Calgary Banff: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, and Lakes DayTour

This full-day tour promises a whirlwind of breathtaking scenery, from glacier-covered peaks to crystal-clear lakes, all packed into roughly 11 hours of adventure. While we haven’t personally joined, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s an experience worth considering if you’re craving the beauty of the Canadian Rockies without multiple days on the road.

What we love about this tour? First, the Skywalk over Sunwapta Valley offers a unique perspective and a real adrenaline boost with its glass floor. Second, the stops at Peyto Lake and Bow Lake are picture-perfect moments that capture the essence of the Rockies’ vibrant colors. Lastly, the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier bring the icy grandeur of glaciers right before your eyes—a rare opportunity.

One potential consideration? The ticket prices for the Icewalk and Skywalk are extra, so budgeting for those extras is wise. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day of sightseeing and are eager to see multiple highlights in one go. If you’re after a mix of incredible views, expert guides, and good value, this trip could be a fantastic match.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Day: Visit iconic spots like Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, and Lake Louise in a single trip.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides, like Ashish, add insightful commentary and keep the day organized.
• Stunning Scenery: Stops at water bodies, waterfalls, and glaciers ensure plenty of memorable photo moments.
• Value for Money: At $68, you get a full 11-hour experience with transportation and guided commentary.
• Optional Tickets: Skywalk and Ice Explorer tours are extra, so plan accordingly.
• Customer Satisfaction: Consistently high ratings (5/5) based on over 115 reviews highlight the trip’s quality.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Canadian Rockies Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins early, with pickup options in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff, making it flexible for travelers based in these towns. The main pick-up point in Calgary is right near the Delta Hotels Downtown, with a meet time around 8:00 am. In Canmore and Banff, pickups are conveniently timed for a smooth start. The journey kicks off with a comfortable bus or van, setting the tone for a relaxed, scenic drive.

The entire tour lasts approximately 11 hours. That’s a full day, but with well-paced stops and lots of stunning vistas, it doesn’t feel rushed. Group sizes tend to be small (around 12 people), which enhances the experience—more personalized guidance and less time waiting in line.

The Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest ice fields in North America. Here, travelers have the option to hop on an Ice Explorer, a specially designed vehicle that takes you onto the glacier itself. While the Ice Explorer ticket isn’t included in the base price, many reviews mention it as a worthwhile add-on—an unforgettable way to get close to the glacier’s icy surface.

Reviewers like Joan from Ireland appreciated the stunning views, even in heavy rain: “Even in the rain, the scenery was breathtaking,” she said. Others, like Daryl-anne from Australia, called the glacier walk “the highlight,” noting guides were helpful and friendly. The sense of scale and the slow-changing nature of the glaciers make this stop both awe-inspiring and educational, as guides often share insights about how glaciers are melting and transforming over time.

The Skywalk Experience

The Skywalk over Sunwapta Valley is a favorite for its exhilarating design—glass floors hovering over a deep canyon. Many reviews, including Angelika from the UK, mention guides like Ashish creating a welcoming atmosphere while explaining the geology and history of the site. Although tickets for the Skywalk are extra, the views are worth it for most, offering a vertiginous but stable platform with sweeping views of the valley below.

Some travelers, like Cherry from Canada, rave about the photography opportunities here, while others appreciate the chance to walk on what feels like a slice of the sky. For those afraid of heights, it’s manageable, as the glass floor offers a clear view straight down but is very stable.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lakes and Waterfalls: Peyto, Bow, Waterfowl, and Tangle Creek

Moving on, the tour visits several lakes renowned for their spectacular colors and shapes. Peyto Lake, with its distinctive wolf-like profile, is a crowd favorite. Reviews mention that the viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama, and many recommend arriving early to beat the crowds (something to consider if you’re a shutterbug).

Bow Lake and Waterfowl Lake are equally stunning—bright, reflective, and surrounded by towering peaks. Waterfowl Lake, in particular, offers a peaceful vibe, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the tranquility. The stops here tend to be short but well worth the time; guides often point out wildlife and lesser-known viewpoints.

Further along, Tangle Creek Falls provides an impressive cascade visible from the road, and many travelers appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs and get some fresh mountain air.

The Iconic Water Bodies: Lake Louise and Minnewanka

In winter, the tour spends about 30 minutes at Lake Louise—a reasonable amount of time to snap some photos and soak in the famous mountain backdrop. In summer, this stop might be longer, but in any season, the view of the glacier-fed lake with its luminous turquoise water is a sight to remember.

Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake are also included, offering more chances for scenic photography. Guests mention that guides like Ashish go out of their way to help capture special moments, including taking photos for travelers or pointing out hidden viewpoints.

Waterfalls, Canyons, and Scenic Overlooks

The tour includes stops at Mistaya Canyon, Tangle Creek Falls, and the Herbert Lake view point, adding variety to the day. Reviewers highlight guides’ knowledge about the geology and history of these places, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Practical Aspects and Overall Value

The entire experience is designed to maximize sightseeing in a short period. The transportation is comfortable, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. The price of $68 covers the lengthy tour, guide, and transportation—making it quite competitive considering the number of stops and sights. However, keep in mind that the Skywalk and Ice Explorer are additional, which many reviewers found to be justified investments for the full experience.

Guide and Customer Service

The tour guides, particularly Ashish, receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, professionalism, and willingness to go above and beyond. Many mention that guides shared interesting facts, took countless photos, and kept the group organized and on schedule.

One reviewer shared, “Ashish was very accommodating and patient, ensuring we visited all the stunning viewpoints,” which is a common sentiment. The guides’ genuine enthusiasm and local knowledge enhance the value of the tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, and those short on time but eager to see the highlights of the Rockies. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, guided day with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and scenic appreciation. If you’re comfortable with longer bus rides and want to see glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, and viewpoints all in one day, this trip hits the spot.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an excellent way to experience the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies without the hassle of planning multiple days. The combination of glacier views, stunning lakes, and thrilling experiences like the Skywalk makes it a value-packed option. The knowledgeable guides and small group size ensure a friendly, informative atmosphere that keeps the day engaging.

For travelers seeking a comprehensive, scenic adventure that covers many of the Rockies’ most famous sights, this tour provides a balanced mix of awe-inspiring landscapes, educational commentary, and photo opportunities. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guided trips, want to maximize their sightseeing, and don’t mind paying a little extra for optional experiences like the Ice Explorer and Skywalk.

If your goal is to capture incredible scenery and learn about the area from local experts, this tour is a strong choice—delivering the Rockies’ essence in one memorable day.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation from select pickup points in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff is included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 11 hours, including all stops and travel time.

Are tickets for the Skywalk and Ice Explorer included?
No, those are extra costs, but many reviews suggest they’re worth the additional expense for the full experience.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking at viewpoints.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely—bring a camera or smartphone to capture the incredible landscapes. Guides often help take photos for you.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments or heart problems due to uneven terrain and outdoor stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot early, especially during peak season. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if it rains?
The tour still goes ahead, and rain often adds a mystical touch to the scenery. Just bring waterproof gear and enjoy the splashes of waterfalls and rainbows that can appear.

This full-day tour of the Canadian Rockies delivers a well-rounded, picture-worthy experience for anyone eager to see the best of Alberta’s natural beauty. From glaciers to lakes, and with expert guides leading the way, it’s a day packed with unforgettable moments—and plenty of opportunities for stunning photos.

You can check if your dates are available here: