Can/Banff :Columbia Icefield, Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Lake, Tour

Traveling through the Canadian Rockies is often on every nature lover’s bucket list, and this particular tour promises to pack in a good chunk of that spectacular scenery in about ten hours. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, we’ve looked into what makes this trip appealing—and what might give some travelers pause. The itinerary offers a mix of iconic sights, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of opportunities for photos and awe. But, like any adventure, there are some things to keep in mind.

Two aspects we really appreciate about this tour are the focus on stunning viewpoints like Peyto Lake and Bow Lake, and the high level of guide expertise, which reviewers repeatedly praise. On the flip side, a key consideration is that some activities at the Columbia Icefield are seasonal, so if you’re hoping for the ice explorer ride or skywalk, you’ll need to plan for a future trip after May 3, 2025. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive look at the Rockies without a lot of fuss, and who value expert guiding and breathtaking scenery.

Key Points

• Beautiful variety of stops including lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls
• Expert guides who enhance the experience with local knowledge
• Seasonal limitations on Columbia Icefield activities due to winter closures
• Good value for the price considering the multiple viewpoints and stops
• Small group size (max 13 travelers) for a more personalized trip
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning and bottled water

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This full-day adventure kicks off with pickups from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, with times starting around 8:00 AM in Calgary and slightly later in Canmore and Banff. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a nice touch for such a long day, especially during warmer months. The tour lasts approximately ten hours, including travel time, with a capped group size of just 13 people, making it a manageable and friendly experience.

The tour price is around $80.17 per person, which, considering the number of stops and sights, actually offers quite good value. Keep in mind, this fee covers transportation and bottled water, but not the activities at Columbia Icefield or the Skywalk, which cost an additional CA$120 per person. Also, meals are at your own expense, so packing snacks or arranging for lunch is a good idea if you want to avoid paying premium prices at the Icefield Restaurant.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Lake Louise – The Iconic Start

First stop is Lake Louise, a name that often comes up when discussing the Canadian Rockies. With its turquoise waters framed by towering, snow-capped peaks, it’s hard not to be taken aback. You get about 30 minutes here—enough to snap some photos, soak in the view, or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Reviewers consistently praise this spot, with one noting, “Lake Louise is one of the most iconic destinations in the Rockies.”

Peyto Lake – The Wolf-Shaped Wonder

Next is Peyto Lake, renowned for its vibrant, almost surreal hue and its distinctive wolf-shaped outline. The 45-minute stop here is perfect for capturing those postcard-worthy shots. The viewpoint is one of the most popular in the park for a reason, and the reviews confirm it: “The view of Peyto Lake is unforgettable,” says one traveler. You’ll likely see fellow visitors with cameras in hand, all trying to capture the perfect shot.

Crowfoot Glacier – Nature’s Artwork

A quick 10-minute stop at Crowfoot Glacier offers a different kind of mesmerizing scene. Its unique shape, reminiscent of a crow’s foot, makes it a memorable sight. As glaciers are always changing, this view can vary slightly year to year, adding to the sense of witnessing something fleeting and special.

Columbia Icefield – The Main Attraction (Seasonal)

Here’s where things get interesting. The Columbia Icefield spans over 325 square kilometers, feeding multiple glaciers. Normally, you’d have the chance to ride the Ice Explorer or walk on the Skywalk—both popular highlights. However, because of winter closures, these activities are unavailable from October 15 to May 2, 2024, and will reopen from May 3, 2025. Instead, you’ll have a two-hour stop at the Discovery Centre, which is still worth the visit, especially for those interested in learning about the glaciers and the surrounding environment.

Columbia Icefield Skywalk – Thrilling but Not Included

The Skywalk is a glass-floored walkway extending over the Sunwapta Valley, offering jaw-dropping perspectives of the glacier and the valley below. It’s a feature many travelers look forward to, though it’s not included in the base price. If you decide to add this on, it costs an extra CA$120 per person. Based on reviews, the Skywalk is truly special for its views and adrenaline rush, but you’ll need to plan ahead.

