes next in your Rocky Mountain day.
What's Included
Essential winter gear: ice cleats/crampons & hiking poles
Small group experience (max 10 guests)
Comfortable, premium transportation
Local guide trained in photography and storytelling
Hot drinks (hot chocolate, coffee, or tea) & sweet treat
Fresh water refills (BYO bottle)
Polaroid souvenir
Hotel pick-up and drop-off at select Banff locations
Lunch
Guide gratuities (optional)
Pick-up and Drop-off
Select your preferred location at checkout
Make this adventure private
Your group. Your pace. An itinerary built entirely around you.
Call or email our concierge, we handle every detail.
FAQs
What does the Johnston Canyon Explorer (Winter) tour visit?
The frozen catwalks of Johnston Canyon, one of Banff’s most iconic winter experiences. You’ll walk out to the Lower Falls, frozen solid and genuinely dramatic, and can optionally push on to the Upper Falls, before stopping at a few hidden Bow Valley Parkway gems on the way back. All the ice walking gear is provided too. And because it’s a daytime tour, you’ll actually get to see everything in its full glory.
What's the difference between the Johnston Canyon Explorer and the Banff Stargazing tour?
Both start in Johnston Canyon, but they’re genuinely different experiences. This one is during the day, goes a little further (with the optional Upper Falls), and focuses on the canyon itself in full winter light. The Stargazing tour heads out after dark, covers a shorter section of the canyon, and then moves on to astronomy at a dark sky spot. Both are wonderful, so it really comes down to whether you’re after a daytime adventure or an evening one.
Can ice climbers be seen at Johnston Canyon?
Often, yes! In winter you’ll usually spot climbers scaling the frozen Upper Falls walls. Your guide will point them out and explain exactly what they’re doing, which adds a really cool extra layer to the whole experience.
What winter gear is provided?
Ice cleats or crampons and hiking poles, both included. Just dress warmly and you’re ready to go.
Is the Upper Falls hike included?
It’s optional, and adds roughly 2.4km and about 100m of climbing. Your guide will assess the conditions and the group’s energy on the day and let you know. If you’d like to give it a go, just say so upfront.
How cold does it get at Johnston Canyon in winter?
Expect anywhere from -10°C to -25°C in peak winter, though the canyon is sheltered from the wind, which makes it feel far more bearable than open terrain. Full winter layers are essential here, so whatever you do, don’t skip the base layers.
Is this tour suitable for people who have never worn crampons?
Totally fine. Your guide will fit them properly and show you exactly how they work before you take a single step on the ice. The catwalks are well maintained and the crampons do most of the work for you, so most guests are genuinely surprised by how easy it is.
What's your cancellation policy?
Nice and stress free. As long as you contact us by email or phone at least 24 hours before your booking start time, you can cancel or make changes without any penalty at all. Easy as that.
- From CA$ 110
Private Tours: Free 7 day cancellation No risk