Exploring Johnston Canyon with Kids: A Family-Friendly Hiking Adventure in Banff
Banff, Alberta, Canada, Travel

Exploring Johnston Canyon with Kids: A Family-Friendly Hiking Adventure in Banff

Johnston Canyon is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Banff National Park, and for good reason. With its stunning waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful trails, it’s a perfect spot for families looking to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Hiking Johnston Canyon with kids can be a memorable adventure, especially if you plan ahead and take advantage of some key tips. Here’s everything you need to know, along with our personal experience on the trail.
Johnston Canyon is a must do when visiting Banff. If you can, try to do both trails to Upper Falls and Lower Falls.
Johnston Canyon is a must do when visiting Banff. If you can, try to do both trails to Upper Falls and Lower Falls-1

Johnston Canyon is a must do when visiting Banff. If you can, try to do both trails to Upper Falls and Lower Falls.

Start Early: Beat the Crowds at Johnston Canyon

One of the most important tips for hiking Johnston Canyon with kids is to start early. We arrived at the parking lot around 7 a.m., and there were only a few cars in sight. This early start allowed us to enjoy the trail in peace, with little to no crowds. By the time we left at 8 a.m., the parking lot was already filling up, and the trail was becoming much busier.

Starting early not only ensures a quieter, more serene experience but also makes it easier to find parking. The parking lot at Johnston Canyon can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arriving early is key to a stress-free start to your hike.
Johnston Canyon’s Lower Falls trail is just 0.5 miles and perfect for kids. The Upper Falls, while a bit longer at 1.5 miles, is still very doable for families. For those up for more adventure, the Ink Pots can also be accessed from Johnston Canyon, but it’s a much longer hike.
Johnston Canyon’s Lower Falls trail is just 0.5 miles and perfect for kids. The Upper Falls, while a bit longer at 1.5 miles, is still very doable for families. For those up for more adventure, the Ink Pots can also be accessed from Johnston Canyon, but it’s a much longer hike-1

Johnston Canyon’s Lower Falls trail is just 0.5 miles and perfect for kids. The Upper Falls, while a bit longer at 1.5 miles, is still very doable for families. For those up for more adventure, the Ink Pots can also be accessed from Johnston Canyon, but it’s a much longer hike.

This is the point where you can choose to go down the Lower Falls or Upper Falls trail. The Lower Falls trail has a side railing, paved grounds and gorgeous views by the roaring water-1
This is the point where you can choose to go down the Lower Falls or Upper Falls trail. The Lower Falls trail has a side railing, paved grounds and gorgeous views by the roaring water-2

This is the point where you can choose to go down the Lower Falls or Upper Falls trail. The Lower Falls trail has a side railing, paved grounds and gorgeous views by the roaring water.

The Lower Falls Trail: A Kid-Friendly Adventure (0.5 mi)
We chose to hike the Lower Falls Trail, which is a perfect option for families with young children, or if you just want a shorter, easier route. The trail is relatively easy, with a well-maintained path that is suitable for little legs. However, while the trail is kid-friendly, it’s not suitable for strollers due to the narrow walkways, uneven pavement and occasional steps.
The trail to the Lower Falls is mostly paved and runs alongside the creek, which adds to the tranquility of the hike. The sound of running water, combined with the cool, fresh air of the early morning, made the walk incredibly peaceful.
If you’re looking for a quiet, family-friendly hike that’s not too strenuous, the Lower Falls Trail at Johnston Canyon is a fantastic choice. It’s an easy walk that offers plenty of natural beauty without being too challenging for young children.
Johnston Canyon’s popularity has skyrocketed due to its stunning beauty. We were thrilled to start early and enjoy the trails with minimal crowds. The breathtaking views at every turn made it all the more rewarding-1
Johnston Canyon’s popularity has skyrocketed due to its stunning beauty. We were thrilled to start early and enjoy the trails with minimal crowds. The breathtaking views at every turn made it all the more rewarding-2

Johnston Canyon’s popularity has skyrocketed due to its stunning beauty. We were thrilled to start early and enjoy the trails with minimal crowds. The breathtaking views at every turn made it all the more rewarding.

Heated Restrooms and Dressing in Layers
One of the pleasant surprises at Johnston Canyon was the heated restrooms at the parking lot. When you’re arriving early in the morning, especially during the cooler months or even in summer, having access to a warm restroom is a great perk.
Given the chilly morning temperatures, we dressed in layers, which is something I highly recommend. Even in the summer, mornings can be quite cold in Banff, and it’s important to be prepared. As the day warms up, you can easily shed layers to stay comfortable on the trail.
Considering the Upper Falls Trail (1.5 miles)
While we only hiked to the Lower Falls, there is an option to also do the Upper Falls Trail. However, we decided against it as it would have been too much for our girls. If your family is up for a longer hike, the Upper Falls is definitely worth it, but be prepared for a bit more of a challenge, as it is a bit longer. I highly recommend doing both trails early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
Whether you stick to the Lower Falls or venture to the Upper Falls, Johnston Canyon offers breathtaking views, making it a must-do on your Banff adventure.
View of the Lower Falls waterfall from the bridge and through the cave-1
View of the Lower Falls waterfall from the bridge and through the cave-2

View of the Lower Falls waterfall from the bridge and through the cave.

Previous
Family Guide to Lake Minnewanka and Boat Tours
Next
A Luxurious Family Stay at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise