Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk

Explore the Canadian Rockies’ Largest Icefield for $91.12

The Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk offers a memorable way to experience the heart of the Canadian Rockies. For $91.12 per person, this 3-hour guided adventure takes you from the Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre in Jasper, with a combination of scenic drives, glacier walks, and breathtaking views. The tour is highly recommended by 92% of participants and features a mobile ticket for easy access.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a mix of educational insights, scenic beauty, and unique attractions. While the glacier walk and Skywalk often impress, the tour’s popularity and crowd levels can make some experiences feel rushed. Still, with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, it offers a good value for a day in the mountains.

Key Points

• Includes a guided ice explorer tour to the Athabasca Glacier
• Access to the Glacier Skywalk with views over a dramatic cliff edge
• Walk on the glacier and stand on the glass-bottom Skywalk
• Tour departs every 15-30 minutes from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
• Most travelers rate it 4.7 out of 5, citing informative guides and stunning vistas
• Price is $91.12, with no transportation included to the meeting point

Starting Point at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre

The tour begins at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre located at 93 Icefields Pkwy, Jasper, AB. From here, the experience unfolds with a guided drive in a rugged ice explorer vehicle. The departure times are flexible, with every 15-30 minutes, allowing for a smooth start regardless of your schedule.

Once at the Discovery Centre, the journey into the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies begins. The center itself offers impressive views of towering mountains, glaciers, and pristine snow, setting the perfect scene for this adventure. Remember, your ticket is valid for any departure on the day of booking, providing flexibility in planning.

Riding the Rugged Ice Explorer to Athabasca Glacier

The core of the tour is the guided ride in a specialized ice explorer vehicle. These large, rugged vehicles are designed to handle the icy terrain and provide a narrated journey through the glacier environment.

Along the way, the guide explains glacier formation, environmental impacts, and regional ecosystem details. The drive covers notable sights such as the Weeping Wall, Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake, offering some of the most scenic landscapes in Canada.

Reaching the Athabasca Glacier, visitors have the chance to step out and walk on the glacier surface. You can even fill your water bottle with snowmelt, highlighting the purity of the glacial water. The walk on the glacier lasts just a few minutes but provides an excellent photo opportunity and a tangible connection to nature.

Visiting the Glass-Bottom Glacier Skywalk

After the glacier walk, the tour includes a stop at the Glacier Skywalk. This glass-bottom walkway extends out over a cliff’s edge, offering spectacular views of the canyon below. Visitors can enjoy refreshments at the Skywalk area before stepping onto the transparent platform.

The Skywalk’s engineering marvel provides a unique perspective over the landscape, giving a sense of height and openness. Though the walk can be busy, the views and the experience of walking on glass over the canyon make it a highlight of the tour.

Scenic Drive Past Iconic Mountain Landmarks

The return trip in the ice explorer takes in some of the most scenic parts of the Canadian Rockies. Pass by the Weeping Wall, a stunning cliff face where water seeps over the rocks, and the Crowfoot Glacier, famous for its distinctive shape. The drive also offers views of Peyto Lake, with its bright turquoise waters, and Bow Lake, framed by snow-capped peaks.

This drive combines scenic vistas with informative commentary, making it more than just transportation; it’s an opportunity to learn about the landscape, glaciers, and environmental change from experienced guides.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Most participants find the tour accessible and well-organized, but there are some important tips. Weather conditions can impact the experience; if poor weather causes cancellations, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Visitors should wear waterproof or water-resistant shoes because the glacier surface can be slushy. Proper footwear is also advised on the Skywalk, as it involves walking on glass. Layered clothing helps manage variable temperatures, especially since high winds can make it feel colder.

The group size is limited to 14 travelers, creating a more intimate environment and allowing guides to provide personalized attention. Be aware that transportation to the Discovery Centre from other locations is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Highlights and Limitations Noted by Participants

The guides on this tour receive rave reviews for their knowledge, humor, and engaging delivery, with guides like Jackson, Mitch, and Kate standing out. The glacier walk and Skywalk offer stunning views that many consider highlights.

However, some reviews mention crowd levels at the Skywalk, which can lessen the sense of solitude, and short glacier walks that feel somewhat rushed. Lineups and waiting for buses at the start have been reported, so arriving early is advised.

A few participants point out inconsistencies in online information, such as the need to arrive 15 minutes early or the standby process during busy days. It’s important to wear sturdy, non-slip shoes and to manage expectations for glacier walking duration and crowding.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Educational Glacier Adventure

The Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk offers a compelling combination of scenic drives, glacier exploration, and dramatic viewpoints. For $91.12, travelers gain access to one of Canada’s most famous glaciers, expert-guided commentary, and a spectacular glass-bottom skywalk.

While the glacier walk is brief and some logistical aspects like crowd levels and waiting times can be challenging, the overall experience provides excellent value, especially for those interested in natural landscapes, environmental change, and engineering marvels. This tour suits visitors who appreciate scenic drives with informative guides and are comfortable with short outdoor glacier walks and busy sightseeing spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and while most travelers can participate, footwear and weather conditions should be considered for younger kids.

What should I wear on the tour?
Waterproof shoes are highly recommended, especially for walking on the glacier. Layered clothing helps manage the variable mountain temperatures.

How long does the glacier walk last?
The glacier walk is brief, offering the chance to step onto the ice and fill water bottles, but it does not involve extensive hiking.

Can I attend the Skywalk at any time?
Yes, once at the Glacier Skywalk, access is available during the designated stop, and the views are accessible regardless of the schedule.

Is transportation to the Discovery Centre included?
No, transportation to and from the Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre from other locations is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly.