Banff:Columbia Icefield Adventures, Skywalk and Iconic Lakes Tour

Banff: Columbia Icefield Adventures, Skywalk and Iconic Lakes Tour

Our quick take:
While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews highlight its smooth pacing, spectacular scenery, and attentive guides.
We love the variety of stops—ranging from serene lakes to rugged glaciers—and the highlight: the Columbia Icefield Skywalk with its glass floor suspended 280 meters above Sunwapta Valley.
The main consideration? It’s a long day (around 11 hours), so it’s best suited for active travelers ready for a full schedule.
Perfect for those craving diverse landscapes and memorable photo ops, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive Rocky Mountain experience.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: The tour covers several iconic lakes and glacier views.
• Expert-guided walks: A 1 km interpretive walk enriches your understanding of local wildlife and geology.
• The Skywalk experience: The glass platform offers unforgettable panoramic vistas from 280 meters above Sunwapta Valley.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, snacks, and bottled water.
• Price & value: At approximately $88.33, it offers access to multiple highlights with an optional $123 access fee for Icefield activities.
• Long duration: Be prepared for an 11-hour day, which is packed but rewarding.

Exploring the Itinerary: A Deep Dive into Each Stop

Starting with the Lakes: A Picture-Perfect Beginning

Lake Louise is often the first stop of many Banff adventures, and for good reason. Its turquoise waters fed by Victoria Glacier create a postcard-perfect scene. While only a 30-minute stop with free admission, it’s a great intro to the Rockies’ vivid scenery. Travelers note that starting early meant fewer crowds—an ideal way to appreciate the tranquility. It sets the tone for the day: serene, breathtaking, and photo-worthy.

Crowfoot Glacier offers a glimpse of ancient ice perched above Bow Lake. The 20-minute stop includes an admission ticket, giving you a quick but impressive view of this glacier’s dramatic features. Reviewers mention the breathtaking scenery here and appreciate the short walk that allows for better photo opportunities.

Bow Lake provides one of the most iconic views along the Icefields Parkway, with its vibrant turquoise waters and reflection of the surrounding peaks. The 30-minute stop allows ample time to soak in the landscape and snap some memorable shots. Travelers often comment on the stunning clarity of Bow Lake, which seems to mirror the sky perfectly.

Midday Marvels: Iconic Peaks and Hidden Gems

Peyto Lake is renowned for its wolf-head shape and brilliant turquoise hue. With a 45-minute stop, it’s a photographer’s paradise. Many reviewers mention that the hike to get a better view isn’t strenuous but offers rewarding vistas, making it worth the effort. Its vibrant color and unique shape make it one of the most photographed lakes in the park.

Waterfowl Lakes offers a quieter, more peaceful spot to admire the towering peaks of Mount Chephren and Howse Peak. The 20-minute stop is free, and travelers love the calming views—perfect for a quick moment of reflection before heading further into the Rockies.

Saskatchewan River Crossing is more than just a scenic stop; it’s a historic junction where three rivers meet. While brief, it offers a chance to appreciate the rugged landscape and learn about the area’s history. Travelers often find it interesting to see this natural crossroads, adding context to the day’s journey.

The Heart of the Tour: Columbia Icefield

Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is the gateway to the most dramatic part of the trip. The 1.5-hour stop includes a chance to learn about glaciers, geology, and wildlife through exhibits and guided walks. While admission isn’t included in the ticket price, many find this time worthwhile because it deepens understanding of the glacier’s natural history. Reviewers feel it’s a good balance of learning and sightseeing, with some noting the interesting exhibits that helped them appreciate the scale and importance of the glacier.

The Grand Finale: The Skywalk Experience

Columbia Icefield Skywalk is the star attraction. Suspended 280 meters above Sunwapta Valley, the glass-floored platform offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, and rugged cliffs. The hour spent here is often the highlight for visitors, who describe it as “thrilling” and “jaw-dropping.” The fact that you’re walking on glass above such a vast drop makes for an adrenaline rush, even for those wary of heights.

While the ticket for the Skywalk and Ice Explorer is not included in the base price ($123 CA per person), reviewers highly recommend purchasing it in advance during the busy summer months, as tickets can sell out quickly. Many, like Robert, mention that the timing is well organized, and guides help make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, the tour is designed for comfort, even during the long day. With a maximum of 28 travelers, it feels intimate enough to ask questions and interact with guides. The tour includes pickup, which adds convenience, especially for those staying in Banff. The driver-guide, Harry, received praise for his attentiveness and engaging storytelling, making the long drive more enjoyable.

The duration (around 11 hours) is significant but well-paced, with enough breaks to stretch and appreciate each stop. Some reviewers noted the early start and the long day but agreed it was worth it for the variety and quality of sights.

The Cost: Is It Worth It?

At $88.33 per person, this tour offers a remarkable lineup of highlights—lakes, glaciers, and the Skywalk—without the hassle of planning each stop. The main cost consideration is the $123 CA ticket for Icefield activities, which includes the Skywalk and Ice Explorer. Many find the combined value worthwhile, especially since these attractions are among the most memorable features of a trip to the Rockies.

You might find that if you’re a nature lover and photography enthusiast, this tour provides extraordinary opportunities to capture and experience some of Canada’s most iconic landscapes. The experience is especially suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive day of exploration without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple stops.

Summary of Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Diverse stops showcasing the best of Banff and Jasper’s landscapes
• Expert-guided interpretive walk at the Icefield enhances understanding
• Thrilling Skywalk with panoramic views, perfect for photo buffs and adventure lovers
• Comfortable transportation with a small group size
• Good value considering the number of sites and experiences included

Cons:

• Long day, which might be tiring for some travelers
• Additional cost for access to the Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer ($123 CA)
• Limited time at each stop means quick visits rather than in-depth exploration

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits active travelers eager to see a variety of iconic lakes, glaciers, and mountain views without the hassle of planning individual trips. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a mix of scenic drives, guided walks, and adrenaline-pumping experiences like the Skywalk.

Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and adventure seekers will find plenty to love here. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend multiple days exploring the Rockies, you might consider spreading out the visits or choosing smaller, specialty tours.

The Sum Up

The Banff Columbia Icefield Adventures, Skywalk, and Iconic Lakes Tour offers an outstanding blend of scenic beauty, engaging guides, and memorable experiences—all in a long but well-organized day. It’s particularly valuable for travelers who want to maximize their time in the Rockies and see the most iconic sights.

While it’s a relatively affordable way to access some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Banff and Jasper, remember to factor in the optional ticket cost for the Skywalk and Ice Explorer if you want to experience the full thrill of the glacier. The inclusion of well-chosen stops and the expert guidance makes it a worthwhile addition to any Rockies itinerary.

In the end, if you’re looking for a day packed with picture-perfect scenery, fascinating geology, and a dash of adrenaline, this tour might just be your best bet to leave with a camera full of awe-inspiring images and memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 11 hours, including stops, sightseeing, and transportation.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 28 travelers, providing a more personal experience.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
For the Icefield activities, including the Skywalk and Ice Explorer, it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during summer.

What’s the best time to see the lakes and glaciers?
Starting early helps avoid crowds and enjoy calmer mornings, especially at popular spots like Bow Lake and Peyto Lake.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included. You can bring snacks or buy food during the stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the long day if traveling with very young children or those sensitive to heights.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy—full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, bottled water, snacks, and soda are included. Entrance to Columbia Icefield attractions is extra.

How scenic is the Skywalk?
It’s considered one of the most thrilling parts—standing on glass 280 meters above the valley offers panoramic views that are hard to beat.