Banff: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Parkway, Bow & Peyto Lake

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Banff region offers travelers a chance to enjoy a breathtaking natural wonder. From the awe-inspiring Columbia Icefield to the serene turquoise waters of Bow and Peyto Lakes, this area showcases the best of what the Rockies have to offer. And for the adventurous, the thrilling Columbia Icefield Skywalk provides an unparalleled perspective of the majestic landscape. With so much to explore, it’s clear why Banff continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

About Your Stay

• The Icefields Parkway is a 232 km scenic drive that showcases the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park, including Bow Lake, Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise, and Peyto Lake.

• The Columbia Icefield is the largest ice field in the Canadian Rockies, and visitors can explore it via the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that takes them onto the glacier’s surface.

• The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is an optional glass-floored walkway that extends 280 meters over the Sunwapta Valley, offering breathtaking views of the glacier below.

• Peyto Lake is known for its vibrant turquoise color, which is a result of rock flour suspension in the water, while Bow Lake reflects the surrounding alpine landscape.

• The Icefields Parkway tour includes hotel pickups/drop-offs, transportation, park passes, and a local guide, with prices ranging from $83.83 to $75.45 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Icefields Parkway Tour Overview

The Icefields Parkway tour offers a captivating full-day excursion along the 232 km (144 mile) scenic drive, allowing visitors to explore the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.

Priced from $83.83 to $75.45 per person, the tour includes hotel pickups and drop-offs, transportation, park passes, and a local guide.

Highlights include stops at Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise, and Peyto Lake. Travelers can also opt for the Columbia Icefield Skywalk and a ride on the Ice Explorer vehicle.

With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour is a must-do Banff experience.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting from designated pickup locations in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff, the Icefields Parkway tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. The tour highlights include stops at stunning natural wonders like Bow Lake, the massive Columbia Icefield, the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, and the breathtaking Peyto Lake.

| Stop | Duration | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Bow Lake | 30 min | Serene, glacier-fed lake |

| Columbia Icefield | 2.5 hours | Largest ice field in the Canadian Rockies |

| Lake Louise | 50 min | Iconic turquoise lake |

The tour also offers optional activities like the Columbia Icefield Skywalk and a visit to Marble Canyon, providing guests with a well-rounded and immersive experience in the region’s natural beauty.

Athabasca Glacier and Ice Explorer

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to ride on the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle specially designed for glacial travel.

These massive machines transport visitors directly onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier, part of the vast Columbia Icefield.

This immersive experience allows guests to step out onto the ancient ice, which has been slowly accumulating for centuries.

The Ice Explorer provides a unique and thrilling way to explore the heart of this impressive glacier, offering an up-close look at the power and beauty of this natural wonder.

Exploring the Columbia Icefield

Towering over the Icefields Parkway, the Columbia Icefield stands as the largest icefield in North America’s Rocky Mountains.

On this tour, visitors can ride the specialized Ice Explorer vehicle directly onto the glacier’s surface. They’ll marvel at the glacier’s immense size and breathtaking blue hues. Guided commentary provides insights into the icefield’s ecology and geology.

Visitors can ride the specialized Ice Explorer vehicle directly onto the glacier’s surface, marveling at its immense size and blue hues.

Those seeking an extra thrill can add the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform suspended over a glacier-formed valley.

With stunning viewpoints and up-close glacier access, the Columbia Icefield is a highlight of the Icefields Parkway experience.

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Peyto Lake and Bow Lake

The tour then treats visitors to the stunning turquoise waters of Peyto Lake, renowned for its vibrant glacial hue.

Carved by ancient glaciers, the lake’s mesmerizing color results from the suspension of rock flour in the water.

After exploring the lake’s breathtaking viewpoint, the journey continues to Bow Lake, another picturesque stop.

Nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies, Bow Lake’s tranquil waters reflect the surrounding alpine landscape.

These natural wonders leave a lasting impression, showcasing the beauty of Banff National Park’s diverse landscapes.

Optional Columbia Icefield Skywalk

Although the main tour stops at the Columbia Icefield, visitors can choose to add on the optional Columbia Icefield Skywalk for an additional fee.

The Skywalk is a thrilling glass-floored walkway that extends 280 meters (918 feet) over the Sunwapta Valley, providing breathtaking views of the glacier below. Adventurous travelers can admire the ancient ice field and dramatic mountain scenery from this unique vantage point.

The Skywalk experience lasts approximately 30 minutes and is an optional add-on to the full-day Icefields Parkway tour, allowing visitors to further enjoy the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Winter Tour Alternatives

If travelers visit Banff during the winter months, when the Icefields Parkway tour doesn’t operate, there are several alternative winter tour options available.

These include visiting Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, where visitors can explore the frozen lakes and scenic vistas.

Another option is the Marble Canyon tour, which showcases the impressive limestone canyon carved by the Kootenay River.

Both tours provide the opportunity to experience the stunning winter landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.

While the activities may differ, the breathtaking scenery and knowledgeable guides ensure an unforgettable Banff experience year-round.

Inclusions, Transportation, and Customer Reviews

Pickup and drop-off from designated locations in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff is provided, with transportation via air-conditioned van.

The tour includes a National Park Pass and a local guide, whose expertise is praised by reviewers. Gratuities of $12 per person in cash are recommended. Meals and personal expenses aren’t included.

Questions About Your Stay

Is a Tour Guide Provided for the Entire Tour?

Yes, a local guide is included throughout the entire tour, providing informative commentary and leading the activities along the Icefields Parkway and at the Columbia Icefield, according to the tour details provided.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Customers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but meals and personal expenses are not included in the tour price. The tour provides transportation and a local guide, but does not supply food or refreshments.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Ice Explorer Ride?

The ice explorer ride on the Columbia Icefield tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Visitors of all ages can participate in this popular activity, which provides an up-close experience with the massive glacier.

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, you can book the tour for a private group. The tour operator offers this option, allowing you to customize the itinerary and have a more personalized experience with your group.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad During the Tour?

If the weather is bad, the tour operator will assess the situation and make adjustments to the itinerary. They’ll aim to provide the best possible experience and may substitute alternate stops or activities to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Banff region’s Icefields Parkway offers a breathtaking experience, showcasing the Columbia Icefield‘s magnificent glaciers. Visitors can explore serene Bow Lake and vibrant Peyto Lake, while the optional Columbia Icefield Skywalk provides unparalleled views of the majestic landscape. This journey immerses travelers in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies, creating an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: