Yes! We welcome well-behaved pets in designated pet-friendly cabins. Pets must be on leash at all times in Banff National Park, and there is a $25 per night fee per pet. Please bring your own pet bedding and food.
Yes, but service can be limited due to our remote location. We encourage guests to unplug and enjoy the natural setting.
Cell service is limited in the canyon area. You may be able to get a signal in certain areas, but expect a digital detox.
Many of our cabins feature kitchenettes or mini-fridges. Be sure to check individual unit descriptions when booking.
No, we are open seasonally from May through early October. The lodge closes during the winter months.
The outdoor cooking area features an outdoor BBQ area available for all guests, equipped with two propane BBQs. You can bring your own barbecue if you wish and use it there.
Outdoor cooking and campfires are not permitted due to fire risk and wildlife safety.
Yes! Enjoy full-service meals at the BlackSwift Bistro, grab a quick bite or coffee at the Market Café, or cool off with a cone at The Shack.
Yes, each unit includes one parking space. Additional spots are available on a first-come basis.
Yes. During seasonal closures of the Bow Valley Parkway, you can access us via Castle Junction. Check our Getting Here page for up-to-date directions.
Yes. The Lower Falls trail is a relatively easy, family-friendly hike that takes about 45 minutes round-trip. Some stairs and catwalks are included, but it’s a great introduction to canyon hiking.
Johnston Canyon is partially wheelchair accessible up to the Lower Falls. However, some narrow catwalks can only accommodate the width of a standard wheelchair. To avoid crowds and ensure a smoother experience, we recommend visiting before 8:00 AM or after 7:00 PM during the summer months. The round trip to the Lower Falls takes approximately 45 minutes and offers stunning scenic views along the way.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail, but they must be on a leash at all times in Banff National Park. (Fines for off-leash pets can be significant.) Please ensure your dog is well-behaved, as many other hikers also bring their pets.
For a more enjoyable experience, we suggest starting early (between 7:00 – 8:30 AM) when the trail is quieter. Don’t forget to bring doggy bags, and please do not leave them on or near the trail. A helpful tip: carry a large coffee cup with a lid, place the bag inside, secure it, and pack it out for proper disposal at the parking lot garbage bins.
Note: There are limited opportunities for dogs to access the creek water, so be sure to bring bottled water and a container for them to hydrate. Every summer, unfortunately, some pets suffer serious illness or death due to heat exhaustion—please plan accordingly.
Yes, the trail is open year-round, including winter. Once snow covers the path, we strongly recommend using snow cleats or ice grips for traction, as the trail can become extremely slippery. Ski poles are also helpful.
In winter, the waterfalls completely freeze over, forming massive sheets of ice that cling to the canyon walls—an awe-inspiring sight. Sometimes, you can even see the water surging behind the frozen layers. It’s truly a magical experience that even Disney’s Frozen can’t top. Just be aware that the trail is not patrolled at night, so plan your visit during daylight hours and always stay on the path.
Encounters with bears on the Johnston Canyon trail are extremely rare. The area is busy with visitors, and the canyon terrain itself is a natural barrier to large wildlife movement. While smaller woodland creatures are commonly seen, larger animals like bears or mountain goats are seldom spotted. Still, as a precaution, we recommend carrying bear spray and avoiding the use of earbuds or headphones while hiking.
Each season offers a unique and beautiful perspective of the canyon:
Winter (December–April)
Daylight: 7 AM – 6 PM
Most peaceful. The waterfalls are encased in ice, and the canyon transforms into a sparkling wonderland. You may spot ice climbers and hear the creek bubbling beneath the frozen surface. Ice cleats are highly recommended.
Spring (May–June)
Daylight: 6 AM – 10:30 PM
Most dramatic. Spring melt brings roaring waterfalls and surging water levels. The sound and power of the water are breathtaking, with tree trunks and debris often seen rushing down the canyon. Midweek visits are best to avoid crowds.
Summer (July–September)
Daylight: 6 AM – 9 PM
Most picturesque. Emerald pools and vibrant greenery create postcard-perfect views. Waterfalls are at their most vibrant, but so are the crowds—visit early morning or late evening for a quieter experience.
Fall (October–November)
Daylight: 8 AM – 6 PM
Most relaxed. Fall colours blanket the canyon, and water levels drop, revealing the limestone creek bed and polished river rocks below. Trails are quiet, offering a peaceful and reflective visit.
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