Columbia Icefields Adventure

Columbia Icefields Adventure is a popular activity along the Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada but is it worth the two-hour drive from Banff or one-hour drive from Jasper?

Our opinion? Maybe…

Pros:

• The drive from Banff along the Icefields Parkway is GORGEOUS.  If you don’t have a car, there are lots of private and large group tour options.
• If you want to get close to a glacier but don’t want to take a tour that involves a hike, this is an easy way to experience one.
• Riding in the Ice Explorer is pretty cool.
• The views from the Skywalk are great on a clear day, you may even see some mountain goats.

Cons:

• It’s a super popular activity so the parking lot is packed.
• The tour is a little cheesy. It would be great for kids that are able to walk on their own (making it easier for parents).
• You only get a few minutes to walk and take pictures on the glacier.
• No crampons or micro spikes are provided so wear sturdy shoes and tread carefully as we saw someone fall.

If you’ve experienced a glacier up close before like we have, this will probably be a little underwhelming.  If you haven’t and aren’t up for a full glacier hike, then this would be a great experience for you.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

There are two options for your Icefields Adventure. The first is the full tour which lasts about 2.5 hours and includes the glacier exploration as well as the Skywalk. The second option is the Skywalk by itself. Both options start at the Glacier Discovery Center. Your ticket will have a timed entry. You’ll go through the queue and board a shuttle bus that will take you across the road to the Ice Explorer staging area.

From here, you’ll board the Ice Explorer and head onto the Athabasca Glacier. Once on the glacier, you’ll be given about 15 minutes to walk on the glacier and take pictures.

After your time on the glacier, you’ll board the Ice Explorer and head back to the shuttle bus. After a short ride along the Sunwapta River, you’ll arrive at the Skywalk. A short walk out with gorgeous views all around you, takes you to the edge of the skywalk and it’s glass floor. Make sure to look down and see if you can spot any mountain goats!

TIPS:

Wear sturdy shoes as there is no gear provided, and ice is well, slippery.  Take a rain/wind breaker as weather can change quickly.

COST:

Prices start at $153 pp/CAD (2025). You can find slightly cheaper rates via our Viator link and discounts exist for Alberta residents. This activity can also be bundled in one of the Pursuit Passes offered directly on their website.

Are you ready to climb in and explore?