Johnston Canyon

and the ink pots.

Our first full day in Banff we hiked Johnston Canyon and the Ink Pots on Jenny’s suggestion. It’s a pretty popular spot so you might want to get there early.

The first part of the trail was paved and a bit crowded. We had to weave in and out to maintain a comfortable pace.

The fun part is that the trail continues along the canyon wall even after the ground has dropped out. A series of catwalks are anchored to the canyon to provide a walking path. It reminded me a lot of Vintgar Gorge in Slovenia, but felt safer. (Vintgar Gorge is wood, Johnston Canyon is pavement/metal.)

After passing both the lower and upper falls, we continued the trail up to the Ink Pots. Luckily, because the trail is more strenuous, less people hike it and the experience is much more tranquil. Well, tranquil in the sense that you’re with nature not tourists, but the hike itself is a challenge. (Unless you’ve been training).

Just before reaching the Ink Pots the trail leaves the forest and enters a wide meadow.

The Ink Pots got their name from their blue and green colors. The pools fill from a spring at different rates which causes the variations in their color.