A Banff Spring, Banff National Park Alberta, Canada

## Overview Tucked along the scenic Highway 1A corridor in Banff National Park, Alberta, this natural spring offers visitors a chance to collect fresh mountain water flowing from the Canadian Rockies. Located just before the Johnston Canyon turnoff, the spring emerges from the limestone-rich geology that defines much of Banff National Park — a landscape shaped by ancient seas and millions of years of tectonic uplift. The water flows steadily from a natural outlet, and visitors have historically used this spot as a convenient roadside source for filling bottles. Banff National Park sits within the traditional territories of several Indigenous peoples, including the Stoney Nakoda, Blackfoot, and Ktunaxa Nations, who have long valued the region's natural springs and waterways. The park's many mineral and freshwater springs were a key reason for its establishment in 1885, making it Canada's first national park. While this particular spring has been used by locals and travelers as a drinking water source, water quality can vary with season and conditions, and it has not been officially tested or certified as potable. ## Directions 1. **Start in the town of Banff**, heading west. 2. **Take Highway 1A** (the Bow Valley Parkway) westbound from Banff. 3. **Follow Highway 1A for approximately 20 km** (~12 miles) toward Johnston Canyon. 4. **Watch for the Johnston Canyon turnoff** — just before the road splits at the turnoff, look to your **right-hand side** for the spring. 5. The spring is visible from the road and accessible from a small pullover area. **GPS Coordinates:** 51.168579, -115.693932 (N 51° 10.182′, W 115° 41.854′) ## What to Expect The spring flows from a natural outlet along the roadside, with a small ledge where you can place a bottle to catch the water. The flow is steady enough to fill containers, though patience may be needed for larger volumes. A practical tip from previous visitors: bring a plastic bottle with a handle to collect the water easily, then transfer it into glass bottles for storage if preferred. The surrounding area is classic Banff scenery — dense coniferous forest, towering peaks, and the winding Bow Valley Parkway, which is one of the most scenic drives in the Canadian Rockies. The nearby Johnston Canyon trail is one of the park's most popular hikes, featuring dramatic waterfalls and ink pots, making this spring a convenient stop on a day of exploration. Keep in mind that you are in Banff National Park, so a valid Parks Canada pass is required for your vehicle. Wildlife is common along Highway 1A — watch for elk, deer, and occasionally bears near the roadside. Seasonal road closures or restrictions may apply on the Bow Valley Parkway, particularly in spring and early summer when Parks Canada implements wildlife management closures. Check current conditions with Parks Canada before your visit. The spring's hours of availability and seasonal flow patterns are not officially documented, so it's best to visit during warmer months (May through October) when access along Highway 1A is most reliable.