Johnston Canyon trail closed after suspected drowning near Lower Falls
Johnston Canyon trail and day-use area in Banff National Park closed after a suspected drowning; RCMP are investigating while Parks Canada urges the public to avoid the site.
The Johnston Canyon trail and adjacent day‑use area in Banff National Park have been closed following a suspected drowning near the Lower Falls, Parks Canada confirmed Saturday. Witnesses and emergency responders were on scene, and Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers have taken the lead in the ongoing investigation.
Closure of Johnston Canyon Trail
Parks Canada announced the closure of the trail and day‑use area around Johnston Canyon late Saturday, citing an active investigation at the Lower Falls. The agency asked visitors to respect closure signs and barriers while responders complete their work.
The closure affects one of Banff’s most frequented short hikes, with rangers placing physical barriers and signage at access points to prevent public entry. Parks Canada said it will provide updates once the area has been declared safe and reopened to visitors.
Incident near Lower Falls
The suspected drowning occurred in the vicinity of the canyon’s Lower Falls, a narrow, fast‑moving stretch of water popular with sightseers. Park officials described the incident as a fatality under investigation, and they declined to release further personal details out of respect for the family.
Local staff and first responders attended the scene, and early reports indicate that emergency services conducted on‑site assessments before handing the matter to RCMP investigators. No additional information about the victim’s identity or the precise circumstances has been released.
RCMP leads investigation
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police have assumed responsibility for investigating the circumstances surrounding the suspected drowning. RCMP investigators will determine whether any criminal activity, negligence, or other factors contributed to the incident.
Police protocols in such cases typically include witness interviews, scene examination, and coordination with coroner services where required. The RCMP emphasized that members of the public should avoid the area to preserve scene integrity and allow investigators to work efficiently.
Rescue and emergency response
Park staff coordinated with emergency responders to secure the scene and provide assistance following the incident. First responders routinely face challenging conditions in canyon areas where terrain, water flow, and weather can complicate operations.
Authorities also reminded recreational users that waterfall areas can be deceptively hazardous, with slippery rock, strong currents, and cold water temperature increasing the risk of accidents. Visitors were urged to stay on designated trails and viewing platforms and to follow posted warnings.
Parks Canada statement and condolences
In a brief statement, Parks Canada extended “sincere condolences to the individual’s family and loved ones” and said it would not release further details at this time. The agency reiterated that its priority is the safety of visitors, staff, and responders during the investigation.
Parks Canada committed to issuing public updates when the investigation concludes and the trail is safe to reopen. It encouraged anyone with information about the incident to contact the RCMP to assist investigators.
Visitor access and park operations
The temporary closure is likely to disrupt visitor plans in and around Johnston Canyon, which attracts large numbers of day hikers and sightseers, especially during spring and summer. Park officials advised the public to consult Parks Canada notices and local park staff for alternative routes and current conditions.
Banff National Park continues to operate numerous other trails and day‑use areas, but visitors should expect increased enforcement and monitoring near sensitive zones until the investigation is complete. Businesses and tour operators that rely on canyon access were asked to adjust itineraries and inform clients of the closure.
The investigation remains active and details are limited as authorities continue their work. Parks Canada and the RCMP will provide further information when appropriate, and officials again asked the public to respect the closure and avoid the Johnston Canyon Lower Falls area until it is reopened.
