Ink Pots via Moose Meadows

This is the crowd‑dodging way to reach the Ink Pots. Starting from the small Moose Meadows parking off the Bow Valley Parkway, you’ll climb a steady, forested trail that feels blissfully removed from the Johnston Canyon catwalks. It’s an out‑and‑back of about 7.5 miles total (12 km return) with a moderate, rolling grade and a more natural tread—no railings, no catwalks, just classic forest singletrack.

The payoff is the Ink Pots: a cluster of cold mineral springs set in open meadows with mountain views. Watch the sand “boil” where springs bubble up, and notice how pools with slower flow look the most vividly blue‑green thanks to mineral settling. In summer, the meadow pops with wildflowers; in winter it’s serene and snow‑blanketed, with the pools appearing darker against frosted peaks.

Expect a quieter hike than the canyon route, but also a bit more work—there’s steady climbing and a few undulations before the trail merges with the Johnston Canyon route near the end. Wayfinding is straightforward with clear signage. Benches at the Ink Pots make it an easy lunch spot, but don’t expect amenities along the way.

Best time to hike: Summer for the most vibrant pool colors and wildflowers; shoulder seasons for fewer people and good wildlife‑track spotting; winter for a peaceful, snowy landscape (it can be icy and cold). Go early or on weekdays for maximum solitude, and bring layers—the meadow can feel windy and chilly after the climb.

Logistics that matter: Park at Moose Meadows (smaller, quieter lot). There are toilets and water only at the Johnston Canyon parking, not at Moose Meadows. Dogs are allowed on leash; no bikes on this trail. If you want variety, the Moose Meadows and Johnston Canyon trailheads are roughly 1.8–2 km apart along the Parkway, so you can go up one and down the other, then walk the road to your car or shuttle two vehicles.

A quick bit of context as you look around: the springs rise through glacial gravels rich in minerals (calcium carbonate helps tint those hues). Johnston Creek below takes its name from an 1880s prospector—nice trivia to share while you watch the rings pulse across the sandy pool bottoms.