Johnston Canyon, Natural valley in Banff National Park, Canada
Johnston Canyon is a valley in Banff National Park featuring steel walkways bolted to limestone cliffs that guide visitors through narrow passages with waterfalls and rock formations. These paths provide different viewing points overlooking cascading waters and the carved stone surfaces around them.
Water carved this canyon through limestone rock over many thousands of years, creating the deep gorge and multiple cascading waterfalls visible today. The ongoing erosion continues to reshape the landscape in subtle ways.
The site draws ice climbers from across the region during winter months when falling water transforms into frozen columns climbable by experienced adventurers. This seasonal transformation has made the location a gathering place for this specialized community.
Two main routes serve different interests: a shorter path to the lower waterfalls and a longer one extending further upstream. Both trails are well-marked, though wet conditions make surfaces slippery during damper months and proper footwear is essential.
Mineral springs called the Ink Pots emerge in an alpine meadow below the canyon and display various colors from differing mineral contents in the water. These springs are overshadowed by the waterfalls but create a quieter spot for visitors seeking a less crowded area.
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