Wildlife Residents of Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park is not just famous for its stunning waterfalls and geological formations—it's also home to a variety of wildlife residents that make it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

Wildlife Encounters at Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon's Birds

American Dipper: Often seen darting near the creek and waterfalls. They're fascinating to watch as they dive underwater for food.
Clark's Nutcracker and Gray Jays: Common in the forested areas.
Golden Eagles: Occasionally spotted soaring above the canyon.
Warblers and Sparrows: Listen for their songs in the trees along the trail.

Small Mammals in Johnston Canyon

Squirrels and Chipmunks: Frequently seen scampering around the trails.
Pikas: Look for these adorable small mammals among rocky areas. Their distinctive "eeep" sound can give them away.
Marmots: Sometimes spotted sunbathing on rocks near the upper sections.

Larger Mammals near Johnston Canyon

Elk: Often found grazing in the area, especially near the Bow Valley Parkway.
Deer: Common in the surrounding forest.
Black Bears and Grizzly Bears: Less common but occasionally seen in the area. Use caution if spotted.
Coyotes and Wolves: Rare but present in the region.

Best Practices for Wildlife Viewing

Timing: Early morning or late evening are the best times to spot wildlife, as animals are more active during these hours.

Quiet Observation

Walk softly and avoid making loud noises. Bring binoculars to observe animals from a safe distance.
Respect Wildlife: Keep at least 30 meters (98 feet) away from elk and deer, and at least 100 meters (328 feet) away from bears. Never feed wildlife—it disrupts their natural behavior and can be dangerous.
Photography Tips: Use a zoom lens for close-ups without disturbing the animals. Focus on natural behaviors for unique and captivating shots.

Wildlife Hotspots in Johnston Canyon

Johnston Creek: Watch for birds like the American Dipper along the water.
Forested Areas: Great for spotting squirrels, chipmunks, and songbirds.
Upper Falls and Ink Pots: The open meadows around the Ink Pots are excellent for spotting marmots, pikas, and sometimes larger mammals.

Wildlife Safety Precautions

Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Stay on marked trails to avoid disturbing wildlife habitats. Store food securely to prevent attracting animals. Johnston Canyon Home