Explore Banff’s Frozen Trails at the Johnston & Grotto Canyons!
Explore Banff’s stunning winter landscapes on a guided Icewalk at Johnston or Grotto Canyon. Discover frozen waterfalls, ancient pictographs, and scenic trails with Banff Adventures. Book your tour today!
The Rocky Mountains boast several canyons, and in Banff, you can get the chance to view them on guided tours! At Banff Adventures, we offer Icewalks at Johnston and Grotto Canyons that you don’t want to miss this winter season. Here are a few of the icewalk adventures we offer, some things to do nearby, and a few tips for how to prepare for your upcoming tour. Keep reading!
Our Johnston Canyon Adventures
The Johnston Canyon offers breathtaking views of one of Banff’s most iconic landmarks. This beautiful spot of our National Park includes waterfalls on the upper and lower ends of the canyon. The Upper Falls are the real showstopper of this tour, rising 30 metres tall. During the winter, these falls turn to icicles frozen in place mid-downpour- a truly amazing sight to see!
We offer several times for touring the Johnston Canyon Icewalk. Each tour includes a shuttle bus to and from most hotels in Banff, a tour guide, and each guest will receive ice cleats to walk safely through the suspended catwalks.
Johnston Canyon Icewalk: This four-hour tour can be taken in the morning, mid-morning, or early afternoon. During this guided hike, you’ll hear stories about the canyon’s genealogical formation—perfect for adventurers who enjoy science and history!
Johnston Canyon Icewalk (Evening): This Icewalk spans 2.5 hours and focuses on the lower falls. In addition to the cleats, you’ll also get to wear a headlamp (which you’re allowed to keep) to keep your path lit along the way!
Marble & Johnston Canyon Icewalk Combo: This 5-hour tour gives you the chance to visit two canyons in one go! You’ll start at the Marble Canyon, a secluded tourist attraction in the Kootenay National Park, and finish off at Johnston.
Take a Rest and Have a Bite!
Do you want to rest and eat after your tour? Our Icewalk is located near the Johnston Canyon Lodge, featuring the Johnston Canyon Market Cafe and the Blackswift Bistro. Whether you want a simple cup of coffee to warm up or a sit-down meal, you don’t have to wander too far to find it!
Our Grotto Canyon Adventure
Grotto Canyon is another gorgeous landmark that makes for a great day out in the winter. On this tour, you’ll get to tread across a frozen creek at the base of the canyon in Bow Valley. As your tour guide leads you to the Grotto Canyon waterfall, you’ll get to spot pictographs left by First Nation peoples and learn about their possible symbolic meanings.
This tour spans approximately four hours and can be enjoyed by guests as young as eight. This Icewalk is ideal for families looking for a lower-impact tour. If you’re bringing the kids with you, they’ll love the complimentary maple cookies and hot chocolate provided by your tour guide!
Things to Keep in Mind
Our Icewalks are fun and safe tours that give travellers the chance to explore Alberta’s Rocky Mountains—just make sure to prepare ahead of time!
When packing for your trip to Banff, include thermal base layers, sweaters, winter jackets, scarves, mitts, and hats with your other clothes to stay warm throughout the day. Also, make sure to wear suitable footwear, such as winter boots or hiking boots.
Each of our icewalks offers different levels of exertion, which may impact which one you choose to book. The Grotto Canyon is considered an easy tour with little incline, while the Johnston Canyon is moderate to intermediate with steep areas and elevation gains throughout.
If you prefer a more relaxed and easygoing tour, the Grotto is your guy! If you’re looking for more adventure and activity, you’ll love traversing the Johnston.
Book Your Icewalk Today with Banff Adventures!
Dig your heels (or cleats) into Banff by booking one of our Canyon Icewalks! Exploring these beautiful natural formations is a bucket-list adventure you don't want to miss out on. Contact our team at Banff Adventures today to schedule your tour.
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