Banff: Grotto Canyon Icewalk – Canmore, Canada

EXPERIENCE

Enjoy the drive from Banff in a modern minibus after your friendly guide picks you up from the meeting point. You’ll take the scenic drive to Grotto Canyon in Canmore, a local’s secret. On arrival at the Grotto Canyon trailhead, your guide will show you how to put on ice cleats over your winter boots, as well as give you some tips on winter hiking. 

From here, you’ll start the moderate 2.1 kilometer hike along the frozen creek bed through the narrow canyon to the spectacular icefalls. Walk directly on the ice and on the creek bed floor for a unique view of the canyon. 

Your guide will point out the stunted pine forest and hidden ancient native pictographs, which were likely created by Hopi visitors from the Arizona region. Learn more about First Nation history in the Bow Valley. Warm up with hot chocolate and maple cookie snack before hiking back.

HIGHLIGHTS

Hike through Grotto Canyon on a frozen creek bed as you look up at the canyon walls
Your guide will point out the ancient native pictographs that are easily missed by the general public
Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and maple cookies while you admire the spectacular icefalls

Discover more exciting & fun things to do in Canmore