From Banff: Athabasca Glacier and Columbia Icefield Day Trip

Discover the Rockies’ Crown Jewels on a Full-Day Trip from Banff

Imagine spending a day surrounded by towering mountain peaks, glacial ice, waterfalls, and emerald lakes, all without the hassle of navigation or planning. For $249 per person, this 11-hour tour takes you along the famous Icefields Parkway, widely regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world. You’ll visit the iconic Athabasca Glacier, ride an Ice Explorer across its ancient ice, and stand on the Glacier Skywalk’s glass platform, suspended high above the Sunwapta Valley.

What really makes this trip shine are the personalized guides, like Chloe or Jake, who bring the landscape to life with stories and insights. Plus, the meals included—a hearty packed lunch—mean you won’t go hungry before the day’s adventure winds down.

That said, this is a long day—11 hours of travel and sightseeing—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic bus rides, comfortable group sizes, and are eager to see the highlights without the stress of driving. A good pair of walking shoes, warm clothing, and sunglasses are essentials. For those who want a taste of the most breathtaking parts of Banff and Jasper National Parks, this tour offers excellent value and authentic Canadiana.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Travel along the renowned Icefields Parkway, featuring stunning mountain views, waterfalls, lakes, and glaciers.
• Unique Experiences: Climb aboard an Ice Explorer on the Athabasca Glacier and walk the glass-floored Glacier Skywalk.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, often Canadian locals, enrich the experience with stories and insights.
• Comfort & Convenience: Round-trip transportation from Banff, with a relaxed pace and no navigation worries.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes transportation, a guided glacier tour, Skywalk, and a delicious packed lunch.
• Wildlife & Nature: Opportunities to spot wildlife at the forest edges and enjoy untouched natural scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Experience

Starting the Adventure: Easy Pickup & Scenic Ride

Your day begins early with pickups from various Banff hotels, including the Banff Rocky Mountain Resort, Canalta Lodge, and Banff Park Lodge. The small group size—usually around 9 or fewer—ensures a comfortable journey with plenty of personal attention. As you settle into the modern mini bus, your guide will give a quick briefing, setting expectations for the day ahead.

Once on the road, you’ll quickly realize why this drive is so celebrated. The Icefields Parkway winds through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Rockies, with towering peaks, rushing waterfalls, and scenic lakes lining the route. You might catch glimpses of wildlife at the forest’s edge—something many reviews highlight as a memorable bonus. One traveler fondly recalls a grizzly bear wandering near the road, adding an unexpected wildlife encounter to the day.

Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre: Gateway to the Glaciers

Your first major stop is the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre. Here, you’ll board a specially designed Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle built to traverse the shifting, crevassed surface of Athabasca Glacier. The ride onto the glacier is both fun and educational—your guide will explain its history, how it’s retreating, and some glacier facts that keep the experience grounded.

Many reviews mention the opportunity to touch the glacier ice and even drink water straight from the ice—a surreal experience that adds a tactile element to this visit. The ice is ancient, often over 1,000 years old, and drinking glacier water is both refreshing and a reminder of the pristine wilderness.

The Glacier Skywalk: Standing Above the Rockies

Next is the Glacier Skywalk, a 1-kilometer pathway with a glass floor that extends over the cliff edge, offering views that will take your breath away. Standing on the platform, you’re 918 feet above the Sunwapta Valley, gazing down at glaciers perched high above you and mountain peaks stretching to the horizon.

Many who have visited praise the Skywalk for its stunning vistas and the thrill of being suspended above the landscape. One reviewer noted that the Skywalk “proved jawdropping,” and many appreciate the unique perspective it offers of the glaciers and surrounding mountains.

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Packed Lunch & Iconic Landmarks

Midday, you’ll enjoy a hearty packed lunch of sandwiches, fruits, chips, brownies, and juice—more filling than some expected, which keeps you energized for the rest of the day. The meal is well-reviewed for its quality and generous portions, often considered a highlight in itself.

Following lunch, the tour continues with stops at Bow Lake and the headwaters of the Bow River, both offering scenic photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs. These iconic spots showcase the stunning diversity of the Rockies’ natural features.

Return Journey & Additional Scenic Stops

As the day winds down, the bus makes a few more scenic stops—like Peyto Lake, which many reviewers describe as “beautiful,” and other viewpoints where you can admire the grandeur of the landscape. The trip back to Banff is relaxed, with plenty of time for questions and reflection on the day’s sights.

What Travelers Love & What to Consider

The majority of reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, like Chloe, Tina, or Jake, who make the long day engaging with interesting stories and facts. The comfortable transportation and the fact that you don’t have to worry about navigation** allow you to focus on the scenery and your fellow travelers.

Many reviewers mention how delicious the included lunch was—surprisingly satisfying and more than enough to keep hunger at bay. The variety of scenic stops and the opportunity to see wildlife, including bears and other animals, add extra value.

One consideration is the long duration—11 hours—which may be tiring for some. The early start and full itinerary mean you should be prepared for a full day, and weather can be unpredictable, so warm clothing and sturdy shoes are essentials.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see the highlights of Jasper and Banff’s top glacier and mountain scenery. It’s ideal for those seeking guided expertise, comfortable transportation, and the opportunity to experience iconic sights like the Athabasca Glacier and Glacier Skywalk without the stress of planning or driving. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager for a taste of the Canadian Rockies will find plenty to love here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup. Instead, you’ll be picked up at specific locations across Banff, such as the Banff Rocky Mountain Resort and the Banff Park Lodge, with designated times.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, making it a full-day activity. The start times vary depending on pickup location, with early departures around 7:25 AM and returns in the late afternoon or early evening.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and sunglasses are highly recommended. Since weather in the mountains can change quickly, layering is key. Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the tour.

Does the tour include food?
Yes, a packed lunch is included, featuring a sandwich, fruit, chips, brownies, and juice. Reviews suggest the lunch is generous and well-prepared.

Can I see wildlife on this trip?
Yes, many travelers mention spotting wildlife such as bears and other animals at the forest edges. The guides are attentive and knowledgeable about spotting and respecting wildlife.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s long duration and walking involved suggest it’s best for children who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. It’s a family-friendly option if everyone can handle the pace.

Are there any restrictions on bringing luggage?
Luggage or large bags are not allowed, so pack light and bring only essentials like a small backpack.

What are the main highlights?
The key highlights include riding onto the Athabasca Glacier via Ice Explorer, the jaw-dropping Glacier Skywalk, scenic stops at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake, and the opportunity to learn about glaciers and mountain landscapes from expert guides.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. For groups of 9 or more, the policy extends to 7 days prior. No-shows or missed departures are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to see the majestic Athabasca Glacier and the Icefields Parkway’s breathtaking scenery without the hassle of self-driving. The inclusion of glacier exploration, Skywalk views, and a substantial packed lunch provides great value. Many travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the authentic, fun atmosphere they create.

If you’re looking for a memorable, educational day out with plenty of photo opportunities and natural wonders, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suited for outdoor lovers, first-time visitors to Banff, and anyone who appreciates the personal touch of a guided experience.

The Sum Up

Traveling through the Canadian Rockies on this guided tour delivers a feast of stunning views and unique experiences. It combines the thrill of walking on ancient ice, the exhilaration of walking a glass-floored Skywalk, and the relaxed comfort of knowing your journey is taken care of. The value for money is evident when you consider the multiple stops, expert guides, and included meals.

This trip is best for visitors wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore Banff and Jasper’s most famous sights. It suits those who enjoy learning about the landscape, spotting wildlife, and capturing unforgettable photos. The full-day format ensures you’ll see a lot, but be prepared for a long day—comfortable shoes and warm layers are a must. For authentic Canadian mountain scenery and a taste of glacial wonder, you’ll find this tour delivers with enthusiasm and professionalism.

Hope this helps you decide whether this incredible day trip is the right fit for your Rockies adventure. Happy travels!

You can check availability for your dates here: