Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes
Traveler rating
4.5/5
Based on 23 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes worth booking?
Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes is a 12-hour experience in Canmore, Canada, from $65 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 23 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 66 / 100
- Rating
- 4.5/5 (23)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $65 per person
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Banff and Jasper National Parks on this scenic tour from Calgary, Banff, or Canmore. Marvel at the stunning Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and Waterfowl Lake while capturing incredible wildlife and nature photography. Winter travelers will enjoy a special visit to Johnston Canyon, showcasing a winter wonderland until May 2. This tour includes ample sightseeing stops, allowing for memorable moments in the Rocky Mountains, followed by a return to your pickup point after a day of exploration. - Scenic tour through Banff and Jasper National Parks - Visit iconic sites like Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, and more - Special winter experience at Johnston Canyon from October 15 to May 2 - Ample opportunities for photography and sightseeing throughout the day
What you get
About this experience
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Banff and Jasper National Parks on this scenic tour from Calgary, Banff, or Canmore. Marvel at the stunning Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and Waterfowl Lake while capturing incredible wildlife and nature photography. Winter travelers will enjoy a special visit to Johnston Canyon, showcasing a winter wonderland until May 2. This tour includes ample sightseeing stops, allowing for memorable moments in the Rocky Mountains, followed by a return to your pickup point after a day of exploration. - Scenic tour through Banff and Jasper National Parks - Visit iconic sites like Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, and more - Special winter experience at Johnston Canyon from October 15 to May 2 - Ample opportunities for photography and sightseeing throughout the day
What's included
Included
- Carbonated beverages
- Snacks
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- water bottels
Not included
- Lunch
- travel insurance
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Lake Louise
Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, Lake Louise is one of Canada’s most iconic and picturesque destinations. Famous for its vibrant turquoise waters, framed by majestic mountain peaks and the stunning Victoria Glacier, this glacial lake offers breathtaking scenery year-round. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, rent a canoe in summer, or experience a magical winter wonderland with ice skating and snow-covered views. The historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise adds to the charm, providing a perfect backdrop for photography and relaxation.
30 minutes here
Crowfoot Glacier
Marvel at the natural wonder of Crowfoot Glacier, a stunning hanging glacier nestled on the slopes of Crowfoot Mountain along the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park. Once named for its three distinct “toes” resembling a crow’s foot, the glacier has become a symbol of the changing climate, as one of its toes has melted over time. Easily visible from a roadside viewpoint along Bow Lake, this glacier offers breathtaking scenery without the need for a strenuous hike. Surrounded by dramatic peaks and alpine beauty, it’s a perfect photo stop and educational moment during your journey through the Canadian Rockies. The glacier’s shimmering ice, combined with its historical significance and accessibility, makes it a favorite highlight for visitors exploring the iconic Icefields Parkway. Whether you're on a sightseeing tour or road-tripping through Banff, a stop at Crowfoot Glacier is a must for lovers of nature, geology, and striking mountain landscapes.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Bow Lake
Bow Lake, located along the scenic Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park, is one of the most beautiful and easily accessible lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Fed by the Bow Glacier, the lake’s brilliant turquoise waters reflect the surrounding mountains, including Crowfoot Mountain and Mount Thompson, creating postcard-perfect views. A peaceful stop for travelers, Bow Lake offers opportunities for short walks, photography, and enjoying the quiet beauty of alpine nature. In summer, the area is alive with wildflowers and gentle breezes, while in colder months, it transforms into a serene, snow-covered landscape. The historic Num-Ti-Jah Lodge, located on the northern shore, adds rustic charm and a glimpse into the region’s heritage. Whether you stop for a quick photo or a longer break, Bow Lake provides an unforgettable experience with its calm waters, glacier-fed brilliance, and panoramic mountain backdrop—perfect for nature lovers and road trippers alike.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake is a breathtaking glacial lake located in Banff National Park, just off the Icefields Parkway. Famed for its unique wolf-head shape and brilliant turquoise color, Peyto Lake offers one of the most iconic and photographed viewpoints in the Canadian Rockies. The vibrant color comes from glacial rock flour that flows into the lake during the summer months, creating an unreal, almost glowing appearance. A short walk from the parking area leads to a well-maintained viewing platform that provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and sightseers, Peyto Lake is a must-see stop that captures the essence of the Rockies' natural beauty. Whether you visit during summer for vivid colors or in winter for a peaceful, snow-draped scene, the views are unforgettable. This stop is a highlight for anyone traveling the Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Waterfowl Lakes, located along the iconic Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park, are a pair of stunning glacial lakes that offer tranquility, breathtaking scenery, and a perfect connection with nature. Nestled between Bow Summit and the majestic Mount Chephren, these serene lakes are known for their vibrant blue-green color and peaceful surroundings, making them a favorite stop for travelers seeking a less crowded yet equally beautiful alternative to more popular sites. The area offers excellent photo opportunities, short walks, and even access to longer hiking trails like the Chephren Lake and Cirque Lake trails. Reflections of snow-capped peaks and dense pine forests on the calm water create postcard-worthy views in every direction. Whether you’re stopping for a break, enjoying a picnic, or simply admiring the untouched beauty of the Canadian Rockies,
