Banff: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Parkway, Bow & Peyto Lake

Planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies? You’re in for some truly breathtaking sights, and this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the most iconic spots in the region. While it might not cover absolutely everything, it packs in a lot of what makes this area special—including glaciers, turquoise lakes, and incredible mountain vistas—all in just one day.

We particularly like that this tour is led by knowledgeable guides who seem genuinely passionate about sharing their love for the Rockies. The opportunity to ride on a rugged Ice Explorer and get close to the Athabasca Glacier is a highlight that many travelers rave about. Plus, the views of Peyto Lake and Bow Lake are described as stunning, providing many hours of picture-perfect moments.

However, a potential downside is that some activities, like the Skywalk and Ice Explorer ride, are not included in the base price and require additional tickets. For those on a tight budget or with limited time, this might mean extra planning or expense. Also, the tour is quite full-day, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a packed schedule and early mornings.

This experience is ideal if you’re after a comprehensive, scenic introduction to the Rockies—especially if you want to see glaciers, lakes, and mountain panoramas without spending multiple days or planning each stop yourself. It’s a good fit for first-timers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those wanting a taste of the region’s highlights.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The tour covers some of the most iconic spots in the Rockies, including Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the Columbia Icefield.
• Guided Experience: Led by local guides praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making navigation and explanations easier.
• Activities at Additional Cost: The Ice Explorer ride and Skywalk are not included in the price and need to be purchased separately.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel is by air-conditioned van, making long drives more pleasant and manageable.
• Value for Money: At $86, this tour offers an accessible way to see major highlights, with positive reviews emphasizing its good value.
• Long Day: It’s a full-day trip, so be prepared for early start and some hours on the road.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off very early, with pickup options in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff, depending on your booking. The transportation is comfortable, modern, and climate-controlled, which makes the long drives between stops much more tolerable. The guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendly nature, helps set the tone for the day, making sure everyone feels comfortable and informed.

The Scenic Drive Along Icefields Parkway

One of the best parts of this tour is the Icefields Parkway, often called one of the most scenic drives in the world. This 232-kilometer stretch between Calgary and the Rockies is packed with jaw-dropping views—towering mountains, glaciers, and serene lakes. Several reviews highlight just how breathtaking the scenery is, with one traveler noting that “Icefield Parkway was a breathtaking view.” It’s a long drive, but the constantly changing vistas keep your eyes busy and your camera busy as well.

Columbia Icefield and the Ice Explorer

The star attraction is undoubtedly the Columbia Icefield, the largest ice field in North America’s Rockies. Here, you’ll have the chance to hop aboard a rugged Ice Explorer, a specially designed vehicle built to traverse glaciers. This part of the experience is a big hit, with travelers describing the ride as “thrilling” and “awesome.” However, keep in mind this activity comes at an additional cost—something you should plan for if you want to participate, as it’s not included in the initial ticket price.

Once on the glacier, you get a close-up view of the Athabasca Glacier, which is around 10,000 years old. The experience of walking on or near this vast sheet of ice feels surreal, especially for first-timers. One review mentions, “the glacier is solid and not sunny,” indicating that the conditions can vary, so dressing warmly is wise.

More Great Tours Nearby

Peyto Lake and Bow Lake

After the glacier, your tour continues to awe-inspiring Peyto Lake and Bow Lake. Both are known for their incredible turquoise color, fed by glacier melt, and their perfect mountain backdrops. Travelers frequently comment on the views being “breathtaking” and “serene,” perfect for photographs or just soaking in nature’s beauty. Peyto Lake, with its wolf-shaped outline, is a particular favorite for many, and you’ll often find it crowded but still worth the visit.

Skywalk and Other Optional Add-ons

While the Skywalk is mentioned as part of the tour’s highlights, it’s not included in the base price and requires a separate ticket. The Skywalk offers a glass-floored observation platform extending over the Glacier Skywalk, giving you a vertiginous perspective of the mountains below. Based on reviews, many find it worth the extra expense for the thrill and views, but others might prefer to skip it if on a tight budget or pressed for time.

Overall Experience and Value

Many travelers express that the entire day is well-organized and that the guides do a fantastic job of balancing informative commentary with allowing time to explore. One reviewer said, “Tammy our guide was excellent,” emphasizing how important knowledgeable, friendly guides are to making the experience enjoyable.

The price of $86 per person is quite reasonable considering it covers transportation, guiding, and access to some key sites. Additional costs for activities like the Ice Explorer and Skywalk should be factored in, but even without them, the tour offers an impressive overview of the Rockies’ highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a well-structured, scenic day trip with plenty of picture-worthy stops, this tour is a strong choice. It suits those who want a guided experience with minimal planning and enjoy seeing nature’s grand landscapes from a comfortable vehicle. It’s especially good for first-time visitors, those with limited time, or anyone who appreciates a mix of outdoor adventure and stunning vistas.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This trip offers a practical, engaging way to see some of the most iconic sights in the Canadian Rockies without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. The combination of glacier views, turquoise lakes, and mountain panoramas makes for memorable moments that many travelers cherish long after their trip ends.

The guides are often praised for their friendliness and expertise, which enhances the experience, especially if you’re new to the area. The long but scenic drives mean you’ll need patience and an appreciation for natural beauty, but most find the journey as rewarding as the destinations.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or looking to do every activity, you’ll want to budget for some extras. Also, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or have specific interests, this guided day trip might feel a bit structured.

This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, reasonably priced day tour showcasing the best of the Rockies—ideal for those who want a balance of adventure, comfort, and incredible scenery.

FAQ

Are the activities like the Ice Explorer ride and Skywalk included in the tour?
No, these activities are optional and come at an additional cost. The Ice Explorer ride to the glacier and the Skywalk are not included in the base price.

What is the duration of the tour?
It’s a full-day experience, usually starting in the morning and returning in the evening, so be prepared for a long day on the road.

Where do the tours pick up from?
Pickups are available at designated locations in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff, depending on your booking. The exact meeting point may vary.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s focus on scenic views and outdoor stops can be enjoyed by most travelers. Consider the length and activity levels if traveling with young children.

Do I need to buy tickets for activities beforehand?
Yes, activities like the Ice Explorer and Skywalk need to be purchased before the tour starts, as they are not included in the main price.

What should I bring?
Pack warm clothes, especially if visiting the glacier, as it’s cold and windy. Bringing your own lunch from May 3 to Mid-October is recommended, but check the specific tour details.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Can I join the tour if I’m staying outside Calgary?
Yes, pickup options extend to Banff and Canmore, so you can join from locations near those areas as well.

This tour balances the thrill of seeing glaciers and lakes with the comfort of guided transportation. For travelers eager to tick off some of the Rockies’ most famous sights in a single day, it provides an accessible, enjoyable experience—especially if good guides and stunning views are your priorities.

You can check availability for your dates here: