From Banff: Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk

If you’re considering a trip from Banff to the Columbia Icefield, you’re probably after jaw-dropping scenery and memorable experiences. This guided tour offers just that—covering the scenic Icefields Parkway, a glacier adventure, and the famous Skywalk platform. While it’s a long day—about 10 hours—you get a well-rounded glimpse of some of the most spectacular sights in Alberta’s wilderness.

What really catches our eye about this tour are the expert guides, who share engaging stories and insights about the landscape, and the opportunity to walk on a real glacier—something many travelers find unforgettable. Plus, the Skywalk offers breathtaking views from a glass-floored platform, heightening the thrill of being out over the Sunwapta Valley.

A potential consideration is the length of the day. Some reviews mention the initial hour and a half spent picking up guests, which can feel a bit drawn out, especially if you’re eager to start exploring. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children, given the physical nature of walking on a glacier and the walking involved on the Skywalk.

This experience suits those who love scenic drives, learning about glaciers, and want a full, immersive day exploring the Canadian Rockies. If you’re after a mix of adventure, stunning views, and expert narration, this trip should definitely be on your list.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: You’ll see pristine lakes, towering mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share engaging stories about the landscape and history.
• Unique Glacier Experience: Ride an Ice Explorer onto Athabasca Glacier and walk on 25,000-year-old ice.
• Thrilling Skywalk: Experience a glass-floored platform hanging over the Sunwapta Valley.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: The cost covers transportation, meals, and entrance tickets, making it straightforward.
• Long but Worthwhile Day: Expect a full 10-hour adventure, with some early pickup time and lots of stops.

Starting from Banff, this tour whisks you along the famous Icefields Parkway, often called one of the most scenic mountain roads in the world. As you leave behind Banff’s charming town and head north, your guide begins sharing stories about the wildlife and geology of the area. If you’ve ever wondered how glaciers have sculpted the landscape, this is the perfect place to find out.

This drive alone is a highlight. The views of turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and glaciers are so stunning that they invite frequent stops for photos. Some of the stops, like Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Lake, are picture-perfect, and you’ll probably want to keep your camera handy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Athabasca Glacier: The Main Attraction

The real highlight here is the ride in a massive all-terrain Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier. This is a highlight for many, and rightly so. Riding directly onto a glacier of over 25,000 years old feels like stepping into a different world. You’ll love the way the guide explains how glaciers have shaped the landscape, giving you context for what you’re seeing.

People like Marcia’s review — describing the glacier walk as “fascinating,” and praising the engaging guides who make the journey enjoyable. You get about 20 minutes to wander on the glacier itself, which is enough time to absorb the scale of the ice and maybe sip water from its virgin streams.

Lunch at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre

After the glacier adventure, a hot buffet lunch at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre provides a much-needed break. The food is generally seen as decent and satisfying—a good fuel for the rest of the day. It’s a moment to relax, share your impressions, and plan the next stop.

The Skywalk Experience

Next, you’ll hop onto the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, perched on the side of the Sunwapta Valley. The platform extends out over the canyon, with a glass floor that offers views straight down. It’s a thrill, especially if you’re comfortable with heights, and the vistas of waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain peaks are breathtaking.

Many travelers, like the ones who called it “quite a victory,” find the Skywalk an exhilarating addition. Just keep in mind that the audio guides might not be available when it’s raining, and you’ll want to bring warm layers since the temperatures can be cooler on the platform.

The transportation is comfortable, with a dedicated guide who keeps the day flowing smoothly. Groups are private, which means a more personalized experience. The tour is priced at $273 per person, but considering what’s included—meals, transportation, entrance tickets, and guided commentary—it offers good value for a full day of exploration.

The duration of 10 hours** means you’ll need to be prepared for an early start and a long day, but most reviews confirm it’s worth it. The experience is rain or shine, so pack waterproof shoes, gloves, and windbreakers.

One thing to note is that this tour isn’t recommended for people with limited mobility or wheelchair users. If your mobility is limited, you might find some of the walks and glacier surface challenging.

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What’s in the Package?

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Banff
• Hot buffet lunch
• Tickets for Ice Explorer and Skywalk
• Light snacks and refreshments
• An onboard guide who shares insights about the landscape

The reviews echo what we expect: knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One traveler from the U.S. said, “The walk on the glacier was very nice,” emphasizing the memorable experience of being on real ice. Another appreciated the “seamless and well-organized” nature of the tour, highlighting the professionalism of the team.

Some mention the long bus ride at the start, but most agree that the scenic stops and engaging guide make it worthwhile. A Canadian traveler noted, “It was an awesome experience,” and appreciated the guide’s friendliness and knowledge.

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who enjoy learning about natural landscapes. If you’re a photographer, the stops at Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier offer fantastic photo opportunities. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see a real glacier up close and walk on ice.

It’s not suited for those with mobility limitations or very young children, given the physical requirements of glacier walking and the heights involved at the Skywalk. But for those who enjoy a full-day adventure with plenty of stunning sights, this tour hits the mark.

This tour from Banff to the Columbia Icefield offers a well-rounded blend of scenic driving, outdoor adventure, and awe-inspiring views. The Ice Explorer ride onto the glacier is a highlight, giving you a tangible connection to the ancient ice, while the Skywalk provides that unbeatable panoramic perspective.

The knowledgeable guides and seamless organization earn praise, making it a hassle-free way to explore the Rockies without the stress of planning every detail yourself. It’s a substantial investment but one that’s reflected in the quality and variety of experiences packed into a single day.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates breathtaking landscapes, learns best with engaging storytelling, and enjoys a bit of adrenaline, this tour could be a perfect fit. Just remember to prepare for the weather and the physical aspect of walking on the glacier.

Is this tour suitable if I want to take photos?
Absolutely. There are several scenic stops like Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier. The Skywalk also offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially if you like capturing panoramic views from unique vantage points.

How long is the bus ride?
The tour includes a long but scenic drive, with the first hour and a half dedicated to pickup and stops along the way. The overall day lasts about 10 hours, so be prepared for a full day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, gloves, waterproof shoes, and a windbreaker are recommended. Also, bring layers since temperatures on the glacier can be cooler, and a bottle to fill with glacier water.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with walking and heights. Not recommended for those with limited mobility or very young children.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, it does. The experience is designed to go ahead regardless of weather, so dress accordingly.

Are meals included?
Yes, a hot buffet lunch is part of the package, which is great for refueling after a morning of adventure.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $273 per person, but considering the transportation, meals, and entrance fees included, it’s a convenient all-in-one experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the reviews suggest it runs in summer months, but it’s designed to operate rain or shine, so check availability for your preferred travel time.

This journey is a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive day of Rocky Mountain scenery, glacier encounters, and stunning vistas without the hassle of navigation. With good organization, expert guides, and memorable sights, it’s a bucket-list adventure that keeps you thinking about those incredible glaciers long after your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: