With a chinook forecast, this trip was deliberately chosen to be mostly in the trees. I think it was a wise decision as near Lac des Arcs, my car was buffeted by a strong west wind. However it was calm at the Johnston's Canyon parking lot with a temperature just below freezing at 9.30am. It only warmed up to +2c by our finish at 2.00pm. In between we enjoyed a very nice walk on compact snow with interesting conversation and canyon views to the Ink Pots and back.

Johnston's Canyon near the Lower Falls

Johnston's Canyon near the Upper Falls

Since my previous trip here, which may have been in 1996, the trail has been improved considerably. They were many signs about keeping >2 metre apart, but it wasn't busy today. The Canyon was rather pretty with interesting icicles and other formations. Four of us wore micro-spikes for most of the trip while Bob only wore them on descent. They were re-assuring.

Ice Formations in Johnston's Canyon

We reached the Ink Pots before 12 noon but didn't linger in the cold wind, preferring to take a short (20 min?) lunch break back in the trees. Not much else to say. I think we all enjoyed seeing the Canyon with the snow/ice and were able to take our time without the pressure of crowds. Conversation flowed. It was a very pleasant day.

Ramblers on the Johnston's Canyon Trail

Stats: 12km, 315m (Joe's GPS gave ~500m) in 4:30 hrs.

Participants: Joe,David,Bob,Janet,Barb.