Calgary Banff: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, and Lakes DayTour

Calgary Banff: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, and Lakes DayTour

Imagine a day spent wandering among spectacular mountain vistas, turquoise lakes, and glaciers in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. For just $68 per person, this full-day adventure takes you from Calgary or Banff to some of the most iconic natural sights in Alberta. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit Columbia Icefield, walk on the Skywalk, and explore lakes like Peyto, Bow, and Waterfowl—all in roughly 11 hours.

What we love most? First, the Skywalk’s glass floor over Sunwapta Valley offers a thrill and a perfect photo opportunity. Second, the stops at Peyto Lake and Bow Lake showcase some of the most striking scenery, with their vivid waters and dramatic mountain backdrops. A potential consideration is that Columbia Icefield and Skywalk tickets are not included in the base price, so if you want to experience the Ice Explorer or Skywalk, you’ll need to buy those separately.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground in one day and aren’t bothered by a longer bus ride. It suits those who appreciate beautiful scenery, informative guides, and well-organized itineraries. Families, group travelers, and adventure-lovers will find plenty to enjoy, especially with guides like Ashish, who are praised for making sure everyone has a memorable time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Waterfowl Lake, Lake Louise, and Banff Town.
• Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable hosts like Ashish who make the trip engaging and fun.
• Flexible options: You can reserve your spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Scenic highlights: Expect breathtaking views, dramatic glaciers, and vibrant lakes.
• Value for money: At $68, it covers transportation, guiding, and access to many top sights.
• Limited inclusions: Skywalk and Ice Explorer tickets are extra, so budget accordingly if those are on your must-do list.

A Thorough Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins early, with pickup from designated locations in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff. The most common meeting point is the Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown at 8:00 AM, with others in Canmore and Banff later in the morning. The use of a bus or van means you’re traveling comfortably, and the small group size (around 12 people, based on reviews) keeps the atmosphere intimate and friendly. We’ve read reviews praising the guides for punctuality, helpfulness, and sharing interesting facts along the route.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Experience

First stop: Columbia Icefield. As you arrive, you’ll have the chance to explore the largest icefield in the Rocky Mountains. While tickets for the Ice Explorer are optional and purchased separately, many groups opt for the glacier tour to get closer to the Athabasca Glacier. The views are enormous, and you can witness how glaciers have slowly shrunk over the years—a sobering reminder of climate change.

Next, the Skywalk. This glass-floored observation platform extends 280 meters over the Sunwapta Valley, offering views that make your stomach flutter. From here, you’ll see the vast Athabasca Glacier and the surrounding peaks. Many reviewers highlight how guides like Ashish make sure everyone is comfortable and get great photos. Keep in mind, Skywalk tickets are extra, but many find the experience worth the additional cost.

Onward to the stunning lakes. Peyto Lake is a highlight—its shape resembles a wolf’s head, and the vibrant turquoise water is truly eye-catching. Bow Lake provides a quieter, equally beautiful spot with mountain reflections perfect for photos. Waterfowl Lake offers a peaceful setting with remarkable views of Crowfoot Glacier nearby.

Additional stops include Tangle Creek Falls, Mistaya Canyon, and Herbert Lake—all small but beautiful places that make for perfect photo breaks. Many travelers comment on how Ashish made sure to stop at all the best viewpoints and even went out of his way to find wildlife and scenic spots.

Finally, Lake Louise and Banff Town. In winter, you might only get about 30 minutes at Lake Louise, but in summer, the time can stretch to enjoy the iconic Fairmont Chateau, paddle boats, or just soaking in the mountain views. Banff Town itself offers charming shops, cafes, and a chance to stretch your legs before heading back.

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The Guide and Group Experience

Throughout the day, guides like Ashish are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness. We’ve seen comments like “he made the trip fun and entertaining” and “he accommodated all our needs,” which makes a big difference on a long day. The small group size means more personal attention and fewer crowds, allowing for more flexibility and better photo opportunities.

Practicalities and Value

At $68, this tour offers a lot of value—transportation, guiding, and access to many iconic spots. However, if you’re eager to walk on the glacier or visit the Skywalk, you’ll need to purchase those tickets separately, which can add to the cost. Many reviews mention that the trip is well-organized, with smooth logistics and punctual pickups. The tour is designed to maximize sightseeing while minimizing long bus rides, and most travelers agree that the scenery justifies the time spent.

What to Bring and Consider

• Dress in layers: Weather in the mountains can change rapidly—warm in the sun, chilly in the shade, especially at high altitudes.
• Bring a camera: The views are breathtaking, and you’ll want plenty of photos.
• Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing—comfortable shoes, water, and snacks are recommended.
• The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or heart problems—some stops involve walking or standing at high elevations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers eager to see multiple iconic spots in one day, especially if you prefer guided tours with knowledgeable hosts. Families and groups who enjoy photo opportunities and scenic viewpoints will appreciate the stops at Peyto and Bow Lakes, as well as the glacier views. If you’re traveling from Calgary or Banff and want a cost-effective, well-organized way to explore the Rockies, this tour fits the bill nicely.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a comprehensive taste of the Canadian Rockies, combining glacier adventures, breathtaking lakes, and a glass skywalk—all in a single day. The value is excellent, especially considering the expert guides who make the trip informative and fun. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to maximize their Rockies experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

The standout features—the Skywalk’s thrill and Peyto Lake’s striking beauty—make this a memorable outing. The only extra costs are for specific tickets like Ice Explorer or Skywalk entry, so budget accordingly. Most reviewers agree that the guides’ friendliness and extensive knowledge elevate the experience, making the long day enjoyable rather than tiring.

This tour is best suited for active, curious travelers who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor vistas, and a bit of adventure. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, authentic Rockies experience with a friendly guide, this will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQs

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup starts early in Calgary at 8:00 AM, and later in Canmore and Banff. Make sure to be ready on time to keep the schedule on track.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or lunch to enjoy at some of the scenic stops.

Can I buy Skywalk and Ice Explorer tickets on the day of the tour?
Tickets for the Skywalk and Ice Explorer are not included in the price, and you’ll need to purchase them separately if you wish to experience these attractions.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or heart problems, as some stops involve walking or high-altitude viewing.

How long is the drive between locations?
The tour involves a long day on the bus, with plenty of scenic stops. The total duration is about 11 hours, with some time spent traveling between sites.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring lakes and viewpoints.

Will we see wildlife?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, many reviews mention guides making extra stops to look for bears or other animals, adding to the adventure.

Does the tour run year-round?
Availability depends on the season; in winter, the tour visits Lake Louise for about 30 minutes, while in summer, there’s more time for exploration. Check the current schedule when booking.

This full-day tour from Calgary to the Rockies offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and expert guidance. Perfect for those wanting to see the highlights in a single, well-organized day.

You can check availability for your dates here: