Jasper: Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer Ticket

Jasper National Park’s Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer Ticket offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the grandeur of one of Canada’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This guided tour takes adventurers on a thrilling journey, from a heart-stopping glass-bottomed platform suspended high above the Sunwapta Valley to a captivating ride on the ancient Athabasca Glacier. With panoramic vistas, live commentary, and the chance to sample the glacier’s crisp water, this unforgettable adventure promises to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or seeking a unique outdoor experience, the Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer Ticket is sure to exceed your expectations.

Contents hide

1 Tour Overview

2 Pricing and Availability

3 Highlights and Activities

4 Included in the Tour

5 Planning Your Visit

6 What to Bring

7 Customer Feedback

8 Frequently Asked Questions

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer Ticket offers a guided tour with live English commentary to explore the ancient Athabasca Glacier in Jasper National Park.
The ticket is priced at $83.95 per person and is non-refundable, but provides access to the glass-bottomed Skywalk platform 918 feet above the Sunwapta Valley.
The Ice Explorer ride lasts approximately 20 minutes, allowing visitors to walk on the glacier and taste the crisp glacier water.
Visitors are advised to dress in warm, layered clothing and wear sturdy shoes, and arrive early to avoid delays at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center.
The tour has received positive feedback, with high ratings for the knowledgeable guides and smooth transportation, though some aspects of organization and service could be improved.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer Ticket offers visitors an immersive experience amidst the stunning glacial landscapes of Jasper National Park, providing a chance to explore the ancient Athabasca Glacier and marvel at the dramatic Sunwapta Valley from a breathtaking glass-bottomed platform.

Priced at $83.95 per person, this non-refundable ticket is valid for one day, allowing visitors to embark on a guided tour with live English commentary and multilingual audio guides.

The tour includes a ride on the Ice Explorer, a unique all-terrain vehicle that takes guests directly onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier, where they can taste the crisp glacier water and walk on ice that’s over 25,000 years old.

Afterward, visitors can enjoy the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-bottomed observation platform suspended 918 feet (279 meters) above the Sunwapta Valley, offering unparalleled views of the breathtaking surroundings.

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Pricing and Availability

For the Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer experience, guests can expect to pay $83.95 per person for the non-refundable ticket, which is valid for one day.

Visitors have the flexibility to check availability and select their desired starting time, allowing them to plan their adventure accordingly.

This breathtaking tour offers a unique opportunity to ride in an Ice Explorer on the Athabasca Glacier and walk on 25,000-year-old ice.

Plus, guests can enjoy the glass-bottomed Skywalk, which sits 918 feet (279 meters) above the Sunwapta Valley, providing awe-inspiring views.

Visitors are encouraged to book early to ensure availability, as this popular attraction can get quite crowded, especially during peak times.

Highlights and Activities

Guests can enjoy a variety of thrilling activities and breathtaking sights during their Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer experience. They’ll ride in an Ice Explorer vehicle onto the Athabasca Glacier, where they can walk directly on the 25,000-year-old ice, marveling at the glacier’s ancient history. The highlight of the tour is the glass-bottomed Skywalk, which suspends visitors 918 feet (279 meters) above the Sunwapta Valley, offering unparalleled views of the stunning landscape. Visitors can also taste the crisp, glacial water directly from the Athabasca Glacier. Throughout the tour, guests will enjoy live English commentary and multilingual audio guides, ensuring they fully enjoy this unforgettable adventure.

Activity	Duration	Highlights
Ice Explorer Ride	20 minutes	Walk on ancient glacier ice
Skywalk	Unlimited	918 ft (279 m) above Sunwapta Valley
Glacier Water Tasting	–	Refreshing, crisp glacial water

Included in the Tour

This tour includes a guided exploration of the Athabasca Glacier, where visitors can step directly onto the 25,000-year-old ice, as well as access to the renowned Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

Travelers are transported to the glacier and skywalk via a shuttle service, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience throughout their visit.

Adventurous guests can taste the crisp glacier water straight from the source, while the Skywalk offers unparalleled panoramic views from its glass-bottomed platform, 918 feet above the Sunwapta Valley.

With live English commentary and multilingual audio guides, the tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the grandeur of this natural wonder.

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Planning Your Visit

Preparing for the Columbia Icefield adventure requires a few key considerations to ensure a memorable and seamless experience.

First and foremost, dress appropriately for the conditions – warm, layered clothing and comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must. Don’t forget to bring your camera and a reusable water bottle to quench your thirst with the glacier’s pure water.

It’s also important to arrive at the designated meeting point, the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center, with plenty of time to spare. Given the popularity of this attraction, consider visiting in the afternoon to avoid larger crowds.

Finally, be sure to check the weather and book early in case of any tour rescheduling needs.

With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to fully learn about the breathtaking natural wonder of the Columbia Icefield.

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What to Bring

When packing for the Columbia Icefield adventure, visitors should bring a few essential items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Warm, layered clothing and sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must, as the weather can be unpredictable in the mountains. Plus, a reusable water bottle is highly recommended to stay hydrated with the glacier’s pure, refreshing water.

Other important items to consider include:

A camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking landscapes
Sunscreen and lip balm to protect against the strong mountain sun
A small backpack or bag to carry personal belongings during the tour

Customer Feedback

Visitors to the Columbia Icefield have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on their experiences, with the tour guides and transportation garnering particularly high praise.

According to over 1,100 reviews, the tour guides earn an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating, with customers highlighting their wealth of knowledge and engaging commentary. The transportation services are also highly regarded, scoring 4.7 out of 5, with visitors appreciating the smooth shuttle service to and from the glacier and Skywalk.

While the organization and overall service receive slightly lower ratings, customers consistently rave about the breathtaking landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk on the ancient Athabasca Glacier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Adventurous travelers may wonder what to expect and how to prepare for their Columbia Icefield excursion.

From ensuring proper attire to understanding tour timelines, let’s dive into the frequently asked questions about this breathtaking Canadian Rockies experience.

What should I wear? Comfort is key – dress in warm, layered clothing and wear sturdy, non-slip shoes. Don’t forget sun protection and a water bottle to stay hydrated.

What’s the schedule? Plan to spend around 2-3 hours exploring the glacier and skywalk, with 20 minutes on the glacier itself.

When’s the best time to go? While morning tours are popular, afternoon visits tend to be less crowded. With flexibility and a sense of adventure, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour?

You can purchase tickets on the day of the tour, but it’s recommended to book in advance as this popular attraction can sell out. Early booking ensures availability and flexibility in scheduling.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, visitors can upgrade to a private tour for a more personalized experience. Private tours offer exclusive access, flexible scheduling, and dedicated guides to enhance the Columbia Icefield adventure at an additional cost.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

Yes, there are discounts available for seniors and children. Seniors 65+ receive a 10% discount, while children ages 6-15 get a 20% reduction. Families can also save with a package deal for 2 adults and 2 children.

How Long Does the Entire Tour Experience Last?

The entire tour experience typically lasts around 2-3 hours. Visitors can enjoy the Ice Explorer ride on the Athabasca Glacier for up to 20 minutes and have unlimited time exploring the stunning Skywalk suspended high above the Sunwapta Valley.

Is There a Limit on the Number of People per Tour Group?

The tour group size is not explicitly stated, but it’s likely capped to provide a comfortable and intimate experience for visitors. Groups are guided and move together, ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the breathtaking icy landscapes and activities.