1 Day Columbia Icefield | Ice Explorer | Peyto Lake |From Calgary

Explore the majestic Canadian Rockies on a captivating one-day excursion from Calgary to the Columbia Icefield, one of the world’s largest non-polar glaciers. Marvel at the breathtaking ice walls and crevasses as you embark on a specialized Ice Explorer vehicle, designed for safe glacier navigation. Witness the stunning turquoise waters of Peyto Lake, a glacial-fed wonder, and keep an eye out for wildlife in the serene surroundings. This comprehensive tour includes essential inclusions, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. But that’s just the beginning – the true wonder awaits as you delve deeper into the heart of this captivating landscape.

Key Points

• Offers a one-day excursion from Calgary to explore the renowned Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, and experience the thrilling Ice Explorer ride.
• Includes key services like GST, traffic accident insurance, and National Park admission, as well as luggage allowance and optional extra checked-in luggage.
• Provides air-conditioned vehicle transportation and informative commentary from experienced guides on the history, geology, and ecology of the region.
• Allows visitors to marvel at the ice walls and crevasses of the Columbia Icefield, and take in the stunning views of the turquoise waters of Peyto Lake.
• Prioritizes comprehensive safety precautions for the tour, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Tour Details

The Columbia Icefield tour is a one-day excursion from Calgary that takes visitors on an air-conditioned vehicle journey.

The tour includes several key inclusions, such as GST, traffic accident insurance, and admission for the National Park. Plus, travelers are allotted a standard-sized carry-on luggage and extra checked-in luggage for a small fee.

The meeting point is located in downtown Calgary, and the tour departs promptly at 8:00 AM. Visitors should arrive at the meeting point by 7:45 AM.

While meals and personal expenses aren’t included, the tour provides a comprehensive experience, allowing guests to explore the stunning Columbia Icefield, ride the Ice Explorer, and visit the picturesque Peyto Lake.

Inclusions

The Columbia Icefield tour includes several key features, such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and traffic accident insurance coverage.

Visitors also receive admission to the National Park as part of the tour package.

Plus, travelers are allotted a standard-sized carry-on luggage allowance, and they can bring extra checked-in luggage for a small fee of CAD10 per piece.

These inclusions ensure that guests can enjoy the tour without worrying about additional costs for basic necessities. The tour’s comprehensive package allows visitors to focus on the stunning natural landscapes and the exciting activities, such as the Ice Explorer experience, without any unnecessary financial burdens.

Exclusions

While the Columbia Icefield tour covers a range of inclusions, certain expenses remain the responsibility of the participants. Gratuities for the tour guides and drivers aren’t included in the tour price, allowing guests to determine an appropriate amount based on the quality of service.

The cost of meals throughout the day isn’t bundled into the tour package, providing visitors the flexibility to dine at their own discretion.

Personal expenses, such as laundry, phone calls, and individual travel insurance, are excluded from the tour, as these are considered unique to each traveler’s needs and preferences.

The tour’s exclusions include:

1. Gratuities for tour guides and drivers
2. Meals throughout the day
3. Laundry
4. Phone calls and personal travel insurance

Meeting Point and Time

Guests participating in the Columbia Icefield tour will meet at the designated meeting point in downtown Calgary, located at 305 Centre St S, at 7:45 AM, with the tour departing promptly at 8:00 AM.

Travelers should arrive on time to ensure they don’t miss the departure, as the tour itinerary is tightly scheduled to maximize the experience.

The air-conditioned vehicle will transport guests from the meeting point to the various tour destinations, which include the iconic Columbia Icefield and the breathtaking Peyto Lake.

With clear directions and a reliable meeting time, guests can feel confident in starting their adventure with a smooth and punctual departure.

Columbia Icefield

The centerpiece of this tour is the majestic Columbia Icefield, one of the largest non-polar glaciers in the world. Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, this awe-inspiring natural wonder offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the power and grandeur of a glacier up close.

Visitors can:

• Marvel at the towering ice walls and deep crevasses of the glacier.
• Learn about the formation and movement of the ice through informative displays and exhibits.
• Take a thrilling ride on the specially designed Ice Explorer vehicles that navigate the glacier’s surface.
• Capture breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks and pristine wilderness.

Ice Explorer

One of the highlights of the Columbia Icefield tour is the thrilling Ice Explorer, a specialized vehicle designed to navigate the glacier’s rugged terrain. This massive all-terrain vehicle can carry up to 56 passengers safely across the sprawling ice field, providing unparalleled access to the heart of the glacier. The Ice Explorer experience is both educational and exhilarating, as visitors learn about the formation and evolution of the glacier while riding atop its frozen surface.

Feature	Description
Capacity	56 passengers
Tires	Specially designed for ice and snow
Power	Powerful diesel engine
Safety	Rollover protection and seatbelts

The Ice Explorer is a truly unique and unforgettable part of the Columbia Icefield tour, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the heart of this magnificent natural wonder.

Peyto Lake

After exploring the Columbia Icefield, the tour continues to the stunning Peyto Lake, a breathtaking glacial-fed lake renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Peyto Lake offers visitors a stunning natural display.

Visitors can:

• Take in the awe-inspiring views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
• Hike to the Peyto Lake viewpoint for the best vantage point.

Visitors may also have the opportunity to:

• Spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and even grizzly bears.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking in the serene atmosphere.

The tour provides an opportunity to take in the natural beauty of this iconic Canadian landscape.

Additional Information

Along With the stunning natural sights, the tour also provides informative commentary from the experienced guides, sharing insights about the history, geology, and ecology of the region.

Guests can learn about the formation of the majestic Columbia Icefield, one of the largest non-polar icefields in the world, and the unique ecosystems that thrive in the mountain environment.

The tour also includes comprehensive safety precautions, with the tour vehicles designed to safely navigate the rugged terrain.

Plus, the tour offers flexibility in accommodating travelers’ luggage needs, with a standard carry-on allowance and the option to check in extra bags for a nominal fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Journey From Calgary to the Columbia Icefield?

The journey from Calgary to the Columbia Icefield takes approximately 3 hours. The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, providing a comfortable and scenic drive through the Canadian Rockies to reach the iconic Columbia Icefield.

What Types of Activities Are Available at the Columbia Icefield?

At the Columbia Icefield, visitors can take an "Ice Explorer" tour, which is a unique all-terrain vehicle ride that allows them to step onto the ancient Athabasca Glacier. This guided experience provides an up-close look at the glacier’s impressive size and beauty.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Ice Explorer Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for the Ice Explorer tour at the Columbia Icefield. Participants of all ages can join the tour, which takes visitors onto the surface of the glacier in specialized all-terrain vehicles.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand for any restrictions or recommendations regarding outside food and beverages.

Are There Any Special Considerations for Those With Disabilities?

The tour operator provides accommodations for guests with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and assistance boarding the Ice Explorer. Guests should inform the operator of any special needs when booking to ensure a comfortable experience.

Recap

This captivating one-day excursion from Calgary offers an immersive exploration of the stunning Columbia Icefield and Peyto Lake.

Visitors will marvel at the glacier’s ice walls and crevasses while riding the specialized Ice Explorer, and witness the turquoise waters of the glacial-fed Peyto Lake.

With essential inclusions like GST, traffic accident insurance, and National Park admission, this tour promises an enriching and seamless experience.