20 minutes here
Sasketchawan River Crossing
Saskatchewan River Crossing is a scenic and historic stop along the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park, where the North Saskatchewan, Howse, and Mistaya Rivers meet. Surrounded by towering peaks and glacial valleys, this junction served as an important route for Indigenous peoples, fur traders, and early explorers. Today, it offers visitors a peaceful place to take in panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies and learn about the area’s rich heritage. With a nearby viewpoint, picnic areas, and a service center with restrooms and refreshments (open seasonally), it's a convenient and picturesque place to pause during your journey between Banff and Jasper. The surrounding landscape includes dramatic mountain ranges and wide river valleys that are especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Whether you're stretching your legs, capturing the scenery, or reflecting on the region's history, Saskatchewan River Crossing is a meaningful and memorable stop on any Icefields Parkway adventure.
Pass by without stopping
Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
Perched at an elevation of over 2,000 meters along the world-renowned Icefields Parkway, the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is more than just a visitor stop—it's the beating heart of glacier exploration in the Canadian Rockies. Located in Jasper National Park, directly across from the Athabasca Glacier, the Discovery Centre offers a rare opportunity to learn, dine, shop, and embark on once-in-a-lifetime adventures—all within one spectacular alpine setting.
45 minutes here · Admission not included
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Step into the sky with the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, an awe-inspiring glass-floored platform suspended 280 meters (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley in Jasper National Park. This cliff-edge walkway offers a thrilling perspective of the surrounding glaciers, waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and vast alpine landscapes. Your experience begins with a scenic shuttle ride from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, followed by an interpretive walk featuring engaging exhibits on geology, wildlife, and Indigenous history. At the Skywalk, panoramic views stretch across the untouched wilderness of the Canadian Rockies, while the glass-bottom design allows you to look directly down into the dramatic canyon below. Ideal for photographers, families, and adventure seekers, this accessible attraction offers a safe yet exhilarating way to connect with nature. Whether part of a glacier tour or a standalone visit, the Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a must-see highlight along the Icefields Parkway.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Athabasca Glacier
The Athabasca Glacier, part of the massive Columbia Icefield in Jasper National Park, is one of the most accessible and iconic glaciers in the Canadian Rockies. This stunning river of ancient ice stretches over 6 kilometers and plunges nearly 300 meters deep, offering a rare chance to walk on and explore a moving glacier. Visitors can join a guided Ice Explorer tour aboard a specially designed vehicle that travels directly onto the glacier’s surface, where you can step out, touch the ice, and even drink fresh glacial meltwater. Alternatively, a short trail leads to the glacier’s toe, where interpretive signs highlight its dramatic retreat due to climate change. Surrounded by towering peaks and alpine beauty, the Athabasca Glacier offers an unforgettable educational and visual experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventurer, or photographer, this glacial wonder is a must-see stop along the Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper
90 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Canmore
our pickup time is 9:50 am
Meeting point
Canmore
our pickup time is 9:30 am
Meeting point
Canmore
Please wait across the street of Delta Hotel our pickup time is 8:00 am
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
our pickup time is 9:50 am
Ends at
our pickup time is 9:30 am
Ends at
Please wait across the street of Delta Hotel our pickup time is 8:00 am
Options you can book
2801 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore
Our pick up time is 9:30AM
Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa
Our pick up time is 9:50AM
Delta Hotel Downtown,Calgary
Our pick up time is 8:00am
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- pa, hi, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Banff Trip
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please purchase the tickets of Columbia Icefield activities (Skywalk and ice explorer) in advance with time slot between 2:30 PM or 3:00 PM because due to summer season sometimes tickets are not available on counter & it's mandatory and you can go for hike near the glacier
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 23 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
23 verified traveler reviews for Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
It was such a great day...
