Johnston Canyon Nearby Attractions

There are several fantastic attractions near Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park that offer additional experiences for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

Johnston Canyon Ink Pots

Distance from Johnston Canyon: 5.8 km (3.6 miles) one way beyond the Upper Falls.
Why Visit the Ink Pots? These seven vibrant, mineral-rich pools are located in a serene alpine meadow, offering a peaceful and picturesque escape. The trail continues from Johnston Canyon and is less crowded.

Castle Mountain

Distance from Johnston Canyon: 6 km (3.7 miles) east via Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A).
Why Visit Castle Mountain? A stunning mountain with sheer rock faces visible from the parkway. The nearby Castle Mountain Viewpoint offers a great photo opportunity.
Tip: Stop by Castle Junction for a rest or a picnic.

Marble Canyon

Distance to Marble Canyon from Johnston Canyon: ~30 km (18.6 miles) west in Kootenay National Park.
Why Visit Marble Canyon? A deep limestone canyon with dramatic rock formations and rushing water. The short hiking trail includes bridges for excellent views.
Tip: Combine a visit here with the Paint Pots trail nearby.

Lake Louise

Distance to Lake Louise: ~25 km (15.5 miles) northwest via Trans-Canada Highway.
Why Visit Lake Louise? Famous for its turquoise waters, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks. A hub for hiking, canoeing, and dining at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Activities: Hike the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail or the Plain of Six Glaciers.

Moraine Lake

Distance from Johnston Canyon to Moraine Lake: ~30 km (18.6 miles) west of Lake Louise.
Why Visit Moraine Lake? Known for its iconic "Valley of the Ten Peaks" backdrop, Moraine Lake offers stunning views and hiking trails like the Rockpile Trail or Larch Valley.
Seasonal Access: Only accessible by shuttle during peak months (May–October).

Banff Townsite

Distance to the Banff Townsite: ~25 km (15.5 miles) southeast via Bow Valley Parkway or Trans-Canada Highway.
Why Visit Banff's Townsite? The charming town of Banff offers shopping, dining, and attractions like the Banff Gondola, Cave and Basin National Historic Site, and Bow Falls.

Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A)

Why Travel the Bow Valley Parkway? A scenic route connecting Banff and Lake Louise with stops like Johnston Canyon, Castle Mountain Viewpoint, and Morant's Curve.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for bears, deer, and elk, especially at dawn or dusk.

Sunshine Meadows

Distance to Sunshine Meadows from Johnston Canyon: ~35 km (21.7 miles) south of Johnston Canyon.
Why Visit Sunshine Meadows? Stunning alpine meadows with wildflowers in summer and ski trails in winter.
Accessible via shuttle from Banff.

Vermilion Lakes

Distance to Vermilion Lakes from Johnston Canyon: ~20 km (12.4 miles) southeast, near Banff.
Why Visit Vermilion Lakes? Peaceful lakes with breathtaking views of Mount Rundle, perfect for photography, wildlife spotting, or canoeing.

Yoho National Park

Distance from Johnston Canyon to Yoho National Park: ~40 km (25 miles) west via Trans-Canada Highway.
Highlights:
Takakkaw Falls: One of Canada's highest waterfalls.
Emerald Lake: A stunningly vibrant glacial lake with canoe rentals and hiking trails.
Natural Bridge: A fascinating rock formation over the Kicking Horse River. Johnston Canyon Home