From Banff: Athabasca Glacier and Columbia Icefield Day Trip

If you’re planning a visit to Banff and looking for a day trip that combines jaw-dropping scenery with some truly iconic experiences, this tour might just be what you need. It’s a full 11-hour adventure that takes you along the famous Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic routes in the world, culminating in close-up encounters with glaciers and spectacular viewpoints.

What makes this experience stand out for us are two key things: the expertly guided tours that make navigating the vast wilderness feel effortless and the variety of stops that keep the day engaging—from glacier walks to glass-floored skywalks.

That said, keep in mind it’s a long day and involves some bus rides, so if you’re not a fan of extended travel or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering. However, if you’re seeking awe-inspiring natural beauty with minimal fuss, this trip is likely to hit the spot. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who love scenery, enjoy a bit of adventure, and appreciate expert guides sharing local insights.

Key Points

• Guided experience removes the stress of navigation and enriches the trip with stories and facts.
• The Ice Explorer ride onto Athabasca Glacier offers a unique opportunity to walk on ancient ice.
• The Glacier Skywalk provides panoramic views from a glass platform on the edge of the cliffs.
• Multiple scenic stops like Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and the Sunwapta Valley add variety.
• A hearty packed lunch keeps you energized amid the day’s activities.
• High ratings reflect consistent quality and memorable moments according to hundreds of reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

When thinking about booking a tour like this, the first thing to consider is value. At $249 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, but many reviews highlight that the experience delivers on its promises. You’re paying for a comprehensive day that includes round-trip transportation, a guided narrative, and access to several major sights. If you want an easy, curated way to see the best of the Icefields area without the hassle of planning or driving, this tour brings a lot to the table.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

The day starts early, with pickup from various hotels around Banff—most pickups are between 7:25 and 8:05 AM, depending on your location. This is important because early starts mean you’ll beat the crowds, especially at popular spots like the Columbia Icefield and Skywalk. Plus, you get a full day of sightseeing, so arriving early and leaving late maximizes your time on the ground.

Once you hop on the modern mini-bus, your guide takes the wheel (literally and figuratively), allowing you to relax. The scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway is a highlight in itself. We loved how the guide pointed out landmarks like Bow Lake and the headwaters of the Bow River, giving you insight into the landscape’s formation and significance.

The Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre and Ice Explorer

The main attraction is the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure, which includes a ride in an Ice Explorer—an impressive, purpose-built vehicle capable of traversing the glacier’s uneven surface. Many reviews mention how this is a highlight — walking onto the Athabasca Glacier and drinking fresh glacier water feels like touching a piece of history. The guides here are often knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both educational and fun.

The Glacier Skywalk: A Thrilling Viewpoint

Next, you’ll visit the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored platform that juts over a 918-foot drop into Sunwapta Valley. It’s a bit of a thrill—standing on glass with the vast valley stretching beneath you. Visitors consistently describe it as “dazzling” and “breathtaking.” The 1-kilometer walkway offers excellent views of glaciers perched above and the rugged landscape below.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Stops Along the Parkway

Throughout the day, you’ll stop at several iconic locations. Bow Lake is often praised for its mirror-like surface and mountains reflected in the water. Peyto Lake, another favorite, is renowned for its wolf-shaped shoreline and vibrant turquoise hue. These stops aren’t just photo ops; they give you a chance to stretch, breathe, and really take in the scale of the Rockies.

Lunch and Rest Periods

A well-packaged lunch provides sandwiches, juice, fruit, chips, and brownies—more than enough to keep you fueled. Several travelers have remarked that the lunch exceeded expectations, with one reviewer calling it “delicious” and “more filling than I expected.” This is key because the day is packed, and having a hearty meal helps avoid fatigue.

End of the Day and Return

On the return trip, your guide will point out additional scenery and perhaps wildlife if you’re lucky. The trip concludes back in Banff, typically around 6-7 PM, giving you plenty of time for a relaxed dinner or a stroll through town.

What Travelers Love and What Could Be Better

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the journey interesting and engaging. Several mention guides like Jake, Rob, Ella, and Sebastian, noting how their stories and enthusiasm add depth to the experience. The comfortable, modern transportation also gets high marks, with many travelers appreciating the space and smooth ride.

The scenic stops and views are often described as “stunning” and “beautiful,” making it clear that this tour delivers on its promise of spectacular landscapes. Fun details like touching the glacier ice and drinking glacier water are memorable highlights.

Food and lunch get glowing reviews, with many noting the quality and quantity as surprisingly good for a packed lunch. You’ll find plenty of positive comments about the overall value, with reviews mentioning how the experience is worth the cost given the scenery and guided service.

However, some points of consideration include the long day — it’s roughly 11 hours — which might be a lot for those with mobility issues or very young children. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to coordinate your own transport to the meeting points if not staying centrally accessible.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who appreciates guided tours that handle all logistics, love breathtaking scenery, and want to avoid driving on winding mountain roads, this is a great choice. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure (glacier walk) and sightseeing, as well as those eager to learn from friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s also well-suited for first-time visitors to the Rockies who want a rundown in one day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup. You’ll need to meet at one of the designated pickup points or arrange your own transportation.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and sunglasses are recommended. Since it involves outdoor stops and glacier walking, dress in layers.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 11 hours, so be prepared for an early start and a full day of sightseeing.

Are meals included?
Yes, a packed lunch with a sandwich, juice, fruit, chips, and brownies is provided. It offers good value for a full-day trip.

Can children participate?
Yes, but keep in mind the long duration and outdoor activities. Check with your tour provider if you have specific needs.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic drives, glacier exploration, and the Skywalk creates a varied and memorable experience, all guided by friendly experts.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the tour aims to be accessible, the glacier walk and Skywalk involve some walking and standing. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, scenery-rich day that balances adventure with comfort, this trip from Banff hits the mark. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey more than just a sightseeing bus ride. The views are spectacular—from glaciers and waterfalls to mountain vistas—and the experience of walking on a glacier and standing on the Skywalk makes for unforgettable memories.

While it is a long day, many reviews confirm it’s worth every minute. The value lies in the ease of having logistics handled for you and the chance to see some of Canada’s most iconic landscapes without the hassle of navigation or planning.

Whether you’re a first-timer in Banff or a seasoned Rockies explorer, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and expert guidance. It’s an experience that most travelers agree is well worth the price and time—if you’re ready for a full day immersed in nature’s grandeur.

Remember: Always check the latest availability and confirm your pickup points in advance. Pack comfortable clothes, and prepare for a day full of stunning sights and memorable moments. Happy travels!

You can check availability for your dates here: