From Banff: Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk

This guided tour from Banff offers a full day of awe-inspiring sights, from icy glaciers to panoramic mountain views. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews highlight its excellent organization, knowledgeable guides, and unforgettable scenery.

What we love about this experience is the chance to walk directly on 25,000-year-old ice, the breathtaking views from the Skywalk, and the insider stories from guides who clearly love sharing their knowledge. The only thing to consider is that the long bus ride might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer shorter excursions.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, enjoy learning about glaciers’ impact on landscapes, and want a combination of adventure and sightseeing. If you’re visiting Banff and craving an immersive experience in the Columbia Icefield area, this trip is a fantastic choice.

Good To Know

• Impressive Glacier Experience: Ride an Ice Explorer directly onto the Athabasca Glacier, walking on ice that’s over 25,000 years old.
• Stunning Views & Photo Stops: Multiple scenic stops, including Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier, provide picture-perfect moments.
• Unique Skywalk Adventure: Walk on a glass-floored platform with panoramic mountain and waterfall views.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides include engaging storytellers who share insights into geology, wildlife, and glacier formation.
• All-Inclusive Value: Price covers transportation, lunch, all tickets, and snacks, making it a hassle-free full-day outing.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect a 10-hour journey, with plenty of stops and highlights, ideal for those who love full schedules.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting bright and early, the tour kicks off with hotel pickups in Banff, setting the tone for a day packed with scenic vistas and engaging commentary. As the bus winds along the famous Icefields Parkway, you’ll enjoy views of turquoise lakes, rugged peaks, and scattering of glaciers—elements that make this road one of the world’s most scenic drives.

One of the tour’s first stops is Crowfoot Glacier, where you can snap photos of this iconic formation, often framed beautifully against the sky—something travelers consistently praise. Next, you’ll reach Bow Lake, a pristine lake renowned for its reflective surface and the surrounding mountain backdrop, perfect for a quick photo break.

The highlight of the drive is the Athabasca Glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield’s six toes. Here, you will have the chance to step onto the glacier itself—an experience that many reviews describe as unforgettable. You will board a massive Ice Explorer vehicle, specially designed for icy terrain, to ride onto the glacier’s surface and get a true sense of its scale and age.

Once on the glacier, you’ll have approximately 20 minutes to walk around on the 25,000-year-old ice. This walk not only offers a chance to admire the blue hues of the ice but also a peek into the streams and meltwater that flow from glaciers—something travelers find both humbling and fascinating.

After this icy adventure, a hot buffet lunch at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre provides a well-deserved rest and nourishment. The centre’s amenities make it comfortable for everyone, and the lunch quality receives consistent praise for satisfying even the most enthusiastic hikers and explorers.

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, perched on a cliff overlooking the Sunwapta Valley. The glass-floored platform extends for impressive views of waterfalls, rushing rivers, and mountain summits. Travelers report feeling a mix of thrill and awe, especially when stepping out onto the transparent floor to gaze down into the valley below.

The tour wraps up with a scenic journey back to Banff, with plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in the landscape. The entire experience is designed to blend adventure, education, and sightseeing in a seamless way.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Ride in an Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier: This is a rare chance to walk on a glacier that has been forming for thousands of years. According to recent reviews, the guides do an excellent job of explaining glacial geology and the significance of these icy giants in shaping the landscape.

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk: This glass-floored balcony offers an adrenaline rush combined with awe-inspiring vistas. Reviewers mention that it is “quite a victory,” and the views are described as “astonishing,” making it a highlight of the trip.

Scenic Stops with Photogenic Spots: The stops at Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier aren’t just quick photo ops—they’re memorable moments where travelers can appreciate the raw beauty of the Rockies, often commenting on how these sites exceeded expectations.

Expert Guides & Comfortable Transport: Multiple reviews mention guides like Dave and Andre, who bring energy and knowledge, making the long bus ride enjoyable rather than tedious. The bus itself is described as comfortable, with onboard snacks and refreshments adding to the experience.

Pricing & Value

At $273 per person, the tour falls into a premium category but offers comprehensive value. Included in the price are hotel pickups and drop-offs, a hot buffet lunch, all tickets (Ice Explorer and Skywalk), and snacks. For anyone eager to see the glaciers, walk on ice, and enjoy sweeping mountain vistas without the hassle of planning, this upfront cost covers all essentials.

Compared to self-drive options, this tour provides convenience and expert narration—helping you get the most out of your day without worrying about navigation or timing. Plus, the guided aspect brings an educational element that enhances the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

• Dress warmly and layer up. Temperatures on the glacier can be significantly cooler than in Banff, even in summer.
• Wear comfortable, waterproof shoes suitable for walking on ice and uneven terrain.
• Bring gloves and a windbreaker to stay cozy during outdoor stops.
• Prepare for a long day—the 10-hour duration includes travel, so bring snacks and stay hydrated.
• Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot, as this is a popular tour with high ratings.

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Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with one mentioning that “Dave made it so enjoyable,” and another highlighting Andre’s friendliness and expertise. The scenic stops are noted for being very picturesque, with travelers expressing that they felt they got “the perfect picture” at each spot.

Many mention the walk on the glacier as a core highlight—describing it as “fascinating” and “truly unforgettable.” The Skywalk, in particular, is often described as a “victory” or “thrilling,” with some reviewers noting that the views make it worth the slightly elevated risk of walking on glass.

The long bus ride is seen as a minor drawback, especially if you are not a fan of lengthy rides, but most agree that the stunning scenery and informative guides make it worthwhile.

The Sum Up

This tour from Banff to the Columbia Icefield offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, scenery, and education. It’s especially suited for those who want to see glaciers up close, walk on ancient ice, and enjoy dramatic mountain vistas without the stress of planning each detail.

The combination of Ice Explorer rides, the Skywalk, and scenic stops at Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking the Canadian Rockies’ best. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and inclusive lunch add convenience, making this a full-day experience that delivers on both fun and learning.

While it’s a longer tour, the rewards are plentiful—imagine standing on a glacier, gazing at towering peaks, and feeling the thrill of walking on 25,000-year-old ice. If you’re after a tour that combines adventure with spectacular scenery, this trip is hard to beat.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 10 hours from start to finish, including travel, stops, and activities.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the Ice Explorer ride, Skywalk admission, a hot buffet lunch, snacks, and guided commentary.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best for those who can handle a full day and are comfortable with outdoor walking and some elevation. It’s not recommended for people with limited mobility or wheelchair users.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm layers, waterproof shoes, gloves, and a windbreaker to stay comfortable on the glacier and during outdoor stops.

Can I walk on the glacier?
Yes, you will have about 20 minutes to walk on the glacier itself, which is a highlight for many travelers.

What’s the experience at the Skywalk like?
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Sunwapta Valley, the glass-floored platform offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, rivers, and mountains—it’s both exhilarating and photogenic.

Are there any restrictions on pets?
Pets are not allowed on this tour.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot online, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It also allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your plans.

This Banff-based journey is a fantastic way to experience the grandeur of the Columbia Icefield and the Canadian Rockies beyond just driving through. Whether you’re a glacier enthusiast or simply looking for striking landscapes, this tour packs enough adventure and insights to make your trip memorable.

You can check if your dates are available here: