
Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 18 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour worth booking?
Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour is a 12-hour experience in Banff, Canada, from $839 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 18 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 62 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (18)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $839 per person
Let someone else take the wheel while you relax & enjoy a *full-day private premium journey* along the world-famous Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper. Travel through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, surrounded by towering peaks, ancient glaciers, turquoise lakes, and the chance to spot wildlife along the way. Discover iconic highlights including Peyto Lake, Bow Lake & Athabasca Glacier for an unforgettable Rocky Mountain experience Visit the iconic Columbia Icefields, with an optional Ice Explorer & Sky-walk experience (tickets required). Throughout the journey, enjoy additional scenic stops, photo opportunities & breathtaking mountain views Additional stops may include Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint, Big Bend Viewpoint, Tangle Creek Falls, Saskatchewan River Crossing/Howse Pass viewpoint, depending on time and guest preferences **Please note** The Columbia Icefields Discovery Centre is closed seasonally from mid-October to early May.
What you get
About this experience
Let someone else take the wheel while you relax & enjoy a *full-day private premium journey* along the world-famous Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper. Travel through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, surrounded by towering peaks, ancient glaciers, turquoise lakes, and the chance to spot wildlife along the way. Discover iconic highlights including Peyto Lake, Bow Lake & Athabasca Glacier for an unforgettable Rocky Mountain experience Visit the iconic Columbia Icefields, with an optional Ice Explorer & Sky-walk experience (tickets required). Throughout the journey, enjoy additional scenic stops, photo opportunities & breathtaking mountain views Additional stops may include Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint, Big Bend Viewpoint, Tangle Creek Falls, Saskatchewan River Crossing/Howse Pass viewpoint, depending on time and guest preferences **Please note** The Columbia Icefields Discovery Centre is closed seasonally from mid-October to early May.
What's included
Included
- Both national Park entry fee
- Hotel pickup and drop-off service
- Air-conditioned comfortable transportation
- Experienced local guides
- Complimentary bottled water
Not included
- Personal expenses, including optional activities and travel insurance
- Gratuities (highly appreciated)
What you'll see and do
Crowfoot Glacier
Enjoy a scenic stop at the famous Crowfoot Glacier viewpoint along the breathtaking Icefields Parkway. Named for its original shape resembling a crow’s foot, this impressive glacier hangs high above Bow Lake and offers spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery. Guests will have time to take photos, admire the dramatic glacier views, and experience one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the Canadian Rockies…
10 minutes here
Peyto Lake
***Famous Wolf-Head Shaped Lake*** Discover the breathtaking Peyto Lake, famous for its striking turquoise waters shaped like a wolf’s head and set against the dramatic peaks of the Canadian Rockies. A short walk to the viewpoint offers panoramic vistas, perfect for photography and soaking in the natural beauty. This iconic lake is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking unforgettable scenery and a true taste of Banff National Park’s pristine wilderness.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Bow Lake
***Origin of Bow River*** Fed by the Bow Glacier and Wapta Icefield, this area is known for its pure glacial waters and calm alpine setting. Visit Bow Lake, a serene alpine lake nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Surrounded by towering mountain peaks and glaciers, the lake offers crystal-clear waters perfect for photography and quiet reflection. Travellers can stroll along the lakeshore, take in sweeping panoramic views, and immerse themselves in the peaceful beauty of Banff National Park’s pristine wilderness.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Waterfowl Lakes offers a quiet stretch of the Icefields Parkway, where two glacial lakes sit beneath towering peaks and dense forest. The area feels less crowded and more untouched, giving a true sense of wilderness in the Rockies. Nearby, the pyramid-shaped Mount Chephren adds to the dramatic scenery and creates stunning reflections in the water when the lake is calm. The still, reflective surface often mirrors the surrounding mountains, especially on calm mornings. It is a peaceful stop to take in the scenery, stretch briefly, and appreciate the raw natural beauty that defines this remote section of the national park.
15 minutes here
Mistaya Canyon
This canyon is a powerful natural formation where rushing glacier-fed water has carved deep, twisting shapes into solid limestone over thousands of years. It is a hidden gem nestled inside the forest, where the river funnels through narrow rock walls with strong force and constant movement. The sound of fast-flowing water and the rugged rock formations create a dramatic contrast, making it one of the most impressive short stops along the Icefields Parkway.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Athabasca Glacier
Athabasca Glacier is one of the most accessible and most visited glaciers in North America, forming part of the vast Columbia Ice-fields one of the largest icefields in the Canadian Rockies. **Optional activity tickets (Ice Explorer & Skywalk) can be purchased at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.** * Ice Explorer & Skywalk Combo: Adult $156 | Child $102 * Skywalk Separte ticket (Glass Bridge over the Sunwapta Valley): Adult $54 | Child $36 Guests have the option to book the Ice Explorer and Skywalk experiences, or take a 15–20 minute hike right to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier, where they can observe how the glacier has retreated significantly over the past 125 years—by almost 1.5 km. The landscape feels stark and powerful, with a mix of ice, rock, and wind-shaped terrain that reflects the changing nature of the Rockies. This stop offers a close look at a true ice-age relic that continues to shape the surrounding environment.
180 minutes here · Admission not included
Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
***Lunch stop*** After completing the Ice Explorer or Skywalk activities, guests can unwind with a lunch break at this scenic stop before continuing the journey.
50 minutes here
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Guests can experience the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored platform built along the edge of a cliff overlooking the Sunwapta Valley. It offers a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains and glacier-carved landscape from above. **Optional activity tickets (Ice Explorer & Skywalk) can be purchased at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.** * Ice Explorer & Skywalk Combo: Adult $156 | Child $102 * Skywalk (separate ticket, Glass Bridge over the Sunwapta Valley): Adult $54 | Child $36 As we are unable to stop directly at the Columbia Icefield Skywalk due to parking limitations and no roadside stopping access, guests have the option to book the Ice Explorer and Skywalk experiences at the Discovery Centre or continue the journey toward Tangle Creek. The Skywalk is located above the Sunwapta Valley and offers stunning elevated views.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Tangle Creek Falls
Tangle Creek Falls is a beautiful, painting-like waterfall along the Icefields Parkway, where water cascades down multiple rock layers beside the highway. It offers easy access and a scenic setting, giving guests a chance to view and photograph the flowing mountain water and the surrounding rocky landscape.
10 minutes here
Sunwapta Falls and Canyon
Sunwapta Falls is a powerful waterfall formed by glacier-fed water rushing through a narrow canyon before dropping into a deep, rocky gorge. The surrounding landscape is rugged and remote, enhancing the dramatic atmosphere of the location. It showcases the raw force of water carving through stone over time and stands as a striking example of nature’s power and a memorable stop along the Icefields Parkway.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Athabasca Falls
Athabasca Falls is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Jasper National Park, where glacier-fed water forces its way through a narrow canyon carved into solid rock. The intense flow creates a dramatic drop and a constant roar, with viewing platforms offering close-up perspectives of the rushing water and deep canyon walls. Surrounded by rugged forest and mountain scenery, it is a striking example of the raw power of nature along the Icefields Parkway.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Banff/Canmore Pickup-6 Pax
Pickup included
Calgary Pickup (up to 6 Pax)
Pickup included
Banff/Canmore Pickup-14 Pax
Pickup included
Calgary Pickup (up to 14 Pax)
Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Wild Northern Journey
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This is a private tour; only your group will participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 18 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
10 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
9 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
8 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Small groups
5 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Good for families
3 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
18 verified traveler reviews for Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Best Private Tour of the Columbia Icefield and Jasper in the Canadian Rockies
We booked our tour in September, and our tour guide, Anju, was great. She was very knowledgeable about the mountains and glaciers, and we learned so much about the Icefield glaciers. The Icefields Parkway was one of the most beautiful routes we have travelled around the world. No words or pictures can truly do justice to its beauty. We had booked the Icefield activity in advance, and Anju managed the time perfectly, arriving exactly on time. We enjoyed our lunch and completed our activity without any rush. My mother is in her late 80s, and she enjoyed Anju’s company so much. Even my children loved spending time with her. I would say this was the best private tour in the Canadian Rockies. Thank you, Anju, for making our trip so special. God bless you.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt review of your private Canadian Rockies tour with Wild Northern Journey. We’re delighted that your family enjoyed the spectacular Icefields Parkway, the Columbia Icefield glaciers, and your pre-booked Icefield experience without feeling rushed. Anju will be especially touched to hear that she made the journey enjoyable for your mother and children alike. Creating comfortable, meaningful experiences for guests of all ages is what makes our private Banff and Jasper tours so special. We truly appreciate your trust in our team and hope to welcome your family back to the Canadian Rockies for another memorable adventure.
via Tripadvisor
Excellent tour of the Icefields Parkway with Andy
We had an absolutely wonderful experience with Andy as our driver and tour guide for our Icefields Parkway excursion from Banff. He picked us up right at the Moxy Hotel in a clean, comfortable van and provided excellent service throughout the entire day. Andy took us to all of the major highlights along the Icefields Parkway, but what really made the day special was that he also knew some wonderful hidden gems and scenic stops that we would never have discovered on our own. He was extremely knowledgeable and shared interesting facts and history about everything we were seeing, which made the experience so much more meaningful. Andy was also an excellent photographer! Throughout the day, he took both individual and group photos of us at the most beautiful viewpoints, giving us wonderful memories of our experience together. He seemed to know exactly where to stop for the best views and photos. He was incredibly accommodating and attentive to our group. One thoughtful touch was using a microphone in the van so everyone could clearly hear his explanations, no matter where they were sitting. We couldn't have asked for a better guide. Andy was professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely wanted us to have a fantastic day. He made our Icefields Parkway experience one of the highlights of our Banff trip, and we would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a private tour of the Canadian Rockies!
