Calgary: Columbia Icefield & Bow Lake & Peyto Lake

Taking a day trip to the Columbia Icefield and its surrounding highlights offers a fascinating glimpse into the rugged beauty of Alberta’s mountains. For $107 per person, you’ll spend about 11 to 12 hours exploring some of Canada’s most iconic sights with a small group limited to just 11 travelers. Guides like Liam or Sara make the journey informative and personable, enriching the experience with their local knowledge and friendly demeanor.

What we really like about this tour is how close you get to the glaciers, with the Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier** offering an unforgettable thrill. Plus, the chance to take in Peyto Lake from above provides a view that’s hard to beat. The relaxed lunch stop at Saskatchewan River Crossing, where mountain vistas are constantly in view, adds to the overall enjoyment.

A possible downside? The entire day is packed with activity, so if you’re not keen on long hours or chilly mountain air, it might feel a bit demanding. However, this tour suits those eager to experience the raw beauty of the Rockies with minimal hassle, thanks to convenient pickups and all-inclusive logistics.

If you’re craving an authentic taste of the Canadian Rockies’ most celebrated sights, this tour is especially well-suited for nature lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a comprehensive, small-group experience that balances adventure with comfort.

Key Points

• Unique Glacial Experience: Ride an Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier for a truly memorable adventure.
• Scenic Stops: Enjoy breathtaking views of Peyto Lake and Bow Lake, with photo stops that capture the vibrant colors of these natural wonders.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff makes travel easy, and small-group sizes ensure a more personal experience.
• Educational Insight: Guides share interesting facts about glaciers and mountain landscapes, enriching your understanding of the environment.
• Value for Money: All major park fees, Wi-Fi, and professional photos are included, making this a well-rounded day trip.
• Limited Facilities on the Glacier: Remember, there are no restrooms on the glacier—visit the Icefield Centre beforehand.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Starting Point

Your adventure begins early, with pickup options from Calgary (8:00 am), Canmore (9:15 am), or Banff (9:40 am). The transportation is air-conditioned, comfortable, and designed to maximize your viewing pleasure during the drive along the famous Icefields Parkway—a route praised for its jaw-dropping mountain scenery.

Travel times vary, but the goal is to make the most of your day while keeping things relaxed. With small groups of 11 or fewer, the experience feels intimate and less rushed, allowing you to ask questions and soak in the scenery.

Peyto Lake – A Must-See Photo Stop

The first major highlight is Peyto Lake, one of the most photographed spots in the Rockies. Known for its vibrant turquoise waters and wolf-shaped appearance from above, this lake is fed by glacier meltwater, which gives it that striking color. From the viewing platform, you’ll see the “cat’s paw” shape, something that’s impossible to fully appreciate from the ground. Many travelers comment on how breathtaking the view is, with one noting, “it’s like looking into a gemstone.”

This stop is brief but essential, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs before heading further into the mountains.

Lunch at Saskatchewan River Crossing

Next, the tour pauses at Saskatchewan River Crossing. Here, you can choose from the cafe menu, with options for a quick, satisfying meal. While lunch is not included in the tour, the cafe offers a variety of options, and the setting amidst towering peaks is peaceful and scenic.

Travelers often comment on how this stop provides a needed break and scenic respite, with one saying, “I loved sitting outside, taking in the mountains while enjoying a hot coffee.” It’s a good opportunity to relax and appreciate the vast wilderness.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Columbia Icefield and Snow Coach Ride

The centerpiece of this trip is the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest icefields in North America. Here, you’ll switch to a Snow Coach, a specially designed vehicle that handles the snow and ice with ease. Riding onto the Athabasca Glacier is genuinely exhilarating. The guides often share stories about the glacier’s formation and its ongoing retreat, which adds depth to the experience.

Once on the glacier, you’ll have about 15 to 25 minutes to step out onto the ancient ice. During this time, guides will point out crevasses, ice formations, and teach you about climate change’s impact. Many travelers appreciate being able to walk on the glacier—an experience described as “otherworldly” and “surreal,” with one visitor noting, “It’s hard to believe you’re walking on ice that’s thousands of years old.”

Scenic Stops at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake

After descending from the glacier, the tour continues to Bow Lake, a tranquil mirror of the surrounding peaks, perfect for photos and quiet contemplation. Then, you’ll revisit Peyto Lake from a different vantage point, allowing you to appreciate its shape and color from above.

Throughout these stops, the guides are attentive and eager to share insights, making these moments as educational as they are scenic.

What We Think About the Value

At $107, this tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the Rockies’ most iconic sights, with included park fees and professional photos adding value. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and Wi-Fi onboard helps keep you connected.

The highlight, of course, is the Ice Explorer ride, which offers a sense of adventure and a close-up look at a glacier. It’s a genuine once-in-a-lifetime experience that justifies the cost for many travelers.

Real Travelers’ Thoughts

• “The glacier walk was the highlight of my trip. It was so surreal to stand on ice that’s been there for millennia.” – A common sentiment.
• “The views from Peyto Lake are even better than I expected, and the guide made sure we knew what to look for.” – A recurring compliment.
• Some mention that the long day can be tiring, especially if weather conditions are cold or wet, so layering and proper gear are advised.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Dress warmly, especially on the glacier, where it’s about 10°C colder than outside temperatures.
• Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and waterproof shoes to stay comfortable.
• Use the restroom at the Icefield Centre before the glacier walk, since there are no facilities on the ice.
• Arrive at your pickup location at least 5 minutes early to avoid missing the bus.
• The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues due to walking on glaciers and uneven terrain.
• No food is allowed in the vehicle, so plan accordingly.
• Use the included Wi-Fi to upload photos or check your messages during travel.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a full-day immersive experience in the Rockies, combining scenic vistas with a tangible adventure. Nature lovers will enjoy the glaciers and lakes, while those curious about climate change will find the glacier walk particularly meaningful. It’s great for first-timers eager to see the most photogenic spots, but also for seasoned travelers wanting a manageable, small-group tour.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to cover major sights with minimal hassle, this tour delivers. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider alternative options.

The Sum Up

This Calgary-based day tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the Canadian Rockies, balancing breathtaking scenery with a memorable glacier experience. The Ice Explorer ride onto Athabasca Glacier is a highlight that makes the trip stand out, and the stops at Peyto Lake and Bow Lake showcase some of nature’s most stunning colors and shapes. The small-group setting ensures a more personal and engaging experience, with knowledgeable guides making the journey both fun and educational.

The included fees, Wi-Fi, and professional photos add to the value, making it easier to focus on soaking in the views rather than worrying about logistics. It’s a perfect choice for those who want an active, scenery-filled day with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning.

While the day is long and the weather can be chilly, the memories of walking on ancient ice and witnessing mountain lakes in their full glory will stay with you long after you leave. This tour strikes a nice balance between adventure and comfort, suited best for those eager to experience the heart of the Rockies in one memorable day.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
The tour includes all park entrance fees, air-conditioned transportation, a guide, professional photos, and Wi-Fi. Lunch is not included, but there are options at Saskatchewan River Crossing.

How long is the Glacier walk?
You’ll be out on the Athabasca Glacier for about 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the guide’s instructions. During this time, you can step onto the ice and take photos.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, with layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes—especially on the glacier, where it’s about 10°C colder. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.

Are there restroom facilities on the glacier?
No, there are no washrooms on the glacier itself. Make sure to visit the Icefield Centre before your glacier walk.

Is this tour suitable for kids or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking on uneven terrain and glacier ice. Children should be comfortable in cold weather and long days.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour goes rain or shine; however, extreme weather can cause delays or cancellations, so check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process allows flexibility, so you can reserve now and pay later if needed.

This detailed, honest look hopefully helps you decide whether this tour suits your Rockies adventure. It offers a rare chance to walk on glaciers, see spectacular lakes, and enjoy the majestic mountain scenery—all in one well-organized trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: