Johnston Canyon hike: Waterfalls on catwalks

Water has carved the canyon into a slot so narrow you walk on catwalks bolted to the rock.

Johnston Canyon is a half-day guided hike through a narrow canyon in the Canadian Rockies where you walk on catwalks alongside creeks and past waterfalls, ending at the largest waterfall at the canyon's back. A local guide leads the route in English. Walking crampons are provided. Children from age 10 are welcome, and the hike suits all fitness levels, though it is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

The experience

Johnston Canyon's defining feature is the catwalks themselves: metal walkways bolted directly into the canyon walls that let you navigate a slot so tight the rock rises on both sides. The route follows creeks and passes multiple waterfalls as you move deeper into the canyon. In summer, you feel the spray from the falls. In winter, the canyon fills with ice formations and you may spot ice climbers working the frozen walls.

The hike takes three hours total. A local guide leads the group in English and carries the route knowledge. Walking crampons are fitted to your boots before you start, which matters in winter when the catwalks and approach can be icy. The biggest waterfall sits at the back of the canyon and marks the end of the walk.

What’s included

• A local guide leading the route in English.
• walking crampons fitted to your boots.

Before you book

Days and timesWednesday to SaturdayDeparts at 10:30Last departure this season: 31 Oct

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (19 to 75 years) · Youth (14 to 18 years) · Child (10 to 13 years) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupUp to 9

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 10 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Freeheelin' Adventures

Is this one for you?The fixed three-hour timeframe and catwalk route suit travelers who want a half-day outing with a guide handling navigation, rather than a self-guided walk or a longer backcountry trek.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (14 to 18 years); Child (10 to 13 years). Children under 10 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is Johnston Canyon like when you're walking through it?

Johnston Canyon is a narrow slot carved by water, with rock walls close on both sides. You walk on metal catwalks bolted into the canyon walls, pass creeks running below, and encounter multiple waterfalls along the route. The canyon is tight enough that the catwalks are the only way through.

What happens in winter at Johnston Canyon?

In winter, ice formations build up throughout the canyon, and the catwalks can be icy. Walking crampons are provided and fitted to your boots before the hike starts. You may also see ice climbers working the frozen waterfall formations.

How long does the Johnston Canyon hike take?

The hike takes three hours total. The route ends at the largest waterfall at the back of the canyon.