Join the guided Columbia Icefields tour to the Athabasca Glacier aboard the Ice Explorer—an all-terrain vehicle built for glacial travel. As you roll past towering peaks and ancient ice, your guide shares the geology, history, and stories of this remarkable place.
At your scheduled departure, hop into the massive Ice Explorer and set off across the glacier. Step out onto 25,000-year-old ice, feel it crunch underfoot, and sip crisp, pure meltwater straight from the source (be sure to bring a small clear container)—an experience you won’t forget.
Finish with a short ride to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk. Test your nerves on a glass-floored platform with 918 feet (279 meters) and soak up sweeping views of the mountains, glaciers, and the Sunwapta River and its waterfalls below.
What & where is the Columbia Icefield?
The Columbia Icefield is the largest body of ice in the Canadian Rockies in Jasper National Park. It sits high on the Continental Divide along the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) between Lake Louise and Jasper.
Think of it as a massive frozen plateau that feeds several glaciers, including the well-known Athabasca Glacier. Most visitors access it from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.
What is the Columbia Icefields Skywalk?
The Columbia Icefields Skywalk is a cliff-edge, glass-floored walkway that hangs high above the Sunwapta Valley, delivering big-screen views of jagged peaks, waterfalls, and the glacier-carved landscape below.
You’ll reach it by shuttle from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre (no extra driving required), then follow a short interpretive boardwalk to the cantilevered platform.
Step onto the glass to feel that tummy-flip moment, or linger at the railings to watch for mountain goats on the cliffs. It’s an easy, year-round highlight that pairs perfectly with the Glacier Adventure—ideal if you want dramatic scenery without a long hike.
The Easiest Way to Experience Both
Book the Glacier Adventure + Skywalk combo, it’s the best Columbia Icefields Tour to see the highlights without the logistics headache.
You’ll depart from the Discovery Centre, ride an all-terrain Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier, step out to feel the ancient ice underfoot, then continue to the glass-floored Skywalk for big valley views.
The Columbia Icefields tour I recommend (and used) HERE
Quick tips
- Reserve ahead—spots fill fast in peak season.
- Arrive a little early; parking and check-in can take a minute.
- Dress like it’s colder than town: warm layers, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes.
- Bring a refillable bottle if you want to taste glacier meltwater.
- Weather changes quickly at altitude—build flex time into your day.
- Check accessibility and age/health notes on the booking page before you go.
FAQ: Columbia Icefield (Athabasca Glacier & Skywalk)
How do I book a tour?
Reserve in advance, especially in peak season. The Columbia Icefield tour sells out months in advance due to the popularity of Jasper National Park and the surrounding Parks.
Where is the Columbia Icefield?
Along the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) between Lake Louise and Jasper, in the Canadian Rockies.
What is the Columbia Icefield?
A high-elevation ice mass that feeds several glaciers, including the Athabasca Glacier, straddles the Continental Divide.
How do I visit the Athabasca Glacier?
Most visitors depart from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre on guided glacier tours.
Do I need a tour to walk on the glacier?
Yes—walking on the Athabasca Glacier is only permitted with a certified guided experience for safety.
What’s the easiest tour option?
The Glacier Adventure + Skywalk combo departs from the Discovery Centre and includes the Ice Explorer ride and the glass-bottom Skywalk.
How long does the tour take?
The Columbia Icefield Tour is around 2.5–3 hours for the full glacier + Skywalk experience, including transfers.
What should I wear?
Warm layers, a windproof jacket, hat, gloves, and sturdy closed-toe shoes—even in summer.
Is the Skywalk safe (or scary)?
It’s engineered with high safety standards; those with a fear of heights may find it intimidating.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes. Check the minimum age/height notes on your tour and keep kids close on elevated walkways.
Is it accessible?
Portions of the experience are accessible. Confirm wheelchair access and assistance needs with the tour operator.
Can I drink glacier water?
Some tours allow a small taste of meltwater. Only do so if your guide says it’s okay.
When is the best time to visit?
Late spring through early fall offers more stable conditions; weather can change quickly year-round.
Do I need a Parks Canada pass?
Yes, a valid pass is required to travel and stop along the Icefields Parkway.
Are drones allowed?
Generally, no recreational drone use is not permitted in Canada’s national parks without authorization.
What about road and cell service?
Expect limited cell coverage; check weather and road conditions in advance and fuel up before you go.
Book the Glacier Adventure + Skywalk combo
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