Introduction
Trail Description
- ๐ถโโ๏ธ Trail Start: The hike can start from either Johnston Canyon parking lot or Moose Meadows trailhead.
- ๐ Distance: The total distance to the Ink Pots is 5.7 km one way.
- โฐ๏ธ Elevation Gain: The trail has an elevation gain of 330 meters.
- โฑ๏ธ Duration: The round trip takes approximately 2.5 to 4 hours.
- ๐ฒ Scenery: The trail offers beautiful views of waterfalls, forests, and the unique Ink Pots.
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Johnston Canyon
- ๐ Lower Falls: Located 1.1 km from the trailhead, accessible via a catwalk.
- ๐ Upper Falls: Located 2.7 km from the trailhead, with viewpoints at the base and top of the falls.
- ๐ค๏ธ Catwalks: The trail includes catwalks suspended from the canyon walls.
- ๐ถโโ๏ธ Crowds: Johnston Canyon is one of the busiest hikes in Banff National Park.
- ๐ Best Time: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
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Moose Meadows Route
- ๐ถโโ๏ธ Alternative Route: The Moose Meadows trailhead offers a quieter alternative to Johnston Canyon.
- ๐ Distance: The distance is similar to the Johnston Canyon route.
- ๐ฒ Scenery: The route is less scenic but offers a peaceful hike through the forest.
- ๐ค๏ธ Trail Intersection: The trail intersects with the Johnston Canyon route 3.2 km from the trailhead.
- ๐ Parking: Moose Meadows has its own parking lot, located about 1.5 km north of Johnston Canyon.
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Ink Pots
- ๐ง Description: The Ink Pots are five aquamarine-colored mineral springs.
- ๐ก๏ธ Temperature: The water temperature is about 4ยฐC year-round.
- ๐ Colors: The pools differ in color due to varying fill rates.
- ๐ซ No Swimming: Swimming in the Ink Pots is prohibited.
- ๐ธ Photography: The area offers excellent opportunities for photography.
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Accommodation
- ๐จ Johnston Canyon Lodge: Located at the trailhead, open from May to October.
- ๐๏ธ Johnston Canyon Campground: Open from May 23 to September 22, 2024.
- ๐จ Baker Creek by Basecamp: Located 20 km north of Johnston Canyon.
- ๐จ Castle Mountain Chalets: Located at Castle Junction, about 6 km north of Johnston Canyon.
- ๐จ Lake Louise Inn: Offers a warm pool and hot tubs, located in Lake Louise.
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Tips
- ๐ Timing: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- ๐งฅ Clothing: Bring an extra layer as it can get chilly in the canyon.
- ๐ป Bear Safety: Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- ๐ Parking: Arrive early to secure a parking spot.
- ๐บ๏ธ Maps: Carry a map of the area, although the trail is well-marked.
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| Travel Information |
|---|
| ๐ย ย ย Phone: +1 403-762-1550 |
| ๐ย ย ย Website: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/randonee-hiking/banff?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=inkpots |
| ๐ย ย ย Hours: See hours |
| ๐ย ย ย Address: Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1K2, Canada |
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