Explore The Canadian Rockies on a Columbia Icefield Adventure
The Columbia Icefield is a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder, and it is a must-see for anybody visiting the Canadian Rockies. The Columbia Icefield is one of the largest icefields in North America, covering an area of 325 square kilometers (125 square miles). It’s located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, straddling the border between British Columbia and Alberta. The icefield is made up of several glaciers, including the Athabasca Glacier, which is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

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The Unique Experience Of The Columbia Icefield
The Columbia Icefield tour offers you a unique experience that is packed with fun, adventure, and lasting memories. Join us for an incredibly journey and take advantage of the amazing opportunities that the Columbia Icefield offers for a day filled with unforgettable moments.
From the specially designed Ice Explorers, which can take you onto the massive Athabasca Glacier, to the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform suspended 280 meters (900+ feet) above Sunwapta Valley. You can enjoy guided tours, to learn more about the area’s natural history and take time to marvel at the beautiful views while having a snack along the way. Whether you’re looking forward to an educational experience or just looking to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views in North America, the Columbia Icefield tour is a perfect choice for anybody who wants to experience the magic and wonder of Canada’s natural landscapes.
Book your tickets today and experience the power and majesty of the Columbia Icefield!
The One-of-a-kind Drive & Tour to the Columbia Icefields
Climb aboard the Ice Explorer (a six-wheeled behemoth of a vehicle) and drive across the surface of this glittering sheet of ice. These massive vehicles are specially designed to travel across the ice, so you can get up close and personal with this natural wonder.
Sit back and enjoy the ride along the Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most stunning scenic drives. Because you don’t have to navigate or watch the road, this tour lets you focus on the amphitheatre of mountains towering above. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife at the edges of the forest.
Dig into a hearty mountain picnic and take a photo stop at Bow Lake, one of the largest glacier-fed lakes in Banff National Park, against the backdrop of the Crowfoot Glacier. You’ll also visit scenic Peyto Lake (when access permits) or lower Waterfowl Lake along the Icefields Parkway, a stunning glacier lake set against Mt Chephren.
Getting thirsty? You’ll have a chance to drink pure, cold water straight from the glacier.
Incredible Views On The Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Step out onto the glass-bottomed Skywalk and feel the fresh air on your face as you gaze down 280 meters (918 feet) to the Sunwapta Valley below. The views are simply breathtaking, from the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies to the glacial crevasses and shimmering ice below. You’ll enjoy popular sights like Mount Athabasca, Mount Columbia, and Mount Robson. You’ll also see the Sunwapta River winding its way through the valley.
The Skywalk is a truly unique experience that will take your breath away. It’s the perfect way to see the beauty of the Canadian Rockies from a whole new perspective.
Schedule & Availability: Book Ahead To Reserve Your Spot On The Columbia Icefields Tour
The Columbia Icefields tours are typically available from May through October. However, seats are limited and they fill up fast. We strongly recommend that you purchase your ticket while making travel plans to ensure your spot is saved.
We also offer terrific alternative tours throughout the year:
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Rose's Pick
"Besides the amazing views you'll have a chance to try delicious water straight from the glacier." - Rose , Manager of Guiding Operations
Columbia Icefield Parkway Tour Reviews
The best parts of the tour for most people include the following:
Columbia Icefields Glacier Adventure and Skywalk
Icefields Parkway
Mountain Picnic Lunch
Crowfoot Glacier
Glacier Lakes
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Rose's Pick
"Besides the amazing views you'll have a chance to try delicious water straight from the glacier." - Rose , Manager of Guiding Operations
Columbia Icefield Parkway Tour Reviews
Choose from the following lunch options:
- Chicken Club Wrap: mayo, chicken, bacon, lettuce and tomato on a tortilla wrap
- Roast Beef Sandwich: premium roast beef slices with lettuce, tomato, swiss cheese and horseradish mayo on a kaiser bun
- Vegetarian Wrap: tomato, cucumber, bell pepper, lettuce and hummus on a tortilla wrap
- Green salad with chicken (gluten-free): romaine lettuce, tomato, green onion, cucumber and diced chicken with french dressing
Lunches also include fruit, juice, salted potato chips and two bite brownies.
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Rose's Pick
"Besides the amazing views you'll have a chance to try delicious water straight from the glacier." - Rose , Manager of Guiding Operations
Columbia Icefield Parkway Tour Reviews
A picnic lunch is included with your choice of menu options. Please note that lunch is not included for infants.
Most guests choose to self-drive into Banff, although please note that you will need to find parking in Banff that exceeds the duration of the tour. Please refer to the Town of Banff website for general parking information, or the banffparking.ca website for live parking availability. For guests staying in Canmore, you can also use the Roam bus service and disembark at the Banff High School. The closest pick up point to the Banff High School is across the road at the Elk and Avenue Hotel.
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Rose's Pick
"Besides the amazing views you'll have a chance to try delicious water straight from the glacier." - Rose , Manager of Guiding Operations
Columbia Icefield Parkway Tour Reviews
- Children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
- Early and late season road / trail closures may limit access to some areas.
- Infants (5 and under) are free of charge, but this does not include any food.
- Photo ID may be required for identity verification.
- By participating in a tour with Discover Banff Tours, guests are acknowledging that they understand that we may take video and photographs of them during their tour. These videos and photographs may be used in promotional materials including, but not limited to, social media.
- Please note that this tour requires a minimum of 4 participants, please call the day prior to confirm the tour.
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Meal |
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Rose's Pick
"Besides the amazing views you'll have a chance to try delicious water straight from the glacier." - Rose , Manager of Guiding Operations
Columbia Icefield Parkway Tour Reviews