Johnston Canyon The Ink Pots, and Moose Meadows (9/8/2018)

Adapted from Classic Hikes in the Canadian Rockies.

Elevation Gain: 330m
Approximate Distance: 12 km

Note: We will be hiking at a relaxed pace and taking short breaks as needed.

People have been visiting Johnston Canyon since the prospector it was named for staked a claim here in the 1880s. Because the features of interest are next to the trail, this is an excellent outing for poor weather days. You may see mule deer, red squirrels, porcupines, gray jays, dippers and common ravens. Johnston Canyon is one of the three known nesting sites for black swifts. The Johnston Creek valley near the Ink Pots is frequented by coyotes, wolves, grizzly bears and elk.

We will follow the popular trail through Johnston Canyon, stopping at the Lower Falls and Upper Falls before heading up to the Ink Pots. The Ink Pots are the outlets of seven cold mineral springs, fed by rainwater and snowmelt that has percolated into the surrounding bedrock. Two of the springs run murky due to the sediments disturbed by the rising water - hence the name Ink Pots. It is extremely important that we stick to the trail here, as the natural vegetation is fragile and cannot withstand constant trampling.

We'll return via Moose Meadows (to avoid the crowds in the canyon). We will have to walk the road for 1.4 km to get back to our cars.

We will stop off in Canmore for a beverage or quick meal, most probably at the Rose and Crown

I may give priority to those willing to drive