Response from the operator: Thank you for such a detailed and thoughtful review. We’re delighted to know that your private Icefields Parkway tour from Banff became one of the highlights of your Canadian Rockies trip. Andy will truly appreciate your kind words. From sharing local history and finding hidden scenic spots to helping capture beautiful photographs, he takes great pride in making each private tour personal and memorable. We’re also glad you enjoyed the comfort of the vehicle and the little details that made the journey easier. Thank you for choosing Wild Northern Journey for your private Banff tour and for recommending us to other travelers. We would be delighted to have you back to explore more of the Canadian Rockies with us.
via Viator
Excellent Tour with Andy!!!
We had an absolutely wonderful experience with Andy as our driver and tour guide for our Icefields Parkway excursion from Banff. He picked us up right at the Moxy Hotel in a clean, comfortable van and provided excellent service throughout the entire day. Andy took us to all of the major highlights along the Icefields Parkway, but what really made the day special was that he also knew some wonderful hidden gems and scenic stops that we would never have discovered on our own. He was extremely knowledgeable and shared interesting facts and history about everything we were seeing, which made the experience so much more meaningful. Andy was also an excellent photographer! Throughout the day, he took both individual and group photos of us at the most beautiful viewpoints, giving us wonderful memories of our experience together. He seemed to know exactly where to stop for the best views and photos. He was incredibly accommodating and attentive to our group. One thoughtful touch was using a microphone in the van so everyone could clearly hear his explanations, no matter where they were sitting. We couldn't have asked for a better guide. Andy was professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely wanted us to have a fantastic day. He made our Icefields Parkway experience one of the highlights of our Banff trip, and we would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a private tour of the Canadian Rockies!
Response from the operator: Thank you for such a wonderful and detailed review. It means a great deal to know that your private Icefields Parkway tour from Banff was one of the highlights of your trip. Andy will be very happy to hear that his local knowledge, hidden scenic stops, photography, and attention to everyone in the group helped make the day so enjoyable. We’re also glad the comfortable vehicle and microphone made it easy to relax and take in the stories along the way. Thank you for choosing Wild Northern Journey for your Canadian Rockies adventure and for recommending our private Banff tours. We hope to have the pleasure of showing you even more of the Rockies on your next visit.
via Tripadvisor
An Unforgettable Private Columbia Icefield & Jasper Tour
My husband and I booked a private Columbia Icefield and Jasper tour with this company, and it was an amazing experience. Anju was a wonderful guide very knowledgeable, kind, and friendly. We learned so much about the glaciers, icefields, mountains, wildlife, and the history of Banff and Jasper. This is a tour we will remember for the rest of our lives. I highly recommend booking with this company if you want a memorable and informative experience.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing such a meaningful review. We’re so glad Anju made your private Columbia Icefield and Jasper journey both enjoyable and informative. It’s wonderful to hear that you enjoyed learning about the glaciers, mountains, wildlife, and history along the way. We’ll be sure to pass your kind words on to Anju. Thank you for choosing Wild Northern Journey for such a special day. We’re honoured to know it will be a lasting memory from your trip.
via Tripadvisor
Best day ever in Banff Springs
Our full day guide Andy was fabulous. It was a day to remember always. Most beautiful stops along the way. Andy was so knowledgeable about the history of the area, as well as glaciology, flora, and fauna. He was also fun to be with.
Response from the operator: What a lovely way to describe a full day in the Rockies. We’re so glad Andy made it a day worth remembering, not only through the beautiful stops but also through all the stories and knowledge he shared along the way. History, glaciers, wildlife, and a few good laughs make for a pretty special combination. We’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to Andy. Thank you for spending the day with us and for letting Wild Northern Journey be part of such a memorable experience.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $839 to $1,949
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Wild Northern Journey, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.6.
See everything Wild Northern Journey runsWhy this scores 62
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Banff.
How much does Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour cost?
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Prices start at $839 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Banff usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour take?
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Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Banff is not rushed.
Is Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 62 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 18 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Banff, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Banff can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Banff and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Banff within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Banff?
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On Outty we rank every Banff experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway Full-Day Tour, Lake Louise Emerald Lake Natural Bridge Half Day Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Banff?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Banff?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour?
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Included: Both national Park entry fee; Hotel pickup and drop-off service; Air-conditioned comfortable transportation; Experienced local guides; and Complimentary bottled water. Not included: Personal expenses, including optional activities and travel insurance; and Gratuities (highly appreciated). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 70 listed pickup locations in and around Banff. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour?
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Across 18 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Banff to Jasper Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk Private VIP Tour?
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There are 4 options to choose from, including Banff/Canmore Pickup-6 Pax, Calgary Pickup (up to 6 Pax), Banff/Canmore Pickup-14 Pax, Calgary Pickup (up to 14 Pax). Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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