Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper

If you’re planning a trip to Jasper and curious about the iconic Canadian Rockies, a Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk is often recommended. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have, along with the official itinerary and reviews, to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This tour offers a mix of jaw-dropping scenery, engaging activities, and some logistical considerations you’ll want to keep in mind.

What I love about this experience is how it combines scenic drives with active exploration—walking on a glacier and viewing a spectacular skywalk—making it ideal for outdoor lovers and geography enthusiasts alike. Plus, the inclusion of a buffet lunch and the Ice Explorer ride adds value, giving you a well-rounded day out. On the flip side, a possible downside is that the tour can be quite busy, especially during peak season, and the ride back can sometimes be less comfortable if you’re in a packed vehicle.

For anyone eager to witness the majesty of the Rockies up close and learn a bit about glaciers and their environmental significance, this tour generally hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided excursions, don’t mind a full day on the move, and appreciate organized, well-structured outings.

Key Points

• Incredible scenery along the Icefields Parkway and at each stop.
• Includes a glacier ride in an all-terrain Ice Explorer, making the icefield experience extra memorable.
• Skywalk access and buffet lunch are included, adding convenience and variety.
• The tour is seasonal, running only from May through October.
• Expect moderate physical activity—walking on snow and uneven surfaces.
• Group size is limited to 25 people, creating a more intimate experience.

What Is the Columbia Icefield Tour About?

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Alberta’s Rockies, starting from Jasper and taking you on a journey through some of the most iconic sights of the region. It’s a full-day experience, but with a focus on outdoor adventure, scenic views, and learning opportunities.

It’s a well-structured trip that balances sightseeing with engaging activities. You’ll start with convenient hotel pickups in Jasper, ensuring that you don’t have to worry about navigating the area on your own. Then, a comfortable coach takes you along the famous Icefields Parkway, which is often described as one of the most scenic routes in Canada.

The Itinerary: A Step-By-Step Guide

Scenic Drive and Stopping Points

The journey begins with pickups from Jasper hotels, making it easy to start your day without the hassle of renting a car or figuring out logistics. The coach is typically air-conditioned, so you’ll stay comfortable during the roughly 7-hour trip.

Your first stops are designed to give you incredible views and a chance to stretch your legs. The most notable is Athabasca Falls, a powerful cascade where you can spend about 15 minutes marveling at the sheer force of water carving through rock. Travelers often comment on the beauty and roar of the falls, with many noting it’s a must-see spot.

Next, you arrive at the Columbia Icefield Centre, where most of the tour’s highlights happen. Here, you’ll take part in the Icefield Experience—walking on the Athabasca Glacier in an all-terrain Ice Explorer. This part is definitely the highlight for many, as it allows visitors to stand on a real glacier, with snow and ice stretching as far as the eye can see. The guides here are generally praised for being informative and friendly, helping you understand the significance of glaciers and how they are receding.

The Glacier Skywalk

One of the most Instagram-worthy parts of the tour is the Glacier Skywalk. This glass-floored observation platform juts out over the canyon, offering a bird’s-eye view of the landscape below. It’s a quick stop—about 30 minutes—but a memorable one. Reviews mention the Skywalk as a “surreal experience” with amazing views, though crowds can be noticeable, especially in peak months.

Lunch Break

A hot buffet lunch is included, providing a chance to refuel after the morning’s adventures. The food is generally described as decent, though some reviews have mentioned that the buffet can be busy or that items run out. Still, it’s a good opportunity to relax and chat with fellow travelers before heading to the next activity.

Back on the Road

After lunch, you’ll hop onto the Ice Explorer once again—this time out onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier. The all-terrain vehicle is equipped to handle the icy terrain, and the ride is often described as surreal—standing on the glacier and seeing the vast icy surface around you. This is a highlight praised repeatedly, with one reviewer calling it “the highlight of my 13-day trip.”

The last leg of the day involves a more leisurely drive back to Jasper, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and drivers—with names like Jamie, Dustin, and Cassie often mentioned as friendly, informative, and engaging. Their insights add depth to the experience, turning it from just sightseeing into a bit of education.

The scenery on this trip gets glowing praise, with some travelers describing it as “stunning,” “breathtaking,” and “surreal.” Several mention how much the landscape has changed over the years, with glaciers receding and leaving fewer pristine views—a reminder of environmental issues that seem to resonate with visitors.

Food quality varies, but most agree the buffet lunch provides good value, especially considering it’s included in the price. The ride on the Ice Explorer is repeatedly called “ unforgettable,” and many reviews mention how walking on the glacier was the highlight of their trip.

However, some travelers have pointed out logistical challenges, like longer-than-expected return times or crowded buses, especially in the busy season. One reviewer expressed frustration over a disorganized return trip, which extended the day longer than planned and affected dinner reservations.

Price and Value: Is it Worth It?

At around $232 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering the included activities—glacier rides, Skywalk access, lunch, and transportation—it offers a solid value for those eager to explore the Rockies deeply. Many travelers feel it’s a worthwhile splurge given the chance to see so many sites in one day with expert guides.

The quality of the experience, especially the glacier walk and scenic views, often exceeds expectations. However, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer less busy experiences, this tour might feel a bit crowded or rushed, and you might want to consider alternative options like renting a car for a more flexible schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy active sightseeing and are comfortable with a full day of travel and walking on uneven surfaces. It’s perfect for those who want guided expertise and convenience—especially if you’re short on time but want to see multiple highlights.

It also works well for first-time visitors to Jasper and the Rockies who want a rundown. If you’re traveling with others who appreciate scenic landscapes, wildlife, and impressive geological features, this is a great choice.

However, keep in mind that the tour is seasonal—only running from May to October—and can be quite busy during those months. If you’re visiting in the shoulder season or prefer a quieter experience, you might want to plan accordingly.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from select Jasper hotels, so you won’t need to worry about transportation to the starting point.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, including stops, lunch, and travel time.

What is the physical activity level?
You should have a moderate physical fitness level since walking on snow and uneven glacier surfaces is involved. Guides suggest walking slowly and carefully.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the Ice Explorer rides, Glacier Skywalk admission, a hot buffet lunch, air-conditioned transportation, and local taxes.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews frequently praise the guides for being friendly, informative, and engaging—making the experience more meaningful.

What about crowds?
During peak season, the Skywalk and glacier areas can be crowded. Be prepared for some wait times and large group sizes.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, and bad weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an experience that combines spectacular scenery, active exploration, and guided knowledge, this Columbia Icefield Tour from Jasper is a solid pick. It offers a good mix of adventure and comfort, with enough highlights to make it worth the cost. The inclusion of the glacier walk, Skywalk, and lunch makes it a comprehensive day out, though it’s not without its busy moments and logistical quirks.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who want to see the best of Alberta’s natural wonders in one organized outing, especially if they’re comfortable with moderate physical activity. Just be prepared for a full, sometimes bustling day, and come ready to enjoy some of the most iconic sights the Rockies have to offer.

References

• Viator Columbia Icefield Tour from Jasper