Calgary/Banff: Private Columbia Icefield Glacier Day Tour

The Canadian Rockies are a sight to behold, and the Private Columbia Icefield Glacier Day Tour offers a chance to witness their breathtaking beauty up close. Departing from Calgary or Banff, this 11-hour adventure showcases the region’s natural wonders, from the stunning Crowfoot Glacier to the serene Bow Lake. With a guided tour at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can explore Alberta’s majestic landscapes in comfort and style. But the true magic lies in the experience itself, as this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on those who embark on it.

Key Points

• This private tour offers a full-day excursion to the Columbia Icefield, with stops at Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, and Peyto Lake, among other natural wonders.
• The tour includes a 2.5-hour guided exploration of the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, as well as opportunities for photography and self-guided activities.
• Pickup options are available in Calgary, Banff, and Canmore, with a private, air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide provided throughout the tour.
• The tour is priced at $697.88 per group (up to 5 participants) and offers free cancellation up to 3 days in advance.
• Participants must bring their own car seats or boosters for infants and young children, as these are not provided by the tour operator.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private Columbia Icefield Glacier Day Tour from Calgary/Banff is priced at $697.88 per group, accommodating up to 5 participants.

The 11-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Pickup options are available in Calgary, Banff, and Canmore.

With free cancellation up to 3 days in advance and pickup available in Calgary, Banff, and Canmore, this 11-hour tour offers convenient options.

The itinerary highlights stops at Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, Waterfowl Lakes Viewpoint, Peyto Lake, and Herbert Lake.

Key attractions include the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier, and Peyto Lake.

The tour features a private, air-conditioned vehicle, a live English-speaking guide, a National Park Pass, and complimentary bottled water.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a photo stop and guided tour at Crowfoot Glacier, where visitors can admire the glacier’s three ice sections resembling a crow’s foot and take in the scenic views for around 10 minutes.

Next, the group will have a 20-minute break at Bow Lake, which includes a guided tour and a scenic walk along the lakeshore.

The main attraction is the 2.5-hour guided tour and sightseeing at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.

The tour also includes photo stops at Waterfowl Lakes Viewpoint and Peyto Lake, along with a 15-minute self-guided tour at Herbert Lake.

Key Attractions

One of the key attractions on the tour is the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform that offers breathtaking views from 280 meters (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley.

Another notable feature is the Crowfoot Glacier, named for its three ice sections that resemble a crow’s foot.

Bow Lake is a popular stop with family-friendly hikes along the lakeshore, while Peyto Lake is known for its bright turquoise color due to glacial rock flour.

The Waterfowl Lakes, glacier-fed lakes located on the Mistaya River, and Herbert Lake, with its stunning views and less-traveled trails, also highlight the tour’s natural beauty.

Tour Features

Participants can expect a private, air-conditioned vehicle to transport them throughout the tour, accompanied by a live English-speaking guide.

The tour includes a National Park Pass, ensuring seamless access to the protected areas. Complimentary bottled water is provided for hydration during the journey.

However, participants must supply their own car seats or boosters for infants and young children, as these aren’t provided by the tour operator.

Itineraries are subject to change, so guests are advised to ensure their contact information is up-to-date for communication with the guide.

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Important Information

Although no car seats or boosters are provided by the tour operator, participants must supply their own for infants and young children.

Itineraries are subject to change, so travelers should remain flexible.

Ensuring accurate contact information is essential for the guide to communicate effectively with guests before and during the tour.

Crowfoot Glacier

As the tour makes its first stop, participants have the opportunity to admire the Crowfoot Glacier. Named for its three ice sections resembling a crow’s foot, this impressive glacier offers ample photo opportunities and a guided tour.

| Crowfoot Glacier | | |

|——————|—————-|—————-|

| Photo Stop | Guided Tour | Scenic Views |

| 10 minutes | ✓ | ✓ |

| Highlights | – Three-pronged glacier formation | – Stunning mountain backdrop |

The 10-minute stop allows visitors to capture the glacier’s unique shape and the surrounding alpine scenery.

Bow Lake

After exploring the Crowfoot Glacier, the tour continues to Bow Lake. This popular stop offers a break time, guided tour, and scenic walk along the lakeshore.

Visitors can expect:

1. A 20-minute allotted time to explore the area.

2. A guided tour providing information about the lake’s history and geography.

3. A chance to take photographs of the stunning turquoise-colored lake and surrounding mountains.

4. Opportunities for easy, family-friendly hikes along the shoreline.

From Bow Lake, the tour proceeds to the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre for the next portion of the day’s activities.

Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre

The tour then arrives at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, where visitors enjoy a guided tour and sightseeing for approximately 2.5 hours.

The centre provides in-depth information about the history, geography, and ecology of the stunning Columbia Icefield. Guests learn about the formation and retreat of the glaciers, and the impact of climate change.

The highlight is the Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform that extends 280 meters above the Sunwapta Valley, offering breathtaking views.

A breathtaking glass-floored observation platform that extends 280 meters above the Sunwapta Valley, offering stunning vistas.

With knowledgeable guides and engaging exhibits, the Discovery Centre immerses visitors in the wonders of this natural wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Yes, participants are welcome to bring their own food and snacks on the tour. The private vehicle provides ample space to store and consume personal provisions during the breaks and stops along the itinerary.

Is There a Restroom Stop During the Tour?

The tour includes several restroom stops throughout the day, such as at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and other scenic viewpoints. Participants can use the restroom facilities during the scheduled breaks in the itinerary.

Do You Provide Any Special Dietary Accommodations?

The tour does not provide any special dietary accommodations. Participants are responsible for bringing their own food and drinks to meet any dietary needs or preferences during the tour.

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The minimum group size for this private tour is 1 participant. The tour can accommodate up to 5 participants per group at the price of $697.88 per group.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

While the standard tour duration is 11 hours, customers can’t extend the tour length. The itinerary and pricing are fixed, so the tour can’t be customized beyond the provided options.

The Sum Up

The Private Columbia Icefield Glacier Day Tour offers a captivating exploration of the Canadian Rockies’ natural wonders. With a private vehicle, knowledgeable guide, and access to stunning sites like Crowfoot Glacier and Peyto Lake, this 11-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy the region’s breathtaking landscapes and learn about its geological history at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.

You can check availability for your dates here: