Calgary/Banff : Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot & lakes

Discover the Canadian Rockies on a Full-Day Small-Group Tour

This 11.5-hour guided tour offers an immersive experience into the breathtaking landscapes of Alberta’s Canadian Rockies. Starting from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, the tour is operated by Banff Trip Planner Inc., which holds a 4.5-star reputation. The tour emphasizes small-group intimacy, with limited to 14 participants, ensuring personalized attention from an experienced local guide. The journey includes scenic drives, iconic lakes, awe-inspiring glaciers, and the chance to walk on the Athabasca Glacier and the Glass Skywalk.

While the Columbia Icefield Adventure and Skywalk are closed from October 13 to May 13, the tour compensates by visiting Lake Louise and Marble Canyon / Johnston Canyon in winter months. Expect an active, scenic, and informative day full of stunning views and photo opportunities. This tour suits those who appreciate nature, photography, and scenic drives and are comfortable with walking on uneven surfaces.

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Key Points

• Duration: 11.5 hours with a small group of up to 14 participants
• Start points include Calgary, Canmore, or Banff
• Highlights: walking on Athabasca Glacier, visiting Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Waterfowl Lakes
• Includes: scenic Icefields Parkway drive, Skywalk, and stops at Crowfoot Glacier and Johnston Canyon
• Note: The Icefield Glacier Adventure and Skywalk are closed from October to May; winter visits include Lake Louise and Marble Canyon

Scenic drives along Icefields Parkway

The journey begins with a comfortable vehicle taking you along the famous Icefields Parkway, renowned as one of the world’s most scenic highways. This route showcases towering peaks, glacial valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. The drive offers numerous photo stops, including Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, and Mistaya Canyon—each providing dramatic scenery and perfect photo opportunities.

The tour emphasizes breathtaking viewpoints that capture the grandeur of the Rockies, with the guide sharing insider insights into the regional landscape and geology. The stops are well-paced, allowing ample time to appreciate each location without feeling rushed.

Walking on the Athabasca Glacier and Special Vehicle Ride

One of the most memorable highlights is the Athabasca Glacier, a vast and ancient ice formation. The tour provides a special vehicle ride that takes visitors onto the glacier’s surface, giving an up-close experience of this natural wonder. The walk on the glacier is both exciting and educational, with the guide explaining the glacier’s features and history.

This activity is part of the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure, which is typically included in the tour. In the off-season (October 13 to May 13), this activity is unavailable, but winter visitors replace it with visits to Lake Louise and Marble Canyon.

The Glass Skywalk: Dramatic Views of Sunwapta Valley

The Glass Skywalk is a standout feature of this tour. Suspended above Sunwapta Valley, it offers panoramic views of the rugged landscape below. The guided walk on the Skywalk takes around one hour, providing ample time to marvel at the scenery and take stunning photos from this elevated vantage point.

The Skywalk experience complements the day’s exploration by adding a thrilling perspective and dramatic vistas of the valley and surrounding peaks. Visitors should be aware that the Skywalk is closed from October 13 to May 13.

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Iconic Lakes: Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Waterfowl Lakes

The tour makes stops at some of the most photogenic lakes in the Rockies. Bow Lake serves as a tranquil spot with crystal-clear waters and views of Mount Jimmy. The stopover here lasts approximately 35 minutes, perfect for photos and a quick walk.

Peyto Lake is renowned for its wolf-shaped shoreline and vibrant turquoise waters. The 50-minute visit includes a guided overview, making it ideal for capturing postcard-worthy images.

Waterfowl Lakes offers another scenic stop, surrounded by towering peaks and serene waters. These lakes highlight the pristine beauty of the Rockies, giving visitors multiple opportunities for landscape photography.

Johnston Canyon and Waterfalls

In winter months, the tour visits Johnston Canyon, including Lower and Upper Falls. The 50-minute walk takes you through a canyon corridor, with catwalks over the canyon and views of cascading waterfalls. The route is suitable for most walking abilities but involves navigating uneven surfaces.

In the summer, this stop may be replaced with other scenic locations due to seasonal closures, but the canyon remains a highlight for its dramatic waterfalls and natural beauty.

Practical Details: Pickup, Group Size, and Weather

The tour provides pickup options from Calgary (at the Delta Hotel), Canmore, and Banff. Pickup times are 7:30 AM in Calgary, 9:00 AM in Canmore, and 9:30 AM in Banff. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience and allows for fewer crowds at each stop.

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and a camera. Since the weather can change rapidly, dressing in layers is recommended. The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or a fear of heights.

Limitations and Seasonal Considerations

The Columbia Icefield Adventure and Skywalk are closed from October 13 to May 13, so winter visitors will explore Lake Louise and Marble Canyon instead. This makes the tour flexible across seasons while maintaining its scenic appeal.

Participants should note that tickets for the Icefield Adventure and Skywalk are not included in the tour price, and advance booking is recommended if they wish to participate in these activities, especially during the summer months.

Final Thoughts on the Rockies Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive day exploring Alberta’s iconic landscapes, with a balanced mix of guided storytelling, scenic drives, and up-close glacier experiences. The focus on a small group makes it a more intimate way to see the Rockies, with plenty of photo opportunities and informative commentary.

While some activities are seasonal, the inclusion of lakes, viewpoints, and the Skywalk ensures a memorable visit regardless of the time of year. The expert guides and careful pacing make this a solid choice for those seeking a full immersion in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to all listed stops. Tickets for the Columbia Icefield Adventure and Skywalk are not included but can be purchased separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and has activities like glacier walking and the Skywalk, which may not be suitable for very young children or those afraid of heights.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. Dressing in layers is advised due to weather variability.

What are the pickup locations and times?
Pickup is available at Calgary (7:30 AM), Canmore (9:00 AM), and Banff (9:30 AM). Participants should arrive a few minutes early for the pickup.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Booking can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights due to walking on uneven surfaces and visiting heights such as the Skywalk.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby