The Columbia Icefield Tour from Calgary promises an unforgettable journey through the majestic Canadian Rockies. Travelers embark on a full-day adventure, exploring the iconic Icefields Parkway and witnessing the raw grandeur of the region’s natural beauty. From the turquoise waters of Lake Louise to the thrilling ride on the all-terrain Ice Explorer, this tour immerses visitors in the breathtaking landscapes that have captivated adventurers for generations. With a focus on the area’s wildlife and geological wonders, the experience invites participants to discover the secrets that lie within this awe-inspiring corner of the world. What awaits those who choose to venture on this remarkable tour?
Key Points
- A 14-hour day trip from Calgary exploring the majestic scenery along the Icefields Parkway, including iconic sites like Lake Louise and the Athabasca Glacier.
- Includes a ride on the all-terrain Ice Explorer on the Athabasca Glacier and admission to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
- Offers a hot buffet lunch, air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off, and immersion in the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
- Operates seasonally from May to October, with a moderate level of physical fitness required and a maximum group size of 25 travelers.
- Provides opportunities to marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, spot wildlife, and experience the raw natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Tour Overview
This 14-hour day trip from Calgary allows travelers to explore the majestic scenery along the Icefields Parkway, visiting iconic sites like Lake Louise and riding the all-terrain Ice Explorer on the Athabasca Glacier before exploring and dining in Banff.
The tour includes a hot buffet lunch, a ride in the Ice Explorer, air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off at multiple locations, and admission to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
While gratuities and personal food and drinks are excluded, the tour ensures a comprehensive experience exploring the natural wonders of this stunning region.
With multiple daily departures, this tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Calgary.
Inclusions
In an article titled ‘Columbia Icefield Tour With Glacier Skywalk From Calgary’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Inclusions’.
The tour includes a hot buffet lunch, allowing travelers to refuel during their adventures. A ride in the Ice Explorer provides an up-close encounter with the Athabasca Glacier.
Plus, the air-conditioned vehicle offers comfortable transportation with pick-up and drop-off at multiple locations. Admission to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk is also included, enabling visitors to experience the stunning natural scenery from an elevated viewpoint.
Enjoy the majestic landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
Witness the grandeur of the Athabasca Glacier up close.
Gain a new perspective from the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
Enjoy a delicious hot buffet lunch to fuel your explorations.
Exclusions
While the tour includes several amenities, it doesn’t cover gratuities or additional food and drinks. Travelers are responsible for covering these expenses out-of-pocket during their journey.
Gratuities for the tour guide and driver aren’t included in the tour price, allowing guests to show their appreciation based on the level of service received.
Similarly, any additional snacks, meals, or beverages beyond the hot buffet lunch provided are at the traveler’s own expense. This allows for flexibility and personal preference when it comes to dining options throughout the day.
Pickup Details
The Columbia Icefield Tour offers convenient pickup locations, with guests able to board the air-conditioned vehicle at either the Sandman Hotel Calgary or the Calgary Marriott Downtown, with a departure time of 6:15 am.
This early start ensures ample time to explore the majestic scenery and iconic sites along the Icefields Parkway.
The tour provides a seamless and stress-free experience, allowing guests to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
Depart from centrally located hotels for a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Enjoy comfortable transportation in a climate-controlled coach.
Arrive at the Columbia Icefield with ample time to experience the highlights.
Relax and let the expert guides handle the logistics of the day.
Additional Information
This tour operates seasonally from May to October, allowing visitors to experience the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies during the warmer months.
Guests with limited mobility can still enjoy the tour, as the Columbia Icefield Tour is wheelchair accessible. Those traveling with service animals will be pleased to know that they’re welcomed on the excursion.
However, a moderate level of physical fitness is required to fully participate in the activities. The tour group size is capped at a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.
Infants must sit on laps, and gratuities as well as additional food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price.
Exploring the Icefields Parkway
Winding through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Icefields Parkway offers travelers a breathtaking journey past towering glaciers, pristine alpine lakes, and rugged mountain peaks. This iconic stretch of highway is a must-see for anyone visiting the region, showcasing the raw natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Along the way, visitors can:
- Marvel at the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Louise, one of the most photographed destinations in the world
- Gaze in awe at the Athabasca Glacier, a massive river of ice that cascades down from the Columbia Icefield
Visitors can also:
- Hike through ancient forests and discover hidden waterfalls and alpine meadows
- Spot wildlife such as elk, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears in their natural habitat
Discovering Lake Louise
Why is Lake Louise one of the most photographed destinations in the world? Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, this iconic alpine lake captivates visitors with its breathtaking turquoise waters, framed by the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
On the Columbia Icefield tour, you’ll have the chance to explore this natural wonder up close. Stroll along the lakeshore, admiring the Victoria Glacier that feeds the lake, or hike up to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for panoramic views.
Whether you’re snapping photos or simply taking in the serene beauty, Lake Louise is sure to be a highlight of your Icefields Parkway adventure.
Riding the Ice Explorer
In an article titled ‘Columbia Icefield Tour With Glacier Skywalk From Calgary’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Riding the Ice Explorer’.
After traversing the scenic Icefields Parkway, visitors board the all-terrain Ice Explorer to venture onto the Athabasca Glacier. This specialized vehicle, designed specifically for glacier travel, slowly climbs the ancient ice field, providing an up-close encounter with one of the largest non-polar ice masses in the world.
The experience is both awe-inspiring and humbling, as travelers:
- Gaze in wonder at the pristine, blue-tinged ice beneath their feet
- Feel the chill of the glacier’s icy breath on their skin
- Appreciate the sheer magnitude and power of the natural wonder
- Contemplate the glacier’s fragility in the face of climate change
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Customers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though meals and beverages are not included in the tour price. The tour operator suggests checking the inclusions and exclusions before the trip.
Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?
Yes, there are restroom facilities available at various stops throughout the tour. Travelers can use the restrooms during scheduled breaks and at the main sites visited during the day.
Can I Extend the Length of the Tour?
Travelers can generally not extend the length of the tour. The tour has a set 14-hour itinerary, and extending it would require additional arrangements and costs. However, customers should check with the tour operator about any customization options available.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
There is no information provided about a private tour option. The tour appears to be a group experience with a maximum of 25 travelers. Private tours may be available for an additional fee, but details are not specified.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity?
The tour allocates specific time frames for each activity, allowing visitors to fully explore the majestic scenery, iconic sites, and interactive experiences. Guests can expect a well-paced itinerary that maximizes their enjoyment of the day’s highlights.
Recap
The Columbia Icefield Tour from Calgary is a captivating journey through the majestic Canadian Rockies.
Travelers marvel at the region’s natural wonders, from the turquoise waters of Lake Louise to the awe-inspiring Athabasca Glacier.
With comfortable transportation, a hot buffet lunch, and the thrilling Skywalk experience, this tour offers an immersive and unforgettable exploration of the raw grandeur of the Rocky Mountains.
More Tours in Calgary
- Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour
- Calgary: Glaciers, Mountains, Lakes, Canmore and Banff Tour
- Banff Explorer Tour W/ Moraine Lake & Lake Louise | Private
- Winter Tour From Canmore Lake Louise, Marble Canyon, Banff
- From Calgary: Canadian Badlands Private Geological Tour
- Moraine , Lake Louise ,Emerald Lake & Johnston Canyon Tour
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- From Calgary: 1-Day Waterton Lakes National Park Tour
- Winter Tour From Calgary Johnston Canyon,Marble Canyon,Banff
- Pedal the Picturesque: Calgary & Bow River Bike Tour
- Calgary to Lake Louise (Private Transfer)
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