Canmore/Banff: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Peyto Day Tour

Exploring the natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies is a must-do for any adventurous traveler. This full-day tour from Canmore and Banff promises an unforgettable experience, taking visitors through the stunning Icefields Parkway to iconic destinations like the Columbia Icefield and Peyto Lake. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll have the chance to witness the region’s breathtaking landscapes up close and uncover the fascinating stories behind these natural marvels. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an awe-inspiring day, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Key Points

Full-day tour exploring the picturesque Canmore and Banff region, including visits to the Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake.
Scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway with various photo stops and a guided tour of the Columbia Icefield.
Private driver/guide included for a personalized and customized experience.
Tour priced from $527.76 for up to 4 people, with additional costs for lunch and entry fees.
Recommended for travelers in good health and mobility, with restrictions on certain groups and items in the vehicle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour to the picturesque Canmore and Banff region showcases the must-see highlights of the Canadian Rockies.

Spend 9 hours exploring the Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake. Accompanied by a private driver/guide, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, take photos at stunning viewpoints, and experience a guided tour on the Athabasca Glacier.

Spend 9 hours exploring the Canadian Rockies’ must-see highlights, including the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier.

The tour is priced from $527.76 per group of up to 4 people, with pickups available in Canmore, Banff, and Calgary.

Lunch and entry fees are extra, but water and a customized itinerary are included.

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Highlights of the Itinerary

The scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway takes visitors through stunning vistas of the Canadian Rockies. The tour includes a photo stop at Bow Lake and a hike around Peyto Lake. The highlight is the guided tour on the Athabasca Glacier at the Columbia Icefield. Guests can also opt for the Skywalk’s glass-floored walkway experience. During the trip, there’s a break at Saskatchewan River Crossing.

| Category | Duration |

| — | — |

| Scenic Drive | 1 hour |

| Peyto Lake | 1 hour |

| Columbia Icefield | 2 hours |

The tour concludes with scenic views in Banff National Park before returning to the starting locations.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes private transportation with a personal driver/guide, a customized itinerary, and bottled water.

Lunch at a local restaurant is an additional charge.

Not included are meals and snacks outside designated stops, entry fees for attractions and guided activities, gratuities for the guide, personal expenses, transportation to/from the airport, travel insurance, special equipment rentals, and overtime charges.

Travelers should note the restrictions – no baby strollers, smoking, alcohol, or drugs in the vehicle.

The tour may not be suitable for certain individuals due to health and mobility concerns.

Important Information

Travelers should carefully review the cancellation policy, which allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a change of clothes.

For safety reasons, baby strollers, smoking, alcohol, and drugs aren’t permitted in the vehicle.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals over 80 years, those with high blood pressure, babies under 1 year, and individuals over 70 years.

Guests should notify the provider in advance for any special requirements to ensure a smooth experience.

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Booking and Flexibility

Guests can reserve their spot without any upfront payment by using the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option. This flexible booking process allows travelers to confirm availability and customize their tour based on their preferences.

Key benefits include:

Check availability of preferred start times and itinerary
Notify the provider in advance of any special requirements
Avoid paying the full amount until 24 hours before the tour
Make changes to the booking with no penalty up to a day prior
Enjoy a seamless experience with the private driver/guide.

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Scenic Drive Along the Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway, a renowned scenic highway, winds through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering travelers a captivating journey.

You’ll be immersed in breathtaking mountain vistas, glacial lakes, and vast wilderness as you make your way towards the day’s destinations. This one-hour drive is a highlight of the tour, allowing you to soak in the stunning natural beauty that defines the Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about the region’s history, geology, and wildlife, enhancing your appreciation for this remarkable landscape.

Exploring Bow Lake and Peyto Lake

After the scenic drive along the renowned Icefields Parkway, the tour heads to the pristine Bow Lake. Here, visitors can soak in the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and surrounding mountains.

Peyto Lake follows, known for its striking blue-green hue. A short hike provides the opportunity to witness this natural wonder up close.

The Peyto Lake experience offers:

Stunning landscape photography
Immersion in the serene alpine environment
Learning about the lake’s glacial origins
Connecting with the majestic Canadian Rockies
An exhilarating outdoor adventure

These two picturesque lake stops allow travelers to fully appreciate the beauty of the Banff National Park region.

Guided Tour of the Columbia Icefield and Skywalk

Continuing the adventure, the tour reaches the remarkable Columbia Icefield, a sprawling glacier nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Travelers embark on a guided tour of the Athabasca Glacier, where they can step onto the ancient ice and learn about the region’s glacial history.

| Activities | Duration |

| — | — |

| Guided Tour | 2 hours |

| Explore Ice Field | Included |

| Photo Opportunities | Encouraged |

| Skywalk Experience | 1 hour (additional fee) |

The tour then offers an optional visit to the Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform suspended 918 feet above the glacier-formed valley below, providing a thrilling, panoramic view of the Rockies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for customers to change their plans without penalty.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks for the tour, but meals and snacks outside the designated stops are not included in the tour price. It’s recommended to pack a lunch and any additional snacks or beverages.

Is There a Minimum Number of People Required for the Tour?

The tour is a private group experience with no minimum number of participants. Up to 4 people can book the tour together at the group rate of $527.76.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals over 80 years, those with high blood pressure, babies under 1 year, and individuals over 70 years. There are age restrictions for participant’s safety and comfort.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary Further?

Yes, the tour is highly customizable. Clients can adjust the itinerary, timing, and activities to suit their preferences. The provider offers a personalized experience to ensure the day meets the group’s needs.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. From the majestic Columbia Icefield to the breathtaking Peyto Lake, each stop provides a chance to take in the region’s natural beauty. With a knowledgeable driver guiding the way, travelers can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, making the most of this unforgettable adventure.