This week we travel way back in time back to 2017 to when we visited Johnston Canyon during our Fall road trip to Calgary. My wife was pregnant with my little one during the trip and my older kids were only 6 and 5. The Johnston Canyon trail passes by 2 waterfalls (lower falls and upper falls), and continues to the Ink Pots. The full trail is about 11km long round trip, but due to my kids being young and my wife being pregnant at the time, we decided to only hike to the lower falls and back. It takes approximately 1km to hike to the lower falls, making the total trip a short 2km; the elevation gain to the lower falls and back is approximately 100m, also relatively easy.

Johnston Canyon has a large parking lot. There was a large beam at the entrance with the words Johnston Canyon attached to it and the beam was supported by two posts, sitting at the entranceway of the trail. The trail starts off wide and flat with a slight incline, but it quickly narrows as it reaches Johnston Creek. The trail follows Johnston Creek upstream and contains railings on one or both sides of the trail for safety. After an approximate 30 minute walk, we reached the lower falls. The waterfall wasn't very tall, but there was a large amount of water falling rapidly down. There was a small cave opening that allows a few people at a time to enter and observe the waterfall up close. Upon entering the cave, we were surrounded by the loud sound of the rushing water and the mist brought up by the falling water.

Large beam with the name Johnston Canyon attached to it.

Trail starts off flat and wide with very gradual incline. My kids were so small back then.

Map of the canyon trail posted near the trailhead.

Trail narrows as we reach Johnston Creek.

Trail follows Johnston Creek upstream.

Johnston Creek and the stone canyon wall.

More of Johnston Creek with the trail next to it.

Small drop in the creek.

Lower falls in sight.

Lower falls viewed at another angel. A few people can enter the small cave to take a closer look at the waterfall.

View of lower falls inside the cave.

The following photo was not taken within Johnston Canyon. It was taken at a rest area / viewpoint approximately 30 minute drive east of Johnston Canyon. I believe the name of the spot is Vermilion Lakes Viewpoint. My daughter was tired from sitting in the car and was stretching her arms, but it looked like she was about to hug the mountains in the background. I really like this photo was thought I'll share it with you guys.

Check out my previous hikes: