Banff National Park and Columbia Icefield 2 Day Tour from Calgary

If you’re dreaming of rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and glaciers that seem to go on forever, a two-day tour from Calgary to Banff and the Columbia Icefield might be just what you need. While I haven’t taken this trip myself, I’ve gone through the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What stands out is how many travelers rave about the stunning scenery and professional guides—both essential for making the most of these iconic spots. I also appreciate that the experience seems well-organized, with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the sights. One potential consideration is the price: at around $434 per person, it’s an investment, but many reviews suggest it offers good value given the packed itinerary.

This tour tends to suit those who enjoy a well-structured, scenic adventure with an emphasis on natural beauty and photography. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see some of the most breathtaking environments the Canadian Rockies have to offer. If you’re looking for a trip that balances guided sightseeing with free time, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Incredible scenery with waterfalls, lakes, glaciers, and mountain views.
• Knowledgeable guides who keep the tour informative and engaging.
• Flexible itinerary options for visiting Banff or Columbia Icefield first.
• Includes major highlights like Johnston Canyon, Banff Gondola, Peyto Lake, and Athabasca Glacier.
• High customer ratings (5.0/5 from 51 reviews) reflecting solid satisfaction.
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned vehicles, hotel stays, and pick-up/drop-off services.

Overview of the Experience

This 2-day adventure is designed to give travelers a satisfying taste of the Canadian Rockies’ most iconic sights, whether you’re coming from Calgary or Banff. The tour is praised for its combination of natural beauty, expert guidance, and thoughtful logistics. At a price of about $434.39, the value is often highlighted by those who want to maximize their time and see key attractions without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Two main packages let you choose whether to visit Banff first or the Columbia Icefield. Either way, you’ll be immersed in jaw-dropping scenery, from waterfalls and mountain vistas to turquoise lakes and ancient glaciers. The trip includes hotel accommodation—commonly at Elk + Avenue Hotel or similar—and provides a good balance of guided tours and free time for exploration or relaxation.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Discovering Banff or Columbia Icefield

Depending on your choice, the first day will either focus on Banff or the Icefield.

If you choose the Banff-first package, your day kicks off with a visit to Surprise Corner. This spot is a picture-perfect view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, with the Spray Valley behind it. It’s known as one of Banff’s top photo spots, offering a dramatic shot of mountain peaks and historic architecture. During the site’s maintenance period (from September to October 2025), it will be closed, so it’s good to confirm ahead.

Next, you’ll visit the Hoodoos Trail, where sandstone pillars have been shaped over millions of years. Each of these natural sculptures is a testament to erosion and geological time, standing about 5 to 7 meters tall. It’s a short stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression of nature’s artistry.

A ride on the Banff Gondola sweeps you to the top of Sulphur Mountain. From there, you’re treated to panoramic views of six mountain ranges—a real highlight for lovers of outdoor vistas and photography. The gondola ride is an optional ticket, so if you’re keen on the views, it’s worth adding it to your package.

The tour then passes Castle Mountain, a striking feature of the landscape, before heading to Johnston Canyon. This popular spot features wooden walkways that wind through narrow rock formations and waterfalls—perfect for a scenic hike and some memorable photos.

Later, you’ll relax by Lake Minnewanka, a large, serene body of water surrounded by mountains, ideal for some quiet reflection and picture-taking. The day finishes in the charming Town of Banff, where you can stroll, browse shops, or pick a cozy spot for dinner.

If you pick the Columbia Icefield first, your day begins with a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, considered one of the most beautiful routes in the world. It offers views of glaciers, waterfalls, and rugged peaks.

Your first stop is the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, where you’ll board an Ice Explorer—a purpose-built vehicle—to traverse the Athabasca Glacier. This part of the tour is especially praised for its breathtaking landscapes and the unique experience of walking on a glacier. The ice explorer trip lasts about 2 hours and is a major highlight.

Next, you’ll visit Peyto Lake, famous for its vibrant turquoise color, caused by glacial rock powder. It’s a quick stop but a great opportunity for photos of this iconic lake shaped like a wolf’s head.

Finally, the day wraps up at Bow Lake, a peaceful spot surrounded by towering mountains and glacier-fed waters. It’s an ideal place to relax and reflect before heading back to Banff or Calgary.

Day 2: Highlights and Free Time

The second day is quite flexible, depending on your package and preferences. If you started in Banff, you’ll head to the Icefield. If you began with the Icefield, you’ll spend your day exploring Banff’s highlights.

The Icefield trip involves less than 2 hours at the Columbia Icefield itself but is packed with views of glaciers and mountain peaks. Many reviews mention the guide’s expertise, making the experience both informative and awe-inspiring.

Back in Banff, you’ll have more free time to explore or relax, with options to revisit favorite spots or indulge in local cuisine. The tour often includes a visit to the hot springs or additional scenic spots depending on the schedule.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and care. Multiple reviewers mention guides like Lisa, James, and Michael, who go out of their way to share stories, provide helpful tips, and ensure everyone feels comfortable.

The scenic spots are what you came for. Photographers and nature lovers will find themselves in paradise with waterfalls, mountain vistas, turquoise lakes, and glaciers. Many of these sites, such as Surprise Corner and Peyto Lake, are iconic and truly awe-inspiring.

The inclusion of hotel stays in Banff makes the experience more comfortable, especially after long days of sightseeing. The daytime excursions are well-paced, with enough free time to explore or relax.

Many travelers have commented on how their guides made the trip more enjoyable and educational. From detailed explanations about geology to personal anecdotes, guides seem to add a lot of value.

The Price and Value

At just over $434, this tour is an investment. But considering the sights covered—multiple scenic spots, a glacier exploration, and a guided experience—it offers good value for those wanting a comprehensive tour without the hassle of self-driving or organizing their own itinerary.

Some reviews mention the tour being well-organized and offering good value, especially with included hotel accommodations and transportation. For travelers short on time but eager to see the main highlights, this package packs a lot into two days.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Book in advance, as this tour tends to fill up about three weeks ahead.
• Pack comfortable shoes and layers—the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
• If you want to do the Banff Gondola or the Ice Explorer, make sure to select those options during booking for a more complete experience.
• Bring your camera or smartphone—these sights are made for photos.
• Be aware of the maintenance schedule for sites like Surprise Corner; some spots might be unavailable during certain periods.
• The tour provides bottled water and ice cleats in winter, but bring hydration and sun protection for summer.
• Hotel check-in is usually at Elk + Avenue Hotel or similar, with rooms accommodating 2-4 people.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who want to see the most famous spots in the Rockies without planning every detail. It’s also suited for those who enjoy guided experiences, as the guides are highly praised for their expertise.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, families with older children or teenagers will find plenty to enjoy. The tour’s pace and activities are designed for a broad audience, but younger kids might find some stops lengthy or challenging.

If you value comfort, convenience, and a well-organized itinerary, this tour checks many boxes. However, if you’re looking for a more flexible, less guided experience, you might want to consider other options or private tours.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour works best for travelers over 6 years old, especially since booster seats are required for children under 6. It’s more suited for families with older kids who are comfortable with long days of sightseeing.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages aren’t included. You’ll want to plan for lunch and snacks during your free time, especially in Banff’s charming town center.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, sun protection, cash or cards for meals and souvenirs, and a camera. Winter travelers should also pack ice cleats if you want to explore glacier areas safely.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour offers some options, the itinerary is pre-set. You can choose to visit Banff or Columbia Icefield first, but the core stops are fixed.

How long is the entire trip?
Each day is approximately full, with around 7-8 hours of touring. Expect early starts around 7:15 am and return in the evening.

Is the tour canceled in bad weather?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, guide, hotel stay, and some attractions like Johnston Canyon and Lake Minnewanka. Tickets for optional activities like the Banff Gondola or Ice Explorer are extra if not purchased in advance.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t eligible for refunds.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comprehensive, scenic tour that hits all the major highlights of Banff and the Columbia Icefield, this 2-day package offers a balanced mix of guided exploration and free time. The stunning landscapes, paired with the expert guides and comfortable accommodations, make it a strong choice for travelers eager to experience the Rockies without the stress of planning.

While the price might seem steep for some, many reviews affirm the value, especially considering the quality of the sights and the professionalism of the guides. For those who want to see the iconic spots, learn interesting facts, and return with plenty of photos, this tour might be just the right fit.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or are traveling with very young children, consider whether the structured schedule aligns with your needs. Overall, it’s a solid, well-loved way to experience some of Canada’s most breathtaking scenery in just two days.