From Banff: Marble & Johnston Canyon Icewalk Combo

If you’re looking for an experience that combines breathtaking scenery, a taste of adventure, and a good dose of Canadian wilderness, the Marble & Johnston Canyon Icewalk Combo might just be your perfect fit. This 4-hour guided tour packs in two distinct icy excursions in Alberta’s most iconic national parks, offering a chance to see the Rockies’ winter magic firsthand.

What we love about this tour: First, it’s a great value — two icewalks, transportation, gear, and warm treats all bundled into one surprisingly affordable price. Second, the diverse scenery from deep slot canyons to waterfalls frozen in time keeps the experience fresh and visually spectacular. Lastly, the small group feel and attentive guides make the adventure personal and safe, even in winter’s chill.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is not suitable for children under 8, and proper winter gear is essential. If you’re not prepared for cold weather or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. But for those who love outdoor exploration and are comfortable in winter conditions, it’s a memorable way to experience the Rockies’ icy side.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who appreciate manageable hikes, stunning vistas, and want to include a bit of both British Columbia and Alberta in their itinerary. It’s ideal for those seeking an authentic, hands-on winter adventure with all logistics taken care of.

Good To Know

• Two canyons, two provinces: Experience both Marble Canyon in BC and Johnston Canyon in Alberta in one tour.
• Two guided icewalks: Enjoy easy, one-hour walks with gear provided, perfect for beginners and seasoned hikers alike.
• All-inclusive: Ice cleats, transportation, hot chocolate, cookies, and hand-warmers are included.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, attentive guides enhance safety and share interesting stories.
• Comfortable logistics: Convenient pickup from Banff and flexible booking options with full cancellation.
• Authentic scenery: Frozen waterfalls, deep slot canyons, and blue ice formations make for incredible photos and memories.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off at the bus parking area behind the Mount Royal Hotel in Banff. Guides are easy to spot—wearing bright green jackets and driving a white 15-passenger van—so finding the group is straightforward. Pickups are scheduled for 8:20am and 1:20pm, giving you options for morning or afternoon adventures. The transport is comfortable and well-coordinated, allowing you to relax and get excited about the day ahead.

Marble Canyon: An Icy Hidden Gem

The first stop is secluded Marble Canyon in British Columbia’s Kootenay National Park. Here, you’ll spend about an hour walking atop the canyon, which is known as one of the deepest slot canyons in the Rockies. The guide will lead you along a well-marked trail, with ice cleats and trekking poles included for safety and grip.

What makes Marble Canyon special is its intimate, quiet beauty. As you peer down from the icy trail, you’ll see transparent waters rushing below, frozen in a narrow, crystal-clear corridor. The canyon’s walls, covered with snow and ice, create an otherworldly scene that’s perfect for photos. Reviewers mention the “crystal-clear cascading waters” and the “deep, narrow canyon walls,” emphasizing how striking and peaceful this spot feels, especially in winter.

Warm-up Break and Transit

After the Marble Canyon adventure, there’s a chance to warm up in the van, where hot chocolate, cookies, and hand-warmers await. This break is not just a comfort but also a chance to chat with your guide and other travelers, making the experience more personable.

The group then journeys back across the continental divide, heading into Alberta’s Banff National Park. The drive itself offers scenic views of the mountains and forests, a reminder of the vast wilderness that surrounds these canyons.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Johnston Canyon: Iconic and Frozen in Time

The second stop is Banff’s most popular hiking attraction, Johnston Canyon. This site is famous for its suspended catwalks, waterfalls, and blue ice pillars. The walk here is also about an hour, with easy terrain that’s suitable for most able-bodied participants.

Walking through Johnston Canyon, you’ll be surrounded by towering ice formations and frozen waterfalls that seem to defy gravity. The guide enhances the experience by pointing out features like waterfalls frozen in mid-flow and the tunnel that offers a close-up view of the Lower Falls, all covered in thick ice and snow.

Reviewers, including Ivonne from Mexico, highlight how “the guides are incredibly attentive,” giving helpful tips and sharing stories about the landscape. She also notes that “every place they take you is worth it,” which captures the overall value of the tour.

The Experience and What You’ll Take Home

Throughout the tour, you’re equipped with professional interpretive guides, who provide insights into the geology, hydrology, and natural history of the canyons. The inclusion of ice cleats and trekking poles means even those new to winter hiking can navigate safely.

The tour wraps up with a return to Banff, typically around the 4-hour mark, leaving you energized and with incredible images of frozen waterfalls, icy catwalks, and deep canyons. Plus, the warm snacks and thoughtful gear make the experience comfortable and memorable.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At $81 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the two distinct locations, gear, transportation, and snacks included.
• Duration: Four hours in the winter, with most of the time spent outdoors, so dress warmly.
• Group Size: Small groups ensure personalized attention and safer, more engaging walks.
• Booking: Reservations require at least 24 hours’ notice, and the flexible cancellation policy makes it less stressful to plan.
• What to Wear: Bundle up with winter boots or hiking boots, winter coat and pants, a warm hat, and gloves. Proper gear is a must—if unprepared, you might be turned back.
• Age Limit: Not suitable for children under 8, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One recurring theme from past participants is the value of the experience. Ivonne from Mexico said, “It is an incredible place, every place they take you to is worth it,” praising both the scenery and the guides’ attentiveness. Another reviewer appreciated the “help and recommendations” offered by guides, which added to the enjoyment and safety of the adventure.

The flexibility of the tour—offering both morning and afternoon slots—plus the inclusion of gear and snacks, makes it a smart choice for travelers wanting a concise yet immersive winter outing without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This combo is ideal for adventurous travelers who love exploring with manageable hikes, stunning scenery, and guided stories. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a short, affordable winter experience that hits two parks and includes some of the Rockies’ most photogenic spots.

Travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes and don’t mind cold weather will find this tour rewarding. It’s also suitable for those who want a hands-on, small-group atmosphere with all logistics taken care of.

However, if you’re traveling with young children under 8 or have mobility challenges, this might not be suitable. Proper winter gear is a must, and guests should be ready for a short, scenic walk in icy conditions.

Final Thoughts

The Marble & Johnston Canyon Icewalk Combo provides a well-paced, visually stunning, and genuinely immersive winter experience. It captures the essence of the Rockies’ icy season without requiring intense hikes or technical skills. The inclusion of gear, snacks, and expert guides makes it a practical option for those seeking authentic, hassle-free adventure.

For the price, travelers get access to two breathtaking canyons, expert insights, and all the necessary equipment—making it a strong value for anyone wanting to see Alberta’s icy wilderness up close. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious explorer, this tour offers a chance to experience the Rockies’ winter magic in a comfortable, engaging way.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from Banff is included, with pickup points at the Mount Royal Hotel, and the guides will drive you to both canyons.

How long are the icewalks?
Each icewalk lasts about one hour, making the total activity time around four hours including breaks.

Are ice cleats provided?
Yes, professional ice cleats and trekking poles are included in the tour, which help with safety and stability on icy surfaces.

What should I wear?
Warm winter boots or hiking boots, a winter coat and pants, a hat, and gloves are essential. Proper gear is mandatory; if you’re unprepared, you may be turned back.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, children under 8 are not recommended for this tour, mainly due to the winter conditions and walking requirements.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The walks are considered easy, suitable for most able-bodied people comfortable in winter conditions. No technical skills are required.

Is the tour available year-round?
No, this tour is designed specifically for winter conditions, usually from late fall to early spring.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Mornings and afternoons are both available. Early winter mornings tend to be quieter, but midday can be sunnier and warmer.

Will I see waterfalls?
Yes, both Marble and Johnston Canyon feature waterfalls that are frozen in stunning formations, creating incredible photo opportunities.

This guided icewalk combo delivers a rewarding mix of scenery, ease, and adventure, making it a compelling choice for anyone eager to explore Alberta’s winter landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: