Jasper: Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer Ticket

Planning a trip to Jasper and considering the Columbia Icefield adventure? This tour offers a rare chance to walk on a 25,000-year-old glacier, ride in a specially designed Ice Explorer, and stand on a glass-bottom Skywalk with jaw-dropping views. It’s a well-loved excursion, rated 4.6 out of 5 from thousands of reviews, and for good reason.

What I find particularly appealing about this experience is how it combines educational insights with awe-inspiring scenery. Plus, the opportunity to drink glacier water straight from the ice feels like a genuine connection to nature that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. On the flip side, the tour can get crowded, and some may find the Skywalk underwhelming if expecting a more expansive viewing platform. Still, if eye-opening landscapes and unique glacier encounters appeal to you, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized day trip that balances adventure with learning. It’s ideal for those comfortable with walking on ice, interested in glaciers’ environmental significance, and eager for panoramic views. Families with older children, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a memorable Canadian Rockies experience will find it very rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic Glacier Experience: Walk on and touch 25,000-year-old ice, and drink pure glacier water.
• Unique Transportation: Ride in a specially designed Ice Explorer vehicle, offering a thrilling glacial journey.
• Spectacular Views: The Skywalk offers a glass-bottomed platform 918 feet above Sunwapta Valley.
• Informative Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging stories and facts.
• Crowd Consideration: It can get busy, especially in peak season; afternoon visits might be less crowded.
• Good Value: At $96 per person, it offers a comprehensive glacier adventure with plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Tour Itself

The tour begins at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center, a hub of activity and information. Once there, you’ll meet your guide and group before heading out for the main highlights. The experience is designed to balance entertainment, education, and spectacle.

The Ice Explorer Ride

The centerpiece of the adventure is the Ice Explorer, a massive vehicle built specifically for glacier travel. As you climb aboard, you’ll sense the scale and engineering marvel it represents. The ride typically lasts about an hour, during which your guide will share intriguing facts about the Columbia Icefield and surrounding glaciers. You might find that the stories about how glaciers have shaped the landscape are both fascinating and sobering, especially as guides often discuss the impact of melting glaciers.

From reviews, many appreciate the humor and professionalism of the guides, with comments like, “Andy, our ice field driver, was totally informative and good-humored throughout our trip.” The ride itself offers stunning views and a feeling of being on another planet—an experience that’s tough to beat.

Walking on the Glacier

Once parked on the ice, you’ll have the chance to walk on the glacier for about 20 minutes. This part of the tour is often a highlight, with travelers touching the ancient ice and even tasting the glacier water. Several reviews mention how special it feels to stand on such an old, natural feature. One traveler exclaimed, “Walking around the Glacier was an amazing feeling, completely speechless.”

Walking on the glacier isn’t just about the novelty—it’s also an eye-opener about climate change, with guides sharing insights on how glaciers are retreating. The experience is made even more memorable because you can drink water directly from the ice—an authentic glacier cold refreshment.

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk

After your glacier walk, the next stop is the Skywalk, a glass-bottom platform that extends out over the Sunwapta Valley, 279 meters below. The views from here are sensational, showcasing the rugged mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. Several reviews describe it as “breathtaking” and “worth the visit,” though some mention that it is a smaller platform than expected.

The Skywalk includes an audio guide available in multiple languages, and the experience is designed to heighten your senses as you step onto the transparent floor. Remember, it’s a crowd favorite, so expect some busy moments, but you’re free to take your time and soak in the vistas.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guides and Drivers

One of the standout features, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable and friendly staff. Guides like Lars, Bryan, and others are praised for their storytelling, humor, and professionalism. They make the experience engaging and informative, helping visitors understand the significance of glaciers and environmental concerns.

The Ride and Walk Experience

The combination of the Ice Explorer ride and the glacier walk creates a well-rounded adventure. Travelers often mention how smooth and well-organized the process is, with minimal wait times and clear instructions. The walk on the ice is a rare opportunity, and many say it’s a “once-in-a-lifetime” moment.

The Views and Photo Opportunities

From the glacier surface to the Skywalk, vistas of mountains, waterfalls, and glaciers are plentiful. The chance to capture these views makes this tour a favorite for photography enthusiasts. The sheer scale of the glacier and the valley views are truly unforgettable.

Value for Money

At $96 per person, the tour offers quite a bit—glacier walking, a scenic ride, and the Skywalk. Reviewers consistently say they felt it was worth the cost, especially considering the unique experiences packed into a single day.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book early and aim for the afternoon if you want to avoid crowds, as mornings tend to be busier.
• Bring warm clothing, gloves, and a waterproof jacket—the weather on the glacier can change quickly.
• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, preferably hiking or hiking-style footwear, for stability on the ice.
• Don’t forget your camera—the scenery is incredible, and you’ll want to capture every moment.
• You can stay on the glacier for approximately 20 minutes, but take your time to savor the experience.
• Hydrate with glacier water, a unique refreshment that many reviews highlight.
• Be aware that weather and visibility can impact the tour; it may be rescheduled or canceled in poor conditions.

The Overall Experience: Who Is It For?

This tour offers a blend of adventure, education, and stunning scenery, making it highly appealing for travelers who want a full day of outdoor exploration. It’s particularly suitable for those comfortable with walking on ice and interested in glaciers’ environmental importance.

Families with older children—who can handle the cold and walking—will appreciate the hands-on glacier experience. Nature and scenery lovers will find the views compelling, and those eager to learn about climate change will value the guides’ insights.

While the Skywalk might not satisfy those expecting a massive viewing platform, it’s still a fun, adrenaline-infused addition to the glacier adventure. The tour’s well-organized nature and friendly guides make it accessible and enjoyable, even for first-time visitors.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and guides are helpful, but walking on the glacier requires some stability. If you have specific mobility concerns, it’s best to check with the provider.

How long do I spend on each part of the tour?
You can expect about 20 minutes on the glacier, plus time at the Skywalk. The entire experience is designed to fit into roughly a day, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy views.

Does the tour include transportation from Jasper?
No, you need to make your own way to the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center. The tour includes shuttle service from the center to the glacier and Skywalk.

Is it worth the price?
Most reviews agree that at $96, it offers good value given the combination of glacier walk, scenic ride, and Skywalk. The experiences are unique and memorable.

Can I do this tour in the afternoon?
Yes, the tour is usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening. An afternoon visit may be less crowded and more relaxed.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, camera, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. No large bags or pets are allowed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour could be canceled or rescheduled due to poor weather conditions. Book early to allow for flexibility, and always check the forecast.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a once-in-a-lifetime look at the majestic glaciers of the Canadian Rockies, this Columbia Icefield tour is a fantastic choice. The blend of scenic rides, walks on ancient ice, and the thrill of the Skywalk makes it a comprehensive adventure for those eager to see one of the most remarkable natural wonders of Canada.

While it’s a popular and sometimes crowded experience, the knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and authentic glacier walk make it worth the effort. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an active, educational, and visually stunning day out. Just go prepared for varying weather and large crowds, and you’ll come away with memories that last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: