Icefields Parkway Glacier Adventure + Columbia Skywalk

Experience the Majesty of Alberta’s Icefields Parkway with a Glacier and Skywalk Adventure

If you’re craving a day of jaw-dropping scenery and authentic wilderness, the Icefields Parkway Glacier Adventure + Columbia Skywalk offers an excellent way to experience some of Canada’s most spectacular landscapes. For $309 per person, this 9-hour guided trip explores iconic stops like Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield, and includes unforgettable activities like walking on ancient glaciers and crossing the glass-floored Columbia Skywalk. Hosted by Radventures and rated 4.5, it’s a well-balanced mix of guided insight and independent exploration that feels both intimate and adventurous.

What we love about this tour is the combination of comfort and authenticity. The upscale van with panoramic windows makes it easy to take in the scenery without the rush or fatigue of a big bus. Plus, the small group size (max 12 guests) ensures you get personalized attention from your guide—often a local with a passion for the region’s natural wonders. Two things stand out: first, the opportunity to walk on the ancient Athabasca Glacier aboard an all-terrain Ice Explorer—a rare chance to stand on ice that’s thousands of years old. Second, the Columbia Skywalk offers an exhilarating view high above the Sunwapta Valley, perfect for snapping those Instagram-worthy shots.

One possible consideration is that the tour runs from mid-May to late October, so if you’re traveling outside this window, some sights like the high alpine lakes might still be frozen or less accessible. Plus, the tour is designed for individuals aged 12 and older; families with younger children might need to look elsewhere for a more suitable experience. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and authentic look at the most stunning parts of the Icefields Parkway, especially those who appreciate a knowledgeable guide and a mix of activities.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: Experience the awe-inspiring views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and sweeping mountain vistas along Alberta’s famous highway.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size (up to 12) ensures attentive guiding and flexibility for exploring scenic viewpoints at your own pace.
• Unique Activities: Walking on the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier and crossing the Columbia Icefield Skywalk are highlights that add adventure and thrill.
• Authentic Insights: Guides provide detailed stories and local insights that bring each stop to life.
• Ideal for Nature Lovers: Perfect for those who want to see iconic Canadian scenery with the comfort of upscale transportation and expert guidance.
• Weather and Season Considerations: The tour operates from May through October, with some sights possibly still frozen early or late in the season.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Icefields Parkway Glacier Adventure + Columbia Skywalk

What This Tour Covers and Why It Matters

Starting from the meet-up point at Banff Train Station, this nine-hour journey takes you along Alberta’s famous Icefields Parkway, widely regarded as one of the world’s most scenic roads. Here, the scenery isn’t just beautiful—it’s dramatic. Think towering peaks, ancient glaciers, and lakes that seem to glow with an otherworldly hue.

The tour’s pacing is designed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed. You’ll stop at the well-known spots like Peyto Lake, renowned for its wolf-shaped profile, and Bow Lake, a turquoise jewel set beneath towering mountains. Your guide, often a local with an excellent sense of storytelling, will point out the best viewing spots, hidden gems, and wildlife sightings, which they say happen on 95% of tours.

What makes this tour stand out is the balance it strikes. Instead of just rushing through sights on a big bus, you get to hit the trails for gentle hikes—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the views at your own pace. Plus, the upscale van with large panoramic windows makes the traveling part of the adventure itself. It’s a comfortable way to sit back while gazing at the ever-changing landscape.

Exploring the Glacier and the Skywalk

One of the most memorable activities is the opportunity to step onto the Athabasca Glacier in an Ice Explorer. These all-terrain vehicles are specially designed for icy terrain. As you walk on the 10,000-year-old ice, you can’t help but feel a connection to the past—this glacier has witnessed millennia of climate change, and standing on it makes the scale of time and nature’s power quite tangible.

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk offers a different kind of thrill. Suspended high above the Sunwapta Valley, with a glass floor that lets you peer straight down into the wilderness below, it’s as close as most of us will get to walking on air. This blend of adrenaline and awe is often a highlight for visitors, with many noting that the views from this vantage point are unforgettable.

What to Expect and Practicalities

The tour includes modern, spacious transportation with large windows to enhance your viewing experience. Pickup and drop-off are at Banff Train Station, making it easy to connect with other parts of your trip. Water refills and a cooler to keep your lunch cold are provided, so packing a snack or drink is unnecessary—though you’re welcome to bring your own.

The tour is designed for those aged 12 and up, making it suitable for families with older children or teenagers who can handle the drive and walking. As always, weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack layers and be prepared for possible early-season snow or late-season cold.

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The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $309, this tour might seem on the higher side, but considering it includes all the major highlights, activities (like the glacier walk and Skywalk), a small-group experience, and upscale transportation, the value becomes clearer. The combination of guided insights and free time to explore makes it a better option than a large bus tour where you’re just a face in the crowd.

What We’ve Heard from Other Travelers

Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery as the main reasons they’d recommend the tour. One traveler noted, “Our guide, Lisa, was fantastic—she knew every mountain story and kept us engaged throughout.” Another shared, “Walking on the glacier was surreal; I never thought I’d get that close to such ancient ice.”

Some guests appreciated the small group size, making conversations more personal, and others enjoyed the flexibility to explore at their own pace. Some cautioned about the season’s variability, noting that early or late in the season, some sights might be less accessible.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and scenery. If you’re looking for a relaxed but adventure-packed day with plenty of photo opportunities, expert insights, and unique activities, it’s an excellent choice. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a smaller group and a more personalized experience, especially if you’re interested in learning about the region’s natural history or just want a hassle-free way to see key sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, the minimum recommended age is 12 years old, mainly because of the activities and walking involved.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes expert local guides, upscale transportation, pickup and drop-off at Banff Train Station, water refills, an onboard cooler, and admission to the Columbia Icefield (Ice Explorer + Skywalk).

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included, but a cooler allows you to bring cold drinks and lunches. There are stops where you can purchase food.

How long are the hikes or walks?
The tour involves short, mellow hikes at the scenic stops—these are optional, and you can choose to relax instead.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is recommended, as mountain weather can change quickly. Don’t forget sturdy shoes for walking on glaciers or trails.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is this tour available outside the May-October window?
No, it runs from mid-May to late October; outside these months, some sights may be frozen or inaccessible.

What makes this tour different from others?
The combination of high-quality activities like the glacier walk and Skywalk, paired with personalized guiding and small group intimacy, sets it apart.

How big is the group?
Limited to 12 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with your guide.

What if it rains or the weather is bad?
Mountain weather can be unpredictable. The tour will operate in most conditions, but some activities may be adjusted or canceled if safety requires.

To sum it up, the Icefields Parkway Glacier Adventure + Columbia Skywalk is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded, comfortable, and visually stunning day in Alberta. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more, the combination of scenic stops, active glacier experiences, and breathtaking views makes this tour a memorable way to connect with Canada’s natural beauty. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guided insights, smaller groups, and unique activities that elevate a sightseeing day into a true adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: