Johnston Canyon

Route Description for Johnston Canyon

Anyone on a snowshoe trip should have Avalanche training, we recommend AST 2 for all backcountry travellers, and AST 1 is the minimum. It is important to note that when travelling through avalanche terrain it is extremely valuable to always have a companion.

Johnston’s Canyon is very crowded in summer, however we prefer it in winter, when the waterfalls freeze, and the tranquillity makes Johnston Canyon a very special place. This is especially true early on weekdays, where you may have Johnston Canyon largely to yourself.

The route follows the summer route and involves going along some metal catwalks along the way. Along the catwalks we prefer not wearing our snowshoes unless there has been fresh snow.

From the Johnston Canyon parking lot, pass the toilets and cross a bridge to a broad path, which begins beside Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows. The hike up to Johnston Canyon is initially in the forest, with Johnston Creek beside you.

You’ll soon have to start using catwalks that are fixed to limestone cliffs, which allow you to penetrate this canyon, as there is no space for a trail. The trail quickly approaches the Lower Canyon Falls (1.2 km, 30 m elevation gain), where you can walk through a tunnel to get an even closer look at the beautiful cascading water.

Many families with very young children turn around at the Lower Falls, however we love continuing onwards up Johnston Canyon to the Upper Canyon Falls. Continuing from Lower Canyon Falls, there is another 1.4 km and 150 m of elevation gain to the Upper Canyon Falls. The route up Johnston Canyon continues to impress as you ascend, with brief views of the large canyon walls through the forest.

Soon you arrive at a junction for the Upper Falls, with the trail to the left going to a Waterfall Lookout and the trail to the right going to Johnston Canyon’s Upper Falls. Plan on going to both, as they are both impressive.

We prefer to go right first, and head to the Upper Falls. This trail takes you to a catwalk looking out on the bottom of the Upper Falls. The best view is from the far end of the catwalk, and there is usually a line to get to this end of the catwalk. You can get great views of ice climbers from here on weekends.

Return to the junction and then head on the left-hand path, up to the Waterfall Lookout. Seeing the top of these falls is impressive, and there are some benches here which are great for a lunch break.

The way down can be slippery, so even if you didn’t bring your snowshoes it’s very useful to have microspikes to help with traction. We love the way down, as some of the views of Johnston Canyon are actually better on the trip down, so don’t put the camera away, and try to appreciate the descent as an opportunity to really take in the views.

Before you know it, you’re at the back at the Johnston Canyon Parking Lot.