Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour
Traveler rating
4.4/5
Based on 11 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour worth booking?
Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour is a 8-hour experience in Canmore, Canada, from $72 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 11 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 62 / 100
- Rating
- 4.4/5 (11)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $72 per person
Discover the wonders of the Canadian Rockies in a full-day tour. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Columbia Icefield, Icefields Parkway, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake, each offering breathtaking vistas and serene tranquility. Visit Columbia Icefield & Ice adventure from May 2 to Oct 13, weather dependent & date may vary, Winter alternatives are Lake Louise & Marble Canyon, Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge Journey along the world's most scenic drive - Icefields Parkway or Hwy 93 and uncover hidden gems waiting to be explored in Banff. This tour provides pick up point at Calgary/Canmore/Banff
What you get
About this experience
Discover the wonders of the Canadian Rockies in a full-day tour. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Columbia Icefield, Icefields Parkway, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake, each offering breathtaking vistas and serene tranquility. Visit Columbia Icefield & Ice adventure from May 2 to Oct 13, weather dependent & date may vary, Winter alternatives are Lake Louise & Marble Canyon, Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge Journey along the world's most scenic drive - Icefields Parkway or Hwy 93 and uncover hidden gems waiting to be explored in Banff. This tour provides pick up point at Calgary/Canmore/Banff
What's included
Included
- Air-conditioned tour van
- Visit Lake Louise, Marble Canyon, Emerald Lake and Natural Bridge from Mid October to Early May
- Local tour guide as driver
- In winter, crampon will be provided, use it at your own responsibility
- Visit Columbia Icefields from May to Mid-October
Not included
- Suggested tips $12 cash per person
- Meals at your own expense
- Travel insurance
- Columbia Icefield Adventure activity fees
What you'll see and do
Pass by the iconic mountain in Banff
Pass by without stopping
Vermilion Lakes
Pass by the iconic Lake in Banff
Pass by without stopping
Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
The Columbia Icefield, located along the Icefields Parkway in the Canadian Rockies, stands as the largest icefield in North America's Rocky Mountains, spanning the border of Alberta and British Columbia. This natural wonder offers visitors a chance to experience a glacier firsthand, providing a rare opportunity to witness the raw beauty and grandeur of nature up close. Journeying onto the Athabasca Glacier aboard specialized vehicles called Ice Explorers allows visitors to traverse its icy surface and immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring landscape. With its unparalleled beauty, accessibility, and educational value, the Columbia Icefield is an unforgettable destination. (add-on experience of snowcoach and skywalk at your expense) (Visit Columbia Icefield & Ice adventure from May 2 to Oct 12, weather dependent & date may vary, Winter alternatives are Lake Louise & Marble Canyon, Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge)
150 minutes here · Admission not included
Marble Canyon
(Alternative to Columbia Icefields in Winter from Mid-October to Early May) Known for its deep limestone gorge carved by the turquoise waters of Tokumm Creek. With towering canyon walls, picturesque bridges, and scenic walking trails, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore dramatic rock formations and witness the power of nature up close. Ideal for easy hikes and photography.
50 minutes here · Admission included
Lake Louise
(Alternative to Columbia Icefields in Winter from Mid-October to Early May)Lake Louise, a turquoise gem nestled in the heart of Banff National Park. Marvel at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Resort while taking in stunning views of Victoria Glacier at the foot of the snow-capped Mount Victoria. A perfect photo opportunity awaits you at the pristine shores of this glacial lake.
50 minutes here · Admission included
Perched 280 meters (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rugged mountains, deep valleys. (add-on experience of snowcoach and skywalk at your expense) (Visit Columbia Icefield & Ice adventure from May 2 to Oct 12, weather dependent & date may vary, Winter alternatives are Lake Louise & Marble Canyon, Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge)
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Emerald Lake
(Alternative to Columbia Icefields Skywalk in Winter from Mid-October to Early May) Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, with its striking emerald-green waters and mountain vistas. Whether you're strolling along the shoreline. Don't miss the picturesque wooden bridge for stunning photo opportunities.
25 minutes here · Admission included
Natural Bridge
(Alternative to Columbia Icefields Skywalk in Winter from Mid-October to Early May) Natural Bridge in Yoho National Park, sculpted by the relentless force of the Kicking Horse River over thousands of years. This breathtaking limestone arch spans the river, captivating visitors with its sheer beauty and grandeur.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Bow Lake
Bow Lake surrounded by lush forests and overlooked by Crowfoot Mountain, it offers a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation
15 minutes here · Admission included
Peyto Lake
Situated along the Icefields Parkway, Peyto Lake beckons with its mesmerizing turquoise waters and distinctive maple leaf shape, framed by the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains. Ideal for a brief hike, it treats visitors to breathtaking vistas of the lake and its mountainous backdrop.
