The Johnston Canyon hike on the Bow Valley Parkway is always popular during the summer months. It’s a short trail with very gradual elevation gain.While it’s nice in the summer the amount of people on the trail can be a deterrent, my preference is to go during the winter months when it’s quieter. (A bit delayed considering it’s now June)
Trail conditions during the winter vary quite a bit. On a trip in December the trail was pretty much sold ice, while a trip shortly after New Years had some packed snow on the trail – best to bring along some sort of traction device for the icier/downhill portions.
Johnston Canyon Trail
Johnston Creek
Lower Falls
Looking back to Lower Falls
Between the Lower and Upper Falls there are a couple other small falls visible from the trail.
Waterfalls along the trail
Stella Falls and the Ships Prow
The upper falls are popular with ice climbers during winter months