From Banff: Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk

Imagine a full day dedicated to chasing some of Canada’s most breathtaking scenery—glaciers, mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and sweeping vistas. This tour from Banff, costing around $273 per person and lasting roughly 10 hours, packs in spectacular stops, adventure, and plenty of opportunities for genuine awe. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll get to walk on a 25,000-year-old glacier, ride in a massive Ice Explorer onto Athabasca Glacier, and stand on a thrilling glass-floored Skywalk overlooking Sunwapta Valley.

What we love most? First, the chance to walk on a glacier—a rare, tangible connection to the power of nature—and second, the stunning panoramic views from the Skywalk. These moments are worth every penny. The only thing to consider is the long bus ride, which can feel a bit tiring, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions. However, if you’re eager to see the iconic Canadian Rockies with minimal planning, this trip offers excellent value and authentic experiences, perfect for nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, or anyone craving a scenic adventure.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery from start to finish, including lakes, glaciers, and mountain peaks.
• Unique glacier experience with a ride in an all-terrain Ice Explorer and walking on 25,000-year-old ice.
• Stunning views from the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, perched on the side of the Sunwapta Valley.
• Expert guides share fascinating stories about the landscape, wildlife, and glaciers shaping the region.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off in Banff, making logistics simple.
• Ideal for those interested in natural wonders, scenic photography, and accessible adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting from Banff: Comfortable and Convenient

The day begins with hotel pickup in Banff, making it easy to leave the driving and planning to your guide. The bus itself is comfortable, and according to travelers, the stops along the way break up the long ride with scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities. As one reviewer noted, “The long bus ride was broken up with frequent photo or comfort stops.” This thoughtful pacing ensures you’re not overwhelmed and can truly enjoy each view.

Scenic Drive along the Icefields Parkway

The route along The Icefields Parkway is a highlight in itself. You’ll glide past some of the most iconic sights in the Rockies, including turquoise Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier. These stops aren’t just photo ops—they’re windows into the landscape’s incredible history. Many travelers mention how awe-inspiring these vistas are, with comments like, “Enjoy spectacular vistas over the Canadian Rockies, turquoise lakes, and numerous glaciers.” This drive alone is a bucket-list moment, showcasing the rugged beauty of the region.

Visiting Athabasca Glacier and the Ice Explorer Ride

The centerpiece of this tour is the visit to Athabasca Glacier, one of the “six toes” of the Columbia Icefield. You’ll board a massive all-terrain Ice Explorer—a rugged vehicle built to handle the icy terrain—and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime ride directly onto the glacier. This is where the experience becomes tangible: you’re literally stepping onto a 25,000-year-old sheet of ice.

One review captures the magic: “Fascinating experience on the glacier! Long bus ride was broken up with frequent photo or comfort stops. Refreshments along the way and huge buffet lunch upon arrival at icefield.” Later, you’ll have around 20 minutes to walk on the glacier, where you can sip from virgin streams running from the ice—a rare opportunity to connect physically with this ancient landscape.

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Lunch at Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre

After the glacier adventure, a hot buffet lunch is served at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. It’s a nice break from the outdoor cold and a chance to refuel before the next activity. The buffet format offers variety, and many travelers appreciated the well-organized meal service, describing it as “delicious” and “ample,” especially after a morning of exertion.

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk

Post-lunch, the tour continues with the Skywalk, a glass-floored platform perched on the side of a cliff overlooking the Sunwapta Valley. This platform stretches out for breathtaking views of mountains, waterfalls, and rivers below. As one reviewer put it, “The Skywalk was quite a victory! Great day.” The thrill of standing on clear glass with the valley hundreds of meters below is palpable, and the views are as stunning as promised. Weather can affect the experience slightly, as the audio devices are unavailable when it rains, but even in poor weather, the scenery remains impressive.

Wildlife and Landscape

Throughout the journey, your guide shares stories about local wildlife, geology, and how glaciers have carved the landscape. This contextual storytelling makes the scenery more meaningful, helping you understand the forces that shaped this rugged terrain. Expect to see pristine lakes, waterfalls, and breathtaking peaks, with opportunities for wildlife sightings along the way.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple travelers praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Dave and Andre, saying, “Guide and driver both very engaging” and “Andre our tour guide was super friendly.” They also highlight the seamless organization—from pickups to meals—and the overall value of the experience. One traveler summarized, “We had an amazing day. Everything was seamless and so well organized.”

Considerations and Practical Tips

The tour is not suitable for those with limited mobility or wheelchair users, due to the physical demands of walking on glaciers and uneven terrain. Bring warm layers, especially since glacier temperatures are much cooler than in Banff, and waterproof shoes and gloves are recommended. The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Keep in mind the long bus ride, which might be tiring for some, but the stops and scenery help break it up nicely.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $273, this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with memorable moments that are hard to replicate independently. The combined scenic drives, glacier walk, Ice Explorer ride, and Skywalk are all included, plus a hot buffet lunch and expert guides. For those looking to make the most of their limited time in Alberta, this is a convenient way to see a wide array of iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

Authenticity and Learning

One of the best parts is the guided storytelling, which turns a sightseeing trip into an educational experience. You’ll learn how glaciers have shaped the land and how local wildlife survives in this extreme environment. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge elevate the whole day, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

Scenic Accessibility

While some might find the length of the day challenging, the tour’s stops at major viewpoints ensure you get plenty of photo-worthy moments without excessive walking. The comfort of hotel pickup and drop-off also adds to the convenience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers eager to see the iconic landscapes of the Rockies, photographers looking for stunning vistas, and adventure seekers wanting to walk on a glacier. It’s also ideal for those who prefer guided tours that handle logistics and provide insightful commentary. If you’re short on time but want a rundown of the Columbia Icefield region, this tour delivers.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those sensitive to long bus rides may want to consider alternatives. The tour’s physical activities, especially walking on ice and uneven terrain, make it less suitable for some.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and drop-off.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Banff, a hot buffet lunch, Ice Explorer and Skywalk tickets, light onboard snacks, and a knowledgeable guide.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best suited for those who can comfortably handle a full day of sightseeing and walking on glaciers. It’s not recommended for those with limited mobility.

What should I bring?
Comfortable, waterproof shoes, gloves, warm layers, and a windbreaker. Don’t forget a bottle for glacier water and a camera for the views.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

Final Thoughts

This Columbia Icefield tour from Banff offers a well-rounded, authentic Canadian Rockies experience packed with scenic beauty, adventure, and education. It’s particularly suited for travelers eager to stand on ancient ice, enjoy breathtaking views from the Skywalk, and learn from guides passionate about the landscape. While the long day and physical demands might not suit everyone, those who join will leave with memories that last a lifetime—think of it as a chance to touch the very essence of what makes this region so remarkable.

For anyone with a curiosity about glaciers, mountain landscapes, and wild, rugged environments, this tour strikes a fine balance between accessibility and adventure, making it a true highlight of a trip to Alberta.

You can check availability for your dates here: