Calgary: Columbia Icefield Adventure, Skywalk and Peyto Lake Tour

Exploring the Rockies: Calgary’s Columbia Icefield Adventure, Skywalk, and Peyto Lake Tour

If you’re looking to soak in some of the most iconic sights of the Canadian Rockies without the hassle of planning each stop yourself, this full-day tour from Calgary offers a well-paced, insightful experience. For around $88, you’ll visit Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and Waterfowl Lake, with highlights like the Columbia Icefield and the Skywalk thrown in for good measure. It’s a long day—expect about 10 to 11 hours—but one packed with breathtaking scenery, engaging commentary, and photo opportunities that could fill an album.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the expert guides, like Jazz and Topu, who seem genuinely passionate about sharing their knowledge and making the day enjoyable. Also, the focus on authentic landscapes—from towering glaciers to vivid turquoise lakes—means you’ll leave with a true sense of Canada’s wild beauty. A minor consideration: because it’s a full-day commitment, it’s not for those who prefer a slow, relaxed pace or shorter excursions.

This tour suits adventurers eager to cover a lot of ground in one day, photographers keen to capture stunning vistas, and nature lovers who want a guided introduction to the Canadian Rockies’ highlights. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized trip that balances scenic stops with knowledgeable commentary, this could be just right.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Covers major sights like Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the Columbia Icefield in a single day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides make the journey informative and engaging, often adding personal touches like snapping photos.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vans or private cars ensure a smooth experience, although some reviews mention small groups or vehicle changes.
• Authentic Landscapes: Expect to see glaciers, turquoise lakes, and mountain views that leave a lasting impression.
• Long but Rewarding Day: About 10-11 hours, so be prepared for an early start and a full schedule.
• Value for Money: The price includes many stops and entry to key sites, making it a good deal for the experience offered.

A Deep Dive Into the Rockies: What to Expect

Starting early from Calgary (or your hotel in Banff or Canmore), the journey quickly reveals why the Canadian Rockies are so celebrated. The road is comfortable, with roundtrip transportation included, which means you’re free to sit back as a guide like Jazz or Topu shares fascinating tidbits about the region’s ecology and history. With a maximum of about 14 travelers, the group is small enough for personal interaction but large enough to maintain a lively atmosphere.

Herbert Lake: A Calm Beginning

Your first stop is Herbert Lake, a quiet spot perfect for stretching your legs and snapping some photos. Surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks, it’s a peaceful introduction to the scenery ahead. Many travelers mention how this stop’s tranquility sets the tone for the day, with Merlyn_M describing it as a “hidden gem” that offers breathtaking views.

Crowfoot Glacier: A Spectacle of Ice and Rock

Next, your group heads to Crowfoot Glacier, perched high above Bow Lake. It’s named after its shape—once resembling a three-toed crow’s foot—and offers a dramatic scene of ice and stone. Here, you’ll get about 20 minutes to marvel at this stunning glacier, taking in the sharp contrast of icy blue against the rugged mountain backdrop. Several reviews praise guides like Jas for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making even the brief stop both educational and awe-inspiring.

Bow Lake: The Perfect Photo Opportunity

As you continue along the Icefields Parkway, Bow Lake provides another striking view. Surrounded by glaciers and mountain peaks, it’s one of Banff’s most picturesque spots. You might find yourself just gazing at the clear waters, which reflect the snow-capped mountains. Expect about 30 minutes at this stop—more than enough time to soak in the scenery and maybe snap some postcards. Reviewers like Lisa_Y highlight how the long day was “worth the wait,” emphasizing the lake’s beauty.

Peyto Lake: The Iconic Viewpoint

Peyto Lake is likely the highlight for many visitors. Its wolf-head-shaped turquoise waters are instantly recognizable and frequently featured in travel photos. The tour includes a stop at a scenic viewpoint, where you can admire the lake from above, capturing stunning photos. In fact, Peyto Lake is among the most photographed lakes in the Rockies. Expect around 30 minutes here, giving you ample opportunity to take in the view and appreciate the vibrant color of the water fed by Peyto Glacier.

Peyto Glacier & Waterfowl Lakes

A quick walk to the Peyto Glacier viewpoint offers insight into its role as a water source for Peyto Lake. The tour also includes a visit to Waterfowl Lakes, a peaceful stop to appreciate the tranquility of glacier-fed waters surrounded by forested peaks. With only 10 minutes allocated, it’s a brief but restful pause, often commented on as a “hidden gem” by travelers.

Columbia Icefield & Glacial Adventure

The core of the day is the Columbia Icefield, where you’ll embark on a two-hour adventure. You can add an up-close experience on the Athabasca Glacier, which many reviewers say is the highlight of the trip. Although entry to the glacier is not included in the base tour price, many travelers find it well worth paying for the experience. Walking on a real glacier is an unforgettable thrill—most describe it as magical, with guides sharing insights about the glacier’s formation and current state.

