Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Calgary

If you’re considering a trip from Calgary to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Rockies, this Columbia Icefield Tour might catch your eye. It’s a full-day adventure that promises spectacular views, a walk on a glacier, and a walk over the famous Glacier Skywalk. From what we gather, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to see the iconic sights of Banff, Lake Louise, and the Icefields Parkway in one stretch.

What really shines about this experience are the stunning landscapes you’ll encounter along the way and the quality of guides and transportation—many reviews praise both the knowledge shared and the comfort of the trip. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and entry to the Skywalk makes it feel like good value, especially given the long, scenic day.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the long duration—the trip lasts about 14.5 hours, which can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to full-day tours. Also, some reviewers noted that parts of the trip, like the stops in Banff or the Skywalk, can feel rushed or crowded.

This tour is best suited for those who want to pack in a lot of sights and are comfortable with long days. If you’re craving a deep dive into some of the Rockies’ most famous spots without the hassle of planning, it’s a solid pick.

Key Points

• Impressive scenery along the Icefields Parkway and around Lake Louise.
• Up-close glacier experience with a ride in the Ice Explorer onto Athabasca Glacier.
• Comprehensive day trip that includes popular highlights like Banff and the Glacier Skywalk.
• Good value considering lunch, transportation, and entry fees are included.
• Long day, so be prepared for a full schedule.
• Highly praised guides that keep the journey engaging and informative.

The Scenic Drive and Famous Stops

We loved the way this trip begins with a scenic drive that quickly evolves from prairie plains to the soaring peaks of the Rockies. Traveling in an air-conditioned coach, you’ll leave Calgary early in the morning—around 6:15 am—so expect an early start. The first standout stop is Lake Louise, a true postcard setting with its turquoise waters and the towering Mount Victoria in the background. This short 15-minute stop offers a chance to snap some photos and soak in the scenery before the crowds arrive.

Next, you’ll make stops at Crowfoot Glacier and Peyto Lake. These spots are well-loved for their stunning vistas and photo ops. One reviewer praised the stops, saying, “The scenery during this tour is amazing.” However, others felt some stops could be shorter or less crowded—so if you’re after a more relaxed pace, be aware it’s a busy tour.

After these sightseeing points, you’ll continue along the Icefields Parkway, widely regarded as one of the world’s most scenic mountain drives. The highway winds past impressive glaciers, emerald lakes, and rugged mountains. It’s the kind of drive where you’re constantly reaching for your camera.

The Athabasca Glacier and Ice Explorer Experience

The highlight for many on this tour is the ride onto Athabasca Glacier in the specially designed Ice Explorer. The vehicle itself is impressive—almost five feet tall tires and a sturdy build made for navigating the icy terrain. Once on the glacier, you’ll get a brief walk to really get a feel for this giant sheet of ice. Some reviews, like Susy_C’s, say, “Getting to walk on the glacier was unbelievable,” which captures the sense of awe this experience offers.

The guided commentary during the ride is informative, and many appreciate the way guides like Rocco or Rusty are attentive and careful. One traveler mentioned how the driver was “informative and careful,” making the journey both fun and safe. You can even taste glacier water—an oddly satisfying detail that adds to the sense of adventure.

Remember, this part of the trip is weather-dependent and seasonal—only running from May to October—so if visiting outside these months, you’d need to consider that.

Exploring the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and Skywalk

After the glacier, you’ll visit the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, where you can take in more views and learn about how glaciers shape the landscape. Included in the tour is a short visit to the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-bottomed walkway that extends out over the Sunwapta Valley. While some reviewers found the Skywalk “less spectacular” than expected, it still offers a different perspective on the mountains below.

The Skywalk is a quick stop—about 30 minutes—but it gives a thrilling vantage point for photos and a sense of walking over the edge of the mountain. Many rave about the views, but if heights aren’t your thing, it’s good to know it’s a pretty short stop.

Lunch and Additional Stops

A hot buffet lunch is included in the tour, which many travelers find quite satisfying given the long hours. One review mentioned the lunch as “great,” noting the variety and quality, while another felt it was just “okay,” especially if you’re expecting gourmet fare. It’s a practical inclusion—fueling up before heading back into the mountains.

The tour also makes stops at Banff, Peyto Lake, and Big Hill—giving you chances for photos and quick explorations. However, some reviews indicated that the time spent in Banff was limited, and you might feel like you’re rushing through rather than fully experiencing these spots.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

The tour operates with a coach that can carry up to 25 travelers, making it a fairly intimate experience. Many reviewers mention that guides like Colin, Jamie, Rob, Grace, and Reeve make the long day enjoyable with their knowledge and humor. The comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle helps make the trip manageable, especially considering the early start and late return.

At a price of around $380 per person, the value hinges on what you want from your day. You’re paying for transportation, guides, entry to the Skywalk, and the glacier ride—all of which would cost significantly more if booked separately. Many reviews describe the trip as “well-organized” and “worth every penny,” especially for those who want a comprehensive experience and don’t mind the long day.

What Could Be Better?

Despite the many positives, a few aspects could be improved. Some travelers found the long hours quite tiring—up to 14.5 hours in total—and pointed out that certain stops felt rushed. The lunch, while generally appreciated, was sometimes called “mediocre” or “cheap.” Also, a handful of reviews mentioned difficulty understanding some guides due to accents, which can detract from the experience if you’re relying on the commentary.

Crowds and limited time at key spots like Banff or the Skywalk might also be a concern for travelers seeking a more relaxed pace or a deeper exploration of each site.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for first-timers to the Rockies wanting a snapshot of the most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing multiple day trips. It’s also good for those who appreciate scenic drives and want the convenience of everything being planned for them. If you’re comfortable with a long day and eager to see glaciers, lakes, and mountains all in one go, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you prefer a slower, more in-depth exploration of any one spot or dislike long bus rides, this might feel a bit rushed.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but because of the long hours and some walking, it’s best for older kids or teenagers used to full-day outings.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a buffet lunch, guided commentary, and admission to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer ride.

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickups begin around 5:50 to 6:15 am from Calgary hotels, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is offered if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Is the Glacier Skywalk worth it?
Most reviews find the Skywalk a fun addition, though perceptions vary. It’s a quick stop that offers a unique perspective, but some found it less spectacular than other parts of the trip.

What about the timing at Banff?
The tour includes some time in Banff and other stops, but some travelers felt they didn’t get enough time to explore fully. The focus remains on the scenic highlights of the Rockies.

Final Thoughts

The Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk is a well-regarded option for those who want to see the Rockies’ most famous sights in one long, scenic day. The guides and transportation receive high praise for making the experience smooth and interesting, and the views are genuinely awe-inspiring.

While it’s a long day—around 14.5 hours—it’s packed with memorable moments: walking on a glacier, gazing at Peyto Lake, and standing on a glass skywalk above a mountain valley. It’s a good choice if you’re comfortable with long bus rides and want a comprehensive, guided experience that covers a lot of ground.

If you’re after gentle exploration or have limited time, it’s worth considering how much of the trip’s packed schedule fits your style. For anyone eager to cross some of the Rockies’ most iconic sights off their list with expert guides and hassle-free planning, this tour offers solid value and unforgettable views.

In the end, this tour is best for adventurous travelers who appreciate storytelling, stunning landscapes, and don’t mind a long, full-day outing. With a bit of prep, you’ll walk away with memories of glaciers, mountain lakes, and perhaps even a sip of glacier water—experiences not everyone gets to have.