From Calgary/Banff: Columbia Icefield Day Trip

Nestled amidst the majestic Canadian Rockies, the Columbia Icefield Day Trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of nature’s most awe-inspiring wonders. Departing from either Calgary or Banff, this comprehensive excursion guides adventurers along the breathtaking Icefields Parkway, inviting them to witness the grandeur of iconic sites like Bow Lake and Peyto Lake. The highlight of the journey, however, lies in the chance to venture onto the ancient Athabasca Glacier, where the Ice Explorer experience provides an intimate encounter with the region’s glacial heritage. With transportation and lunch included, this captivating tour promises to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on its journey.

Key Points

• A 10-hour guided excursion from Banff or Calgary to the 25,000-year-old Columbia Icefield, including transportation and a visit to the Athabasca Glacier.
• Scenic stops along the Icefields Parkway at Bow Lake, Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint, and Peyto Lake, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
• Option to add the thrilling Ice Explorer journey for direct glacier access and the Columbia Icefield Skywalk with a glass-floored walkway.
• Guided tour highlighting the geography, wildlife, and climate change impacts on the Athabasca Glacier.
• Included lunch and national park entrance fee, with transportation to and from the starting points in Banff and Calgary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Columbia Icefield Day Trip is a 10-hour excursion that takes visitors from Banff or Calgary to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.

Priced from £92.43 per person, the tour includes transportation, a guided visit to the 25,000-year-old Columbia Icefield, and optional add-ons like the Ice Explorer journey.

Participants can enjoy scenic stops at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and the Crowfoot Glacier viewpoint along the way.

The tour is offered in English and Chinese, and features a cancellation policy that allows for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

While not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour provides a comprehensive experience to witness the region’s natural wonders.

Activity Highlights

Visitors on the Columbia Icefield Day Trip can expect a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, which takes approximately 2 hours to reach the icefield.

Upon arrival, they’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour of the 25,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier, with an optional add-on for the Ice Explorer journey to venture directly onto the glacier.

The tour also includes stops at:

1. Bow Lake, offering stunning reflections of the Crowfoot Mountain Range.

2. Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint, showcasing the glacier’s distinctive crow’s claw-like appearance.

3. Peyto Lake, known for its vibrant glacial hues and frozen wave-like appearance.

4. The Columbia Icefield Skywalk, providing an exhilarating glass-floored walkway over the glacial landscape.

Itinerary Details

After exploring the scenic highlights along the Icefields Parkway, the Columbia Icefield Day Trip takes visitors on a guided tour of the 25,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier, which covers a significant portion of the tour’s duration.

Guests can opt for the thrilling Ice Explorer journey, which provides an up-close encounter with the ancient ice formation.

The tour also includes stops at Bow Lake, where the Crowfoot Mountain Range reflects beautifully on the water’s surface, and Peyto Lake, known for its frozen wave appearance due to glacial minerals.

Throughout the day, the expert guide shares insights about the region’s geography, wildlife, and the impacts of climate change on these stunning natural wonders.

Scenic Attractions

Peyto Lake is renowned for its striking glacial-fed appearance, with its vivid blue hue and frozen wave-like texture created by the presence of glacial minerals. Nearby, the reflective Bow Lake offers a picturesque view of the Crowfoot Mountain Range.

The Columbia Icefield, a 25,000-year-old natural wonder, is the star attraction of the region. Its centerpiece, the Athabasca Glacier, stands as a tangible reminder of the impacts of climate change. Equally noteworthy is the Crowfoot Glacier, whose unique shape resembles a crow’s claws.

These scenic attractions showcase the incredible natural beauty and geological history of the Canadian Rockies, leaving visitors in awe.

Here are 4 top sights to enjoy on the Columbia Icefield Day Trip:

1. Peyto Lake

2. Bow Lake

3. Columbia Icefield

4. Crowfoot Glacier

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Transportation and Amenities

The tour includes transportation from the designated starting locations of Banff Aspen Lodge and Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel & Suites by APA, with drop-off at the same points at the end of the day. A provided lunch is part of the package, along with the national park entrance fee and a service charge for the driver and guide. However, the Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer journey, which allows visitors to experience the Athabasca Glacier up close, comes at an additional cost.

Transportation	Lunch	National Park Fee	Service Charge	Ice Explorer Journey
Included	Provided	Included	For driver and guide	Additional cost

The tour experience is designed to provide a hassle-free day trip, with the focus on the scenic attractions and natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies.

Accessibility Considerations

According to the information provided, the Columbia Icefield Day Trip isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. The tour involves extensive walking, uneven terrain, and navigating through natural environments that may pose challenges for those with mobility restrictions.

While the scenic highlights, such as Peyto Lake and the Columbia Icefield, are breathtaking, the accessibility of these locations may be limited.

To ensure all guests can enjoy the tour to the fullest, the following accommodations are recommended:

1. Guests with special needs should inquire about accessibility options prior to booking.

2. The tour operator may be able to provide assistance or alternative arrangements for those with mobility issues.

3. Proper footwear and physical preparedness are essential for navigating the outdoor environments.

4. Guests should communicate any concerns or needs to the tour staff to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided a range of feedback on the Columbia Icefield Day Trip, with an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars based on 4 reviews.

Many noted that the scenic attractions, such as Peyto Lake and the Crowfoot Glacier, were worthwhile and lived up to expectations.

However, some customers wished for additional inclusions, such as more free time at the sites or a more engaging guide.

While the transportation and lunch were appreciated, a few reviewers felt the tour could be improved with better organization and more attentive guides.

Booking Information

Travelers can book the Columbia Icefield Day Trip through the tour provider’s website or by contacting their customer service team.

Bookings can be made for starting locations in Banff and Calgary, with return drop-off at the same points. Pricing for the tour starts at £92.43 per person, and a free cancellation policy is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour offers the following:

1. Guided exploration of the 25,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier.

2. Scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway with stops at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Crowfoot Glacier viewpoint.

3. Complimentary transportation and lunch.

4. Inclusion of the National Park fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Extend the Trip Duration or Add More Stops?

The tour duration and stops can be extended or added, but this may incur additional fees. Customers should consult with the tour operator to discuss customization options and pricing. Flexibility is often available, subject to availability and any cost increases.

Is Photography Equipment Allowed on the Ice Explorer Journey?

Photography equipment is generally allowed on the ice explorer journey, though visitors should check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions. Handheld cameras and phones are typically permitted, but tripods or other bulky equipment may have limited access.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the Columbia Icefield tour. However, a provided lunch is included in the tour package, so bringing additional snacks is optional. Participants should check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines.

Is There an Option to Visit the Skywalk at the Columbia Icefield?

Yes, there is an optional add-on available to visit the Glacier Skywalk at the Columbia Icefield. This glass-floored observation platform provides stunning views over the glaciers and costs an additional fee beyond the standard day trip.

Do We Need Special Clothing or Footwear for the Tour?

The tour provides recommendations for appropriate clothing and footwear. Visitors should dress warmly in layers and wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes to navigate the icy and uneven terrain during the Columbia Icefield experience.

Recap

The Columbia Icefield Day Trip from Calgary or Banff provides an unforgettable experience in the awe-inspiring Canadian Rockies.

Visitors can explore the ancient Athabasca Glacier, admire the breathtaking Bow and Peyto Lakes, and learn about the region’s captivating natural history.

With convenient transportation, a delicious lunch, and a range of accessibility options, this tour is an ideal way to take in the wonders of the Icefields Parkway.

You can check if your dates are available here: