Icefield: Bow Lake, Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake Day Tour

Discover the Canadian Rockies on a full-day adventure through some of Alberta’s most breathtaking sights. For $114 per person, you’ll enjoy a 9 to 11-hour journey along the famous Icefields Parkway, visiting iconic spots like Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the Columbia Icefield. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is a fantastic way to see the rugged beauty of Jasper and Banff National Parks, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and even an optional walk on a 25,000-year-old glacier.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly it combines spectacular scenery with informative commentary, making every stop more meaningful. Plus, the chance to walk on the Athabasca Glacier (for a small extra fee) adds a hands-on element that turns a sightseeing day into an unforgettable adventure. The only consideration? The tour’s timing depends on weather and road conditions, so flexibility is key.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, photography, and learning about glaciers and mountains. If you’re someone who appreciates guided commentary that explains what you’re seeing, and if you’re prepared for a long day on the road, you’ll find this is an excellent value for experiencing some of Canada’s most scenic landscapes.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenic Drive: The Icefields Parkway offers awe-inspiring views of mountains, lakes, and glaciers.
• Iconic Stops: Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and Columbia Icefield are highlights with breathtaking photo opportunities.
• Optional Glacier Walk: Walk on the Athabasca Glacier, providing a tangible connection to the ice age.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their kindness and knowledge, making the trip both enjoyable and educational.
• Flexible Experience: The tour is weather-dependent, with alternative stops in case of closures.
• Value for Money: Combining transportation, park fees, and expert guiding, the price offers solid value for a full day of exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins with the Scenic Drive

Traveling along the Icefields Parkway, you’ll be treated to one of the world’s most beautiful drives. This 232-kilometer stretch connects Banff and Jasper National Parks, offering views that are often described as postcard-perfect. Expect to see turquoise lakes, towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. The road itself is well-maintained and comfortable, with plenty of stops for photos and short walks.

Peyto Lake: The Fox-Shaped Marvel

Your first major stop is likely Peyto Lake, famous for its vivid turquoise color and the wolf-like shape of its outline. From the viewpoint, you’ll see a wide, sweeping view of the glacier-fed lake, nestled among forested peaks. The reflection of the surrounding mountains on the water creates a picture-perfect scene. The lake’s unique shape and color make it one of the most iconic views in the Rockies.

One traveler commented, “The view was breathtaking, and the shape of Peyto Lake really looks like a fox, which makes it unforgettable.” You’ll want to have your camera ready here, but also take a moment to just breathe in the scenery.

Bow Lake: A Reflection of Serenity

Next, the tour takes you to Bow Lake, a serene glacier-fed body of water that reflects the Crowfoot Mountains perfectly—if the weather allows. The lake’s surface offers a peaceful, mirror-like quality, making it a favorite spot for photography. The lake is also the source of the Bow River, which flows through Calgary, giving you a sense of the interconnectedness of this landscape.

The reviews mention that “we loved the way the mountains reflected on Bow Lake’s surface,” which really highlights the tranquil beauty of this stop. It’s an ideal place to stretch your legs and absorb the quiet majesty of the Rockies.

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Columbia Icefield: A Glacial Wonder

The Columbia Icefield is the highlight for many travelers. It’s one of the largest ice fields south of the Arctic Circle, covering roughly 325 square kilometers. Here, you can opt to hop onto an Ice Explorer—a specialized vehicle that takes you onto the glacier itself for a close-up look at the ancient ice (additional fee required). Alternatively, you can enjoy the views from the visitor center.

One review notes, “The guide was kind and amazing. We saw the best views, and the experience of walking on the glacier was unforgettable.” The glacier’s surface is rugged and shimmering, giving you a real sense of the ice age. The tour also offers commentary that explains how climate change is affecting glaciers, adding an educational touch.

Crowfoot Glacier: An Evolving Ice Formation

As part of the trip, you’ll see the Crowfoot Glacier, named for its distinctive shape. It’s a haunting reminder of climate change, as one of its “toes” has receded significantly. This contrast between the glacier’s impressive past and its present state can be a poignant moment for travelers, making you reflect on the ongoing environmental changes.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

The tour notes that stop times and sightseeing points are subject to weather and road conditions. If a specific sight is inaccessible, guides will replace it with an alternative, ensuring that your day remains packed with beauty. This flexibility is practical but means that expecting perfect weather is unrealistic—be prepared for variable conditions, especially in winter or early spring.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour includes comfortable transportation, usually in a small to medium-sized bus with an English-speaking guide. The duration is 9 to 11 hours, typically starting in the morning, so you’ll want to be ready for a long but rewarding day. You’re allowed one piece of carry-on luggage, with extra charges for additional baggage, so pack efficiently.

What Travelers Love

Reviews frequently praise the guides, with one traveler stating, “The guide was kind and amazing. We were blessed with great weather and saw the best views.” The professionalism and friendliness of the guides make the long day more enjoyable. Reviewers also highlight the stunning scenery—many say it exceeded expectations.

What Could Be Better

The main consideration is that the tour is weather-dependent, so if conditions are poor, some stops may be canceled or changed. Also, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, which is important for accessibility planning.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those curious about glaciers and mountain landscapes. It’s perfect if you want a guided day that covers key sights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. If you’re comfortable with a long day on the road and are eager to see some of Canada’s most iconic scenery, this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a well-organized, scenic, and educational day, this tour delivers plenty of value. The combination of spectacular vistas, expert guides, and the chance to walk on a glacier makes it a memorable choice. While it’s weather-dependent and involves a full day, the experience of seeing Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the Columbia Icefield up close is truly special.

If you’re looking for a guided tour that balances natural beauty with informative commentary, this is a solid pick. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to relax, enjoy the scenery, and learn a bit along the way.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 11 hours, usually starting in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, a friendly guide, and the national park entry fee. You can bring one carry-on-sized bag without extra charge.

Can I walk on the glacier?
Yes, there is an optional glacier walk on the Athabasca Glacier available for an additional fee, which many travelers find unforgettable.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, non-slip footwear, sunscreen, and sun protection, as the UV can be intense at high altitudes and on the ice.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and is better suited for older children and adults who can handle a full day of sightseeing and walking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Stops and sightseeing points are weather-dependent. If a site is closed, guides will replace it with an alternative, ensuring your day remains full of scenic views.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine taste of the Canadian Rockies’ best scenery—perfect for those who want a guided, comfortable day exploring iconic lakes, glaciers, and mountain vistas. With knowledgeable guides, flexible options, and some of the most photogenic spots in the world, it’s a memorable way to experience Alberta’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: