Icefields Parkway Adventure: Columbia Icefield Edition

The day that ruins all other road trips.

We kick off on the world’s most scenic drive through UNESCO-listed wilderness—small group, secret lookouts, thundering waterfalls, and lakes too blue to be real—while your guide shares stories only locals know and keeps an eye out for elk, bears, and bighorn sheep.

Then we go big: rumble onto the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier in a massive Ice Explorer, walk on ancient ice, sip pure glacial water. Finale: the glass-floored Skywalk hanging high above the valley.

One seamless, goosebump-filled day. Zero bus vibes, all soul.

For adventurers who want the iconic Icefields experience with real connection and memories that stick forever.

Highlights

✦ Crowd-free & local style

Small group, secret lookouts, hidden trails, and prime wildlife corridors the big buses can’t reach

✦ Walk on a 10,000-year-old glacier

Ice Explorer ride, boots on ancient ice, sip pure glacial water, then heart-racing glass Skywalk over Sunwapta Valley.

✦ A day that built around you

We tweak the route daily for fresh wildlife action, perfect light, or whatever makes the crew grin the widest.3

✦ More than epic views—real connection:

Passionate guides share the rocks’ secrets, First Nations history, and the wild spirit of these peaks—so you don’t just see the Rockies, you feel them.

Adventure Tiers

1. Explorer

Small group tour with upscale transportation and expert guide included. No extras, just a great day out.

2. Premium (Recommended)

Level up with a tasty picnic lunch made with locally sourced ingredients, concierge help before & after your trip, and a Local’s Guide to Banff e-book for insider tips and hidden gems.

3. VIP

Go private. Get everything from Premium, plus your own guide, high-end vehicle, and a fully customizable day—your adventure, your way. Private Tour

Details

Included:

✓  Small group experience (max 12 guests)
✓  Comfortable, upscale transportation with panoramic windows
✓  Expert local guide trained in photography and storytelling
✓  Fresh water refills (BYO water bottle)
✓ 
Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off at select Banff and Lake Louise locations
✓ 
Columbia Icefield Adventure Admission (Ice Explorer + Columbia Icefield Skywalk)


Not Included:

✕  Lunch (unless upgraded to Premium)
✕  Guide gratuities (optional)
✕  National Park Pass

Itinerary

Hotel Pick-Up in Banff, Lake Louise or Canmore

Your adventure begins with a seamless hotel pick-up. Relax in luxury transport with panoramic windows as you travel through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, watching for early morning wildlife sightings.

Peyto Lake

Step onto an elevated viewpoint for a breathtaking panorama of this glacier-fed lake, famous for its vibrant turquoise color. Your guide will share insights into its unique hydrology and Indigenous significance.

Bow Lake

Marvel at the still waters reflecting the dramatic peaks of the Wapta Icefield. Stroll along the lakeshore, hear stories of early explorers, and capture stunning photographs.

Waterfowl Lakes

A hidden gem along the Parkway, these serene lakes offer postcard-perfect reflections of the surrounding peaks. Take a short walk to a secluded viewpoint and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

Columbia Icefields & Athabasca Glacier

Arrive at the epic Columbia Icefields, home to one of the largest ice masses in North America. Step onto the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier aboard an all-terrain Ice Explorer, where you’ll walk on ancient ice. Then, test your nerve on the glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk, suspended high above the Sunwapta Valley.

Return to Banff, Lake Louise or Canmore

Relax on the journey back, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable sights while your guide shares local legends and tips for more Rocky Mountain adventures.

Reviews


Pick-up Locations

Hassle-free pick-up and drop-off at these convenient spots:

Banff:

Banff Train Station
Canalta Lodge
Caribou Lodge
Moose Hotel
Rimrock Resort
Fairmont Banff
Peaks Hotel
Juniper Hotel
Tunnel Mountain Resort

Lake Louise:

Lake Louise Village
Chateau Lake Louise

Canmore:

Solara Resort
The Malcom Hotel
Grand Rockies Resort
Northwinds Hotel
Pocaterra Inn

Weather

Rain, shine, or snow—we go! Mountain weather shifts fast, but every condition unlocks epic wildlife and moods. Always legendary.

Banff Weather

FAQs

This experience involves light walking on uneven surfaces. A reasonable level of mobility is recommended. Guests may opt out of walks and enjoy exhibits at the Columbia Icefields Centre.

Absolutely! Our Bespoke Private Adventure offers a fully customized experience with a private guide, tailored itinerary & premium dining.

We operate rain, snow, or shine! If extreme weather affects safety, we offer rescheduling or a full refund.

High alpine lakes can remain frozen into early June and start freezing again mid-November. Whether frozen or thawed, their beauty is undeniable!

Select Date to Book

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