Calgary: Columbia Icefield Adventure, Skywalk and Peyto Lake Tour

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Herbert Lake

   Discover the serene beauty of Herbert Lake, a hidden gem along the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park. Surrounded by towering peaks and dense forest, this tranquil alpine lake offers breathtaking views and perfect mirror-like reflections of the Canadian Rockies—ideal for photography and peaceful nature moments. Enjoy a short stop (approx. 15–20 minutes) where you can take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, soak in the quiet atmosphere, and learn interesting facts about the area's natural and geological significance from your guide. Less crowded than Banff’s major lakes, Herbert Lake provides a more intimate and authentic connection to the park's stunning landscape. It's especially captivating in the morning when the water is calm and the reflections are at their best. A peaceful, picture-perfect highlight of your journey through the Rockies.

   20 minutes here · Admission included

2. Crowfoot Glacier

   Marvel at the majestic Crowfoot Glacier, perched high above Bow Lake along the scenic Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park. Once shaped like a three-toed crow’s foot, this glacier is a striking example of nature’s power and the effects of climate change. During this short scenic stop, your guide will share fascinating insights into the glacier’s formation, its ongoing retreat, and its significance to the region’s ecosystem. From the roadside viewpoint, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the glacier, surrounding cliffs, and turquoise Bow Lake below—an ideal photo opportunity. This stop offers a unique chance to witness an iconic glacier in a spectacular mountain setting without the need for a strenuous hike. A quick yet memorable highlight of your Rockies adventure.

   20 minutes here · Admission included

3. Bow Lake

   Experience the breathtaking beauty of Bow Lake, one of Banff National Park’s most stunning glacial lakes, nestled at the base of the majestic Crowfoot Mountain. This serene stop along the Icefields Parkway offers panoramic views of turquoise waters fed by the Bow Glacier, with towering peaks and alpine scenery all around. During your visit, enjoy a peaceful walk along the lakeshore, take in the crisp mountain air, and capture postcard-perfect photos of the reflective water and surrounding wilderness. Your guide will share fascinating facts about the lake’s glacial origins, local wildlife, and the significance of the Bow River headwaters. This stop is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting to connect with the raw beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Whether it’s a quick photo stop or a moment to relax in nature, Bow Lake is a memorable highlight of your Rockies journey.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

4. Peyto Lake

   Prepare to be amazed by the iconic Peyto Lake, one of the most photographed and visually striking lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Located along the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park, Peyto Lake is famous for its brilliant turquoise color and unique shape, resembling a howling wolf from the viewpoint above. On this stop, enjoy a short, scenic walk to a panoramic lookout where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the glacier-fed lake surrounded by rugged peaks. Your guide will provide insights into the area's geology, glacial history, and the natural forces that give the lake its vivid hue. This unforgettable experience offers incredible photo opportunities and a true connection to the raw beauty of the Canadian wilderness. A must-see highlight of any Rockies adventure, Peyto Lake promises to leave a lasting impression.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

5. Peyto Lake Trail

   Explore the awe-inspiring Peyto Glacier, perched high in the Wapta Icefield and feeding the vibrant waters of Peyto Lake in Banff National Park. As part of your tour, you'll stop at a scenic viewpoint where the glacier can be seen in the distance, nestled among rugged peaks and alpine valleys. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the glacier's formation, its role in shaping the landscape, and how it contributes to the lake’s famous turquoise color. Though the glacier itself is not accessible up close, the panoramic views from the lookout provide a powerful perspective on the scale and beauty of this ancient ice mass. It’s a meaningful stop for anyone interested in geology, climate change, and the natural forces that have sculpted the Canadian Rockies. A memorable and educational highlight of your journey through one of Canada’s most iconic national parks.

   20 minutes here · Admission included

6. Discover the peaceful beauty of Waterfowl Lakes, a hidden gem along the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park. Surrounded by towering peaks and dense forest, these glacier-fed lakes offer a tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. On this stop, travelers can enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, take in the crisp alpine air, and capture stunning photos of the emerald-green water reflecting the surrounding mountains. Your guide will share fascinating details about the area’s geology, native wildlife, and the glacial sources that feed the lakes. With fewer crowds than more popular sites, Waterfowl Lakes provide a serene and intimate connection with nature—perfect for those looking to experience the untouched beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Whether you're here for photos, quiet reflection, or to simply soak in the views, this stop will be a memorable part of your mountain adventure.

   10 minutes here · Admission included

7. Embark on the unforgettable Icefield Adventure, a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the majestic Athabasca Glacier—one of the most accessible glaciers in North America, located in the heart of the Columbia Icefield. Board a specially designed Ice Explorer vehicle and travel right onto the glacier’s surface, where you'll step out and walk on ancient ice formed thousands of years ago. Surrounded by towering peaks and endless white expanses, you'll learn from your guide about the glacier’s formation, the powerful forces that shaped it, and the ongoing effects of climate change. Feel the crunch of ice under your boots, breathe the pure alpine air, and even taste glacial water straight from the source. This thrilling and educational experience offers breathtaking views, incredible photo opportunities, and a deeper appreciation of our planet’s natural wonders. A must-do highlight of any journey through the Canadian Rockies.

   120 minutes here · Admission not included

8. Columbia Icefield Skywalk

   Experience the thrill of walking on air at the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, an awe-inspiring glass-floored observation platform that extends 918 feet (280 meters) over the Sunwapta Valley in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Located just minutes from the Athabasca Glacier, this architectural marvel offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of glaciers, rugged mountain peaks, waterfalls, and deep river canyons below. As you step onto the glass walkway, feel the exhilaration of standing high above the landscape, while your guide shares fascinating insights into the region’s geology, glaciology, and wildlife. Interpretive displays along the way enrich your understanding of this dramatic environment. Ideal for thrill-seekers, photographers, and nature lovers alike, the Skywalk is a memorable highlight of your Icefields Parkway journey—combining excitement with natural beauty in one spectacular stop.

   60 minutes here · Admission not included

9. Icefields Parkway

   Travel along the world-renowned Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives on Earth, stretching between Banff and Jasper National Parks. On this unforgettable journey, you'll witness the raw beauty of the Canadian Rockies—towering snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, waterfalls, and vast alpine meadows. Your guided tour includes stops at iconic landmarks such as Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Waterfowl Lakes, Crowfoot Glacier, and the majestic Columbia Icefield. Along the way, your guide will share captivating stories about the region’s geology, wildlife, and Indigenous history. Keep your camera ready for possible sightings of bears, elk, or mountain goats. Whether you’re stepping onto ancient ice, admiring mirror-like lakes, or simply enjoying panoramic mountain views, the Icefields Parkway offers an immersive and unforgettable experience through the heart of the Canadian wilderness. A must-do for any nature lover or adventurer. This is part of Travel Time.

   180 minutes here · Admission included

Where it starts and ends

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

de, en, it, fr, es

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 14 travelers per booking

Operated by

Canadian's Rockies Tours

Know before you go

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• For your visit, please allow approximately 3-4 hours for round-trip travel time between all locations.

Photos