Bow Lake and Waterfowl Lake – Scenic Stops

Traveling along the Icefields Parkway, you’ll stop at Bow Lake for about 30 minutes. It’s famous for its striking blue waters and views of Crowfoot Glacier. A quiet, reflective spot perfect for photos or just taking a breather. Similarly, Waterfowl Lake offers more scenic vistas before heading to the final stops.

Tangle Creek Falls – A Beautiful Waterfall

On the way back, Tangle Creek Falls provides a picturesque, multi-tiered waterfall that’s highly accessible and photogenic. The 30-minute stop here lets you stretch your legs and enjoy a bit more of the natural beauty.

Short Stop at Lake Louise (again)

You get roughly 30 minutes here, which is enough to revisit the lake or grab a quick snack before the tour concludes and you’re returned to your pickup point.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Several reviewers highlight the quality of the guiding, with comments like, “From the moment we met Aashish, it was clear that we were in good hands,” and “He was very knowledgeable and made sure we had a great experience.” The guides seem to go beyond just driving—they provide helpful insights and ensure everyone gets good photos, which is a big plus.

Others appreciated the variety of stops and the ability to see many highlights in one day. “We covered so many amazing spots,” one traveler shared, “and Ashish took time to explain all of them well.” The small group size and personalized attention seem to add to the positive vibe.

However, a couple of reviews mention some initial confusion about pickup locations, and the fact that activities at Columbia Icefield are seasonal might be disappointing for certain travelers expecting the full Ice Explorer experience.

Transportation and Overall Comfort

Travelers consistently note the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and the availability of bottled water, which helps make the long day more pleasant. With a small group maximum of 13, the experience feels more intimate than a large tour bus, and guides can accommodate questions and photos more easily.

Pricing and Value for Money

At around $80.17, this tour is a reasonable deal considering the number of stops and the stunning scenery. The price covers transportation, water, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup, which simplifies logistics. The major extra cost is for activities like the Skywalk or Ice Explorer, which many would consider optional but memorable.

Given the reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and the well-planned stops, many travelers feel they get good value. It’s a day packed with photo opportunities, scenic viewpoints, and expert commentary—all within a manageable schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who wants to see a lot of the Rockies without organizing multiple stops yourself, this tour offers a solid, guided way to do it. It’s particularly suited to travelers who value storytelling and expert guidance, as many reviews highlight guides who go above and beyond.

However, if you’re eager to participate in glacier activities or the skywalk, plan a future trip in the warmer months when these are open. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a scenic road trip atmosphere, want a variety of photo stops, and appreciate the convenience of a small group.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a thorough, picturesque introduction to the stunning Canadian Rockies. With excellent guides, multiple scenic stops, and the flexibility of a small group, it’s a strong choice for anyone wanting to maximize their sightseeing in a single day. The seasonal limitations on some activities are worth noting, but the stops alone deliver plenty of visual wow moments.

While it’s not perfect—some may wish for more time at each stop or activities included—the overall experience seems well worth the price. Good for first-timers, nature lovers, and those wanting a guided, hassle-free day in the mountains.

FAQ

Is the Columbia Icefield activity included in the price?
No, activities like the Ice Explorer ride and Skywalk are extra and cost CA$120 per person. The tour provides a visit to the Discovery Centre instead during winter.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring layers for variable weather, sunscreen, camera, and snacks. The tour includes bottled water, but meals are not included.

How long is the total tour duration?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, including travel time and all stops.

Are the stops suitable for photography?
Absolutely. Most stops are scenic viewpoints perfect for photos, and guides often help with capturing great shots.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify, the focus on scenic viewpoints and short walks suggests it could suit families with older children comfortable with a day outdoors.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 13 travelers, making it a more personal experience.

Are meals included?
No, meals are at your own expense. There is a restaurant at Columbia Icefield, but you need to purchase lunch separately.

How do I book the Skywalk or Ice Explorer?
These are additional activities that can be booked separately during your visit for CA$120 per person.

This tour offers a well-rounded, scenic way to experience the highlights of the Rockies with expert guidance and manageable logistics. Perfect for travelers who want a taste of the mountains without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.