The Skywalk: Walking on Glass Over the Valley

Next up is the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored platform extending over 900 feet over the Sunwapta Valley. It’s a heart-pumping experience and offers panoramic views beneath your feet. Expect about an hour here; it’s a highlight for many, especially those eager for a bit of adrenaline and stunning vistas. Some reviews note the platform’s impressive engineering, but also mention that tickets are purchased separately.

The Scenic Drive Along Icefields Parkway

The last major segment is a three-hour drive along the Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic routes connecting Banff and Jasper. This stretch is often called “a drive to remember,” with views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain ranges. Many travelers comment that even the drive itself is worth the trip, with Gurpreet and Daler praised for their knowledge and care.

Transportation and Group Size: What You Should Know

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, usually in a van or private car, which ensures comfort for a long day. However, a reviewer noted that a change from the promise of a full-size coach to a smaller vehicle could be inconvenient for larger groups, especially for those traveling together. The maximum group size is around 14, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere, which many travelers appreciate.

Entry Tickets and Additional Costs

While the tour price covers many stops, tickets for the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure and Skywalk need to be purchased separately at the Icefield gallery. This allows flexibility—if you’re on a budget, you can choose whether to indulge in these additional experiences. The tour guide often helps with planning and discounts, especially for residents, as some reviews mention.

Duration and Pacing

The day is quite full, with about 3-4 hours of total travel time. The itinerary is packed, and some travelers noted the long day from 7:30 AM to around 11 PM. If you thrive on seeing as much as possible and don’t mind a long day, this will suit you perfectly. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, it may feel a bit rushed, particularly at the longer stops.

Authentic Experiences: What Travelers Say

The reviews highlight several recurring themes:

• Knowledgeable Guides: Many praise their guides for being friendly, informative, and passionate—Jazz, Topu, Harsh, and Roco are all mentioned as making the experience special. One reviewer described Roco as professional and nice, noting how he knew what he was doing and made the glacier tour fun.
• Stunning Views: Multiple comments emphasize how breathtaking the scenery is—whether it’s the glaciers, lakes, or mountain vistas. A traveler appreciated the photos taken by guides, “cherished forever,” highlighting the personal touches guides bring.
• Good Value: Considering the number of sites visited and the included insights, most see the tour as offering good value for money. The mix of transportation, stops, and experiences justifies the price for many.
• Long Day: Some reviews mention the day’s length, with one saying it lasted from 7:30 AM to 11 PM. While many found it worth it, others felt the schedule could be tiring, especially with long lines at the glacier.

Notable Concerns

A few reviewers experienced small hiccups, such as the change in vehicle size or delays, but these did not overshadow the overall positive impressions. One traveler expressed disappointment about the late bus arrival and lack of Wi-Fi, which shows that planning and communication are key considerations.

In Summary: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re eager to cover a lot of ground in a single day, love stunning mountain scenery and glacial marvels, and don’t mind a full, sometimes tiring schedule, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who want the insider knowledge of guides and enjoy guided convenience—no need to worry about navigating or planning.

However, if you prefer a leisurely pace, shorter trips, or are sensitive to long days, you might want to consider alternatives or shorter excursions. The tour’s success hinges on your enthusiasm for scenic drives and outdoor adventure, as well as your appreciation for experienced guides who can enrich your experience with stories and tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What locations are visited on this tour?
You’ll visit Herbert Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, Peyto Glacier, Waterfowl Lakes, the Columbia Icefield, and the Skywalk, along the Icefields Parkway.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, starting early in the morning and ending late at night.

Are entrance tickets included?
Entry to the Columbia Icefield Glacier (by walk) is included, but tickets for the Icefield Adventure and Skywalk are purchased separately at the Icefield gallery.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, either a van or private car. Some reviews note vehicle changes, so check if you prefer a larger coach.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of around 14 travelers, creating a friendly and intimate atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The stops at Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the glaciers offer fantastic photo opportunities, often praised by travelers for their stunning vistas.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Most stops are brief, and walking is minimal, but expect a long day on your feet and in the vehicle. The glacier walk and Skywalk may require some standing or light walking.

What should I bring?
Layers of clothing, camera gear, water, and snacks. Some stops can be windy or cool, even in summer.

Can I book additional experiences?
Yes, the glacier walk and Skywalk are extra, but guides often assist in purchasing tickets and may offer discounts.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

This full-day adventure showcases the best of the Canadian Rockies with minimal fuss. You’ll get to see iconic lakes, glaciers, and mountain vistas with the help of eager, knowledgeable guides. It’s especially good for travelers who want a rundown and don’t mind a long day of scenic driving and sightseeing. If you’re after authentic landscapes and value-packed experiences, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to bring your patience—and your camera.

Whether you’re on your first visit or returning for another trip, the sights you’ll see here will stay in your memory long after you’ve left the Rockies.