Johnston Canyon

Travel Guide

A waterfall in a canyon with a wooden bridge and people observing.
A waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by dense forest.
A waterfall in a rocky gorge with a bridge and a path.
A river flowing through a rocky gorge with a wooden walkway and railing.
A snowy forest with a wooden bridge and a rocky cliff.

Travel to Johnston Canyon for stunning landscapes, peaceful lakes, and a range of hiking and skiing options.

Johnston Canyon is an ideal destination for outdoor, adventure travelers. The canyon itself is a striking natural feature, providing opportunities for exploration and photography. Nearby, you can enjoy the serene waters of Copper Lake and Pilot Pond, both great spots for relaxing or picnicking. For those seeking a more active experience, the Ink Pots Hiking Trail, Cory and Edith Passes, and the Vista - Arnica Lake Trailhead offer excellent hiking opportunities, while Sunshine Village provides a venue for skiing in the winter months.

While you're in Johnston Canyon, take time to explore some of the nearby areas that enhance your experience. Banff is known for its outdoor adventure experiences and features attractions like the Upper Hot Springs and the Banff Gondola, which offer fantastic views. Lake Louise is another nearby area, famous for its picturesque lakes and the Lake Louise Mountain Resort, ideal for skiing. Additionally, Castle Junction is a lookout point that provides scenic views and is a worthwhile stop for photography.

The best time to visit Johnston Canyon aligns with the warm summer months, specifically July to August, when temperatures are cool at 55 to 56°F and the weather is mostly dry and often sunny. This period tends to be the busiest, as many travelers seek outdoor activities and exploration. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during less busy times outside of these peak months, but be aware that the weather may be less predictable.

Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows

Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows

2.5 out of 5
Hwy 1A Johnston Canyon AB
Stay at this resort in Johnston Canyon. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows
Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa

Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa

3.5 out of 5
521 Banff Ave Banff AB
$114 nightly
The price is $126 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$126 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (3,353 reviews)
"Clean. Friendly. Great location. Massage was amazing."

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa
Hotel Canoe and Suites

Hotel Canoe and Suites

4 out of 5
600 Banff Avenue Banff AB
$192 nightly
The price is $213 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$213 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking in our reviews. Popular ...
Hotel Canoe and Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Hidden Ridge Resort

Hidden Ridge Resort

3.5 out of 5
901 Hidden Ridge Way Banff AB
Stay at this aparthotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (5,287 reviews)
"Another great stay at hidden ridge. Our go to with family."

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

Hidden Ridge Resort
Douglas Fir Resort and Chalets

Douglas Fir Resort and Chalets

3 out of 5
525 Tunnel Mountain Road Banff AB
Book a stay at this ski condo in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking in our ...
8/10 Very Good! (4,443 reviews)
"This is Banff's best hotel if you have kids. The waterslide and playroom make this our regular Banff hotel."

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Douglas Fir Resort and Chalets
Basecamp Suites Banff

Basecamp Suites Banff

2.5 out of 5
101, 316 Marten St Banff AB
Stay at this aparthotel in Banff. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 hot tubs, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking in our ...
Basecamp Suites Banff
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Johnston Canyon attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Johnston Canyon?
The best time to visit Johnston Canyon is from July through August, when the weather is typically mildest and most pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good bet, when it's cooler and snowy.
What is Johnston Canyon known for?
Johnston Canyon is known for its scenic canyon landscape in Canada, offering travelers opportunities to explore natural beauty. It typically features impressive rock formations and waterfalls, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities like hiking. The canyon provides a picturesque setting for experiencing the region's natural environment.
What is a good itinerary length for Johnston Canyon?
A good itinerary length for Johnston Canyon is one day to experience activities like the Johnston Canyon Icewalk Tour or a Half Day Marble and Johnston Canyon Ice Walk Combo Tour. For an extended stay of two to three days, travelers can enjoy a more leisurely exploration of Johnston Canyon, perhaps with a Private Full Day Guided Tour. See Johnston Canyon Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Johnston Canyon?
Johnston Canyon offers stunning natural beauty and unique seasonal adventures:

  • Explore Johnston Canyon, a scenic natural area.
  • Take an Icewalk Tour through Johnston Canyon.
  • Go on a Half Day Marble and Johnston Canyon Ice Walk Combo Tour.

Can I book a refundable hotel in Johnston Canyon?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Johnston Canyon by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Johnston Canyon with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Johnston Canyon trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Johnston Canyon?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Johnston Canyon can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Johnston Canyon trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Johnston Canyon trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Johnston Canyon trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Johnston Canyon trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Johnston Canyon?
If it's your first trip to Johnston Canyon, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Johnston Canyon hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Johnston Canyon hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Johnston Canyon

Explore a world of travel with Expedia