
Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views
Traveler rating
3.0/5
Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views worth booking?
Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views is a 10-hour experience in Banff, Canada, from $474 per person. It scores 43 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3/5 rating across 6 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 43 / 100
- Rating
- 3/5 (6)
- Duration
- 10 hours
- From
- $474 per person
Explore the breathtaking Columbia Icefield and its stunning glaciers on this memorable day tour in the Canadian Rockies. Traverse the scenic Icefields Parkway, renowned for its captivating landscapes, as you make stops at Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, and the iconic Peyto Lake. Optional add-ons include the Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier and the Skywalk, perched high above the Sunwapta Valley. With knowledgeable local guides, get ready for an adventure filled with natural wonders and picturesque views that will leave you in awe. - Discover the Columbia Icefield, the largest outside the Arctic Circle - Scenic stops at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Crowfoot Glacier - Optional Ice Explorer ride and Skywalk for a closer look - Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with a group size of 10-15 guests
What you get
About this experience
Explore the breathtaking Columbia Icefield and its stunning glaciers on this memorable day tour in the Canadian Rockies. Traverse the scenic Icefields Parkway, renowned for its captivating landscapes, as you make stops at Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, and the iconic Peyto Lake. Optional add-ons include the Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier and the Skywalk, perched high above the Sunwapta Valley. With knowledgeable local guides, get ready for an adventure filled with natural wonders and picturesque views that will leave you in awe. - Discover the Columbia Icefield, the largest outside the Arctic Circle - Scenic stops at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Crowfoot Glacier - Optional Ice Explorer ride and Skywalk for a closer look - Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with a group size of 10-15 guests
What's included
Included
- Columbia Icefield Entry to Glacier by Walk
- Admission to Banff and Jasper National Park
- Bottel water
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional Driver and Guide (or Driver-Guide)
Not included
- Meals
- Gratuities
- Any personal and other expenses are not listed in the itinerary
- Icefield Adventure Entry Ticket can be paid directly at Icefield Gallery to purchase the ticket
- Columbia Icefield Skywalk Entry Ticket can be paid directly at Icefield Gallery
What you'll see and do
Bow Lake
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bow Lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect towering peaks and glaciers. A perfect stop along the Icefields Parkway for photos and peaceful mountain views.
30 minutes here
Peyto Lake
Marvel at the vibrant turquoise waters of Peyto Lake, uniquely shaped like a wolf’s head and framed by soaring peaks. A must-see stop on the Icefields Parkway, offering one of the Rockies’ most iconic viewpoints.
45 minutes here
Columbia Ice Field
Step onto the ancient Athabasca Glacier at the Columbia Icefield and feel the thrill of walking on ice thousands of years old. Experience breathtaking views and learn the stories behind this natural wonder of the Rockies.
120 minutes here · Admission not included
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Dare to walk the glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk, suspended high above the Sunwapta Valley. Take in panoramic mountain views and an exhilarating perspective of the Rockies like never before.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Banff
Meeting point
Banff
Meeting point
Banff
Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown, 4 Avenue Southeast, Calgary, AB, Canada Meet at the opposite side of the road from at 8AM
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown, 4 Avenue Southeast, Calgary, AB, Canada Meet at the opposite side of the road from at 8AM
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- hi, en, gu
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Scenic Shuttle Inc
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos





What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
Traveler reviews
6 verified traveler reviews for Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Icefield explorer tour
This was a must and was a little disappointed when it started raining as we were waiting to go over on the bus. The rain stopped though and it was beautiful on the glacier. Glad we got to do it and would recommend it to anyone as long as you can get around good as it was a little steep getting off the vehicle that took us over there and of course the glacier was ice. But thoroughly enjoyed with the spouse.
via Tripadvisor
The worst. DO NOT BOOK!
The worst! Do not book! Tour operator canceled on us at 1030p the night before, less than 12 hours before we were scheduled to leave. This was just hours after they told us what ice field tickets to buy, which cost us $630. Then, the operator refused to call me back after requesting a call through chat. Save your money and look else where. I’d give 0 stars but it wouldn’t give that as an option.
via Tripadvisor
No show and not yet reimbursed
They didn’t show up. We lost our day and I haven’t been reimbursed yet. I have deleted the app and will not use again.
via Viator
Exceptionally helpful and excellent service.
Kang was helpful and suggested sites for us to visit. I especially appreciated the Peyto Lake stop. It was breathtaking. He was also professional, friendly and knowledgeable about the parks and history of the region.
Response from the operator: Thanks for your valuable feedback!!!
via Viator
Disappointing experience with tour operator
We'd signed up for this trip leaving from Banff at 9.15am. On the day of, the Viator booking in the app showed as leaving at 8am - noticed barely in time. We rushed there at 8, thankfully we were staying a building over from the meeting spot. Nobody there. Tour Operator name was never listed in the booking. So I called Viator. They too could not reach the tour operator. But she confirmed that our trip was at 9.15am. Both she and I had messaged the tour operator with no response. We returned at 9.15am but again no one was there. Just then I see an email from Viator that "Scenic Shuttle Inc has notified us of a refund request, so we’ve processed a refund to the credit card". That's the first time we knew the tour operator name. Weather was clear so I'm not sure why it was cancelled, and why the zero notice. Thankfully we'd rented a car and covered all those places by car. I would advice that once you book thru Viator always reaching the tour operator soon after making the original booking. If you can't reach them, cancel and make alternate arrangements. If you do reach them, reconfirm by calling the operator a few days prior to your holiday. Viator team - I hope you hold this particular tour operator accountable.
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. First, we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and frustration caused by the cancellation of your tour. We understand how disappointing it is when travel plans change unexpectedly, especially during a vacation. As outlined in our tour terms and conditions on Viator, this particular group tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate. Unfortunately, the minimum passenger requirement was not met for your departure date, and the tour had to be cancelled. A full refund was automatically processed through Viator in accordance with their cancellation procedures. We also apologize for any confusion regarding the departure time and communication. This tour operates with multiple pickup locations and corresponding pickup times, and these details are provided in the booking information. However, we understand that the information displayed within third-party booking platforms can sometimes create confusion, and we regret that your experience was affected. We acknowledge that we could have communicated the cancellation more effectively and are reviewing our procedures to improve notification and response times for future guests. We appreciate your understanding and are glad that you were still able to explore the area and enjoy your visit to Banff National Park. Thank you again for your feedback. We value every guest's experience and will use your comments to continue improving our service. Sincerely, Scenic Shuttle Inc.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $474 to $649
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Scenic Shuttle Inc, who run 4 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 48.9.
See everything Scenic Shuttle Inc runsWhy this scores 43
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Banff.
How much does Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views cost?
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Prices start at $474 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 Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views take?
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Plan for about 10 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 Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 43 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3/5 across 6 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 Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views?
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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 Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views?
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Around 2 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 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views 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 Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views?
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Included: Columbia Icefield Entry to Glacier by Walk; Admission to Banff and Jasper National Park; Bottel water; Air-conditioned vehicle; and Professional Driver and Guide (or Driver-Guide). Not included: Meals; Gratuities; Any personal and other expenses are not listed in the itinerary; and Icefield Adventure Entry Ticket can be paid directly at Icefield Gallery to purchase the t. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 9 listed pickup locations in and around Banff. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views offered in?
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It is offered in Hindi, English and Gujarati. 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 Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views?
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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 Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views 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 Private Columbia Icefield Day Tour Ice Explorer and Scenic Views?
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Across 6 reviews averaging 3.0 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities. The views and photo stops come up again and again. One thing to know: Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
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