It was such a great day with so many beautiful places to see and amazing views of the mountains and lakes . Our tour guide Guri was amazing. Will absolutely do it again. very well organized. Thanks a lot to everyone arranging it avd making it an amazing experience .
via Viator
Once in a lifetime experience
A wonderful experience, but a little pricey.
via Tripadvisor
Tour cancelled, no reason given.
Local tour operator Banff Trip cancelled it the day before, not bothering to give an explanation/reason. Although refund was issued right away, in the context of limited vacation time from overseas, made it impossible to reschedule the experience. If you going to book with this agency, be aware you will end up missing out. They couldn’t care less. 100% unprofessional.
Response from the operator: We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and disappointment caused by the cancellation of your tour, especially considering that you were visiting from overseas with limited vacation time. Unfortunately, our vehicle experienced an unexpected breakdown on the highway the day before the scheduled tour. For safety reasons, we were unable to operate the tour as planned. This was an unforeseen mechanical issue and was completely beyond our control. As soon as we became aware that we could not operate the tour, we initiated a full refund immediately. We understand, however, that a refund cannot make up for the valuable vacation time you lost or the opportunity to reschedule. We regret that we were unable to provide the experience you had planned for and understand your frustration. We always do our best to operate our tours safely and reliably, and we hope you can understand that the cancellation was caused by an unexpected vehicle breakdown rather than a lack of care or professionalism.
via Tripadvisor
Very positive experience
Very nice tour, friendly and nice guide and driver. The only detail i would recommend to change will be to ask consumers to purchase 2 pm not 2.45 pm glacier tickets so the group does not wait for the passenger who books it from viator. Viator suggest 2.30, 4.45 pm tickets. But the driver was very nice and accommodated all of us
via Viator
Amazing Tour Guide
Our tour guide AK was warm, knowledgeable and friendly. He made our experience amazing and was cordial and helpful. The overall tour was very well thought and well arranged. Would definitely recommend.
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
- $65 to $109
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 8
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 66
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Canmore.
How much does Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes cost?
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Prices start at $65 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Canmore usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes 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 Canmore is not rushed.
Is Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 66 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 23 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Canmore, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes?
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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 Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes 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 Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes?
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Around 8 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 Canmore 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 Canmore and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes 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 Canmore 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 Canmore?
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On Outty we rank every Canmore experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Explore Banff, Moraine Lake, Louise, Johnston Canyon & Bow Falls, 8 Iconic Stops. 12 Comfy Seats. See Banff's Best in First Class., Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Tour from Calgary - Canmore - Banff. 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 Canmore?
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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 Canmore?
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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 Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes?
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Included: Carbonated beverages; Snacks; In-vehicle air conditioning; and water bottels. Not included: Lunch; travel insurance; and Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes?
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our pickup time is 9:50 am Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes offered in?
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It is offered in Punjabi, Hindi and 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 Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes?
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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 Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes 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 Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes?
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Across 23 reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Calgary: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, Crowfoot Glacier and Lakes?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including 2801 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore, Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa, Delta Hotel Downtown,Calgary. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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