Icefield Parkway Discovery Tour from Banff
Overview
Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride on one of the world’s most spectacular roads — the Icefields Parkway. Travel past visible glaciers, waterfalls, turquoise lakes and dynamic landscapes that tell stories of resilience and regrowth. Then, venture onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier in a specially designed Ice Explorer and walk onto a glass-floored observation platform at the Skywalk.
Included
- Icefields Parkway, Crowfoot Glacier (seasonal), Bow Lake, Peyto Lake (seasonal), Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Falls
- Admissions to Columbia Icefield Adventure & Columbia Icefield Skywalk
- A hot buffet lunch at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre
- Dedicated on-board Host
- Light snacks & refreshments
Excluded
- Pets are not allowed on the Tour
- Booster Seats are not available
- Driver Gratuities
Important information
Is lunch included on this tour?
Yes. A hot lunch buffet is provided at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
What should I wear on my tour?
Wear layers, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes with grip (sneakers or hiking boots). Sunglasses, an empty water bottle to fill with glacier water, and a camera are recommended.
What does this tour highlight?
You’ll visit locations in Banff National Park including the Icefields Parkway, Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield Adventure and the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
How much time will we spend at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake?
The tour stops for around 40 minutes at Peyto Lake (early season parking may be inaccessible). Time at Bow Lake is determined by the driver’s discretion.
Do we get off the motor coach at Crowfoot Glacier
Stop duration at Crowfoot Glacier is at the driver’s discretion; if time allows, the driver will stop at the viewpoint.
How much time will we spend at Lake Louise?
Guests usually spend approximately 15–20 minutes at Lake Louise.
Can I end my tour in Lake Louise?
Yes. If you start the Columbia Icefield Discovery from Banff you may end the trip in Lake Louise—tell your driver. The price remains the same as a return trip to Banff.
How long is the Columbia Icefield Adventure tour?
Allow about 3 hours for the full experience, including the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
Is it possible to walk on the glacier during the Columbia Icefield Adventure?
Yes. Halfway through the tour you can step onto the Athabasca Glacier; please stay within the clearly marked, regularly maintained safe area.
How many people does the Ice Explorer hold?
Each Ice Explorer can transport up to 56 passengers.
What will the weather be like at the Columbia Icefield?
Weather can change quickly (sun to snow). Dress in warm layers and wear closed-toe shoes with sturdy soles. Temperatures on the ice are about 15°C cooler than at the Glacier Discovery Centre.
Are your tours wheelchair accessible?
Not all tours are wheelchair accessible. If you need a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, contact 1.866.360.8839.
Are your tours child-friendly?
Yes. Tours are family-friendly. Car seats or boosters are required for small children.
Are small children and infants free of charge?
Children 5 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Car seats or boosters are required for small children.
What amenities do the sightseeing motor coaches have?
52-seat luxury coaches with large windows, onboard washroom facilities, reclining seats, climate control, onboard refreshments, and a professionally trained tour guide.
Is there Wi‑Fi on the sightseeing motor coach?
No. Wi‑Fi is not available on sightseeing tours due to limited reception in the areas traveled.
Will I see wildlife on the tour?
Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed. Bears, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, deer and others inhabit the parks and sightings are unpredictable.
What is the physical difficulty level of the tour?
The tour involves short disembarks for views and photos and requires only light walking. High altitude may make activities slightly more strenuous; ask staff for assistance if needed.