Johnston Canyon Lower Falls - ADA

Starting from the eastern parking lot, the trail bridges the river and connects to the lodge parking lot, beginning an easy climb through the forest towards the river that the trail will closely follow for much of the hike. There is plenty of shade, as the majority of the trail is forested. In many areas, the trail overhangs the river on catwalks following the cliffsides, giving picturesque views of the canyon, the river, and smaller waterfalls and rapids. There are a few section where the cliffs overhang the catwalks or cause them to narrow, so please be respectful to returning hikers and take turns navigating these sections. Near the waterfall, the trail forks with one path leading towards the Johnston Canyon Upper Falls and the other continuing to the Lower Falls. The intersection is clearly signed. Continuing to the Lower Falls brings you to a viewpoint to take in the falls, and a bridge crossing over the river. Once you cross the bridge, you can enter a tunnel in the cliff face which will take you directly in front of the falls. The tunnel is low and narrow, allowing only one crouching person at a time, and the rocks may be slippery with spray, so proceed with caution. You may then head back to the parking lot, or continue upwards towards Johnston Canyon Upper Falls and the Ink Pots.