30 minutes here · Admission included
admire the calm, reflective waters set against dramatic mountain backdrops. Known for its serene atmosphere and fewer crowds, it’s a perfect spot for photography and a quiet moment in nature.
10 minutes here · Admission included
Calgary
The tour will end in Banff, and you have the option to choose your drop-off location in Banff, Canmore, or Calgary. The transfer from Banff to Calgary typically takes approximately 90 minutes.
90 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Canmore
Please wait outside the hotel and our guide will come to meet you
Meeting point
Canmore
Please wait at the center and our guide will come to meet you
Meeting point
Canmore
Please wait at the bus stop on 4th Avenue, across the street from the Delta Hotel Calgary Downtown.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Drop off opposite the hotel across the street or at the parking lot behind Mount Royal hotel
Ends at
Drop off at the parking lot of the center
Ends at
Drop off at the bus stop on 4th Avenue, across the street from the Delta Hotel Calgary Downtown.
Options you can book
Banff Canalta lodge meet up
Starting point: Canalta Lodge Banff, 545 Banff Ave #1B5, Banff, AB T1L 1B5, Canada
Canmore meet up
Starting point: Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre, 2801 Bow Valley Trl, Canmore, AB T1W 3A2, Canada
Calgary Delta downtown meet up
Starting point: Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown, 209 4 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0C6, Canada
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 24 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Banff ToDo
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
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions, attraction closures, or traffic issues.
- Pack your own lunch or buy grab-to-go at Fairmont Café Lake Louise
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 11 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
11 verified traveler reviews for Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Amazing scenery on drive...
Amazing scenery on drive to natural wonders! Our Tour Guide/Driver Oscar was a wealth of information…
via Viator
Great driver guide Tammy
My wife and I took this bus tour from Banff to see the Columbia icefield and some lakes. We had a wonderful time and our guide Tammy was awesome. She was driving safely and was knowledgeable and friendly! Thanks Tammy!
via Tripadvisor
Misleading Tour, hidden fees
This is very misleading. It’s just a shuttle service to Icefields, the events at the Icefield is extra and they only tell you after you pay for it. It’s misleading since the pictures for this shuttle service show the paid events at icefields, like the glacier walk with the bus, in the page for this shuttle service. There were multiple people in the shuttle with me that thought the same as well, not just me. Also, this company changed the dates on us since they didn’t have enough people that day, what if we had other plans? I’ve noticed that a lot of companies here just has a driver that talks through the shuttle service and then call it a tour which is exactly what this is. Would not recommend this company again
Response from the operator: Hello Basil, Thank you for your feedback. We're sorry to hear there was a misunderstanding regarding the Columbia Icefield Adventure. We would like to clarify that it is clearly stated on the website that the Columbia Icefield Adventure activity fees are not included in the tour price. Additionally, we reached out to you three days before the tour with detailed information about Icefield tickets reservations and the pricing of it. This should give you enough time to decide whether to participate in the activity or cancel your booking for a refund. We’d also like to mention that none of the other guests in your group raised any concerns about the additional Columbia Icefield costs. Regarding the date change, we contacted you in advance, and you confirmed your agreement with the new date. Our tour offers more than just shuttle bus transportation, our local guide provides attractions information and local knowledge throughout the tour to ensure our guests with exceptional travel experience. We also visited scenic locations like Peyto Lake and Bow Lake to enhance the overall experience. We hope this helps clarify the situation, and we genuinely appreciate your understanding.
via Viator
We had an awesome time...
We had an awesome time with Tammy as our tour guide! We spent about 30 mins each at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake. Most of the time was spent at the Columbia Icefield which is a unique experience with the glacier and skywalk as optional activities. Definitely should do both. We highly recommend this tour!
via Viator
Trip of Lifetime!
Great scenery, great information from driver, fun activities, best trip ever, give it six stars out of five!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $72 to $99
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Banff ToDo, who run 15 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.4.
See everything Banff ToDo runsWhy this scores 62
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Canmore.
How much does Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour cost?
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Prices start at $72 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 Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour take?
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Plan for about 8 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 Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake 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 (4.4/5 across 11 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 Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake 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 Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour?
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Around 4 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 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake 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 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 Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour?
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Included: Air-conditioned tour van; Visit Lake Louise, Marble Canyon, Emerald Lake and Natural Bridge from Mid October to Earl; Local tour guide as driver; In winter, crampon will be provided, use it at your own responsibility; and Visit Columbia Icefields from May to Mid-October. Not included: Suggested tips $12 cash per person; Meals at your own expense; Travel insurance; and Columbia Icefield Adventure activity fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour?
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Please wait outside the hotel and our guide will come to meet you Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake 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 Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake 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 Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake 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 Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake 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 Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour?
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Across 11 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Columbia icefield, Parkway 93, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake Tour?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Banff Canalta lodge meet up, Canmore meet up, Calgary Delta downtown meet up. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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