The most popular short hike in Banff National Park, following a narrow canyon carved by Johnston Creek through overhanging limestone walls. A series of catwalk boardwalks cling to the canyon walls above the rushing water, leading first to the Lower Falls (1.1 km, very easy), then the Upper Falls (2.7 km). Above the Upper Falls, the trail continues to the Ink Pots (5.8 km from the trailhead): seven cold mineral springs that bubble up from the ground in vivid colours — blue-green, cream, and ochre — and never freeze, even in winter.
Johnston Canyon is about 26 km west of Banff on the Bow Valley Parkway, which runs parallel to the Trans-Canada and is far more scenic for wildlife (watch for elk and bears). The canyon is stunning in winter too, when the falls freeze solid and ice climbers practise on the walls. Go early or on weekdays to avoid the worst crowds, which peak in July and August.