Past the waterfalls through the Johnson Canyon in an untouched mountain valley one can find the Ink Pots. The waterfalls are some of the most popular walks in Banff National Park and the trail is well maintained, but we skipped all that and took the second path located at Moose Meadows a few kilometers up the road from the main parking lot. The journey to the Ink Pots is about an 11 km round trip so while still well traveled it isn't for your average tourist.

The trail begins in a forest, all you see are trees. It was a relatively easy hike without too many difficult areas although the snow made some parts slippery when wet. We brought a few hiking poles just in case but since it was the end of the season, late October crampons weren't required.

Paths like these are so relaxing, until you get to the ascent. It was a couple hundred meters which isn't that difficult and the trail was well-marked. You wouldn't know you were in the mountains the first half of the way there.

Just a mossy forest, a perfect habitat for deer, elk, moose, bears and more.

As we walked further up, there were more signs that winter was coming. We went here late in the season because it wasn't that steep and we wanted to avoid the crowds. There were just a few other footprints in the snow.

When you get to the valley with the Ink Pots the view is nothing short of rewarding. Those Rocky Mountain peaks are 2900m or higher. Mystic Peak, Mount Ishabel and more.

The Ink Pots are milky green pools that fill at various speeds giving a unique look to each one. They aren't hot springs but they are mineral springs, no swimming is allowed and don't throw stuff in the water. They are for your viewing pleasure only!

There was one other group there, then one showed up as we were leaving. They build some near bridges and paths around the ink pots and they do look inviting. We will be going back as this is a hike one can do again and again!

All pictures taken with an s22 or iphone13
Johnston Creek is located in the heart of Banff national park, you need a park pass, decent shoes and bear spray.