If you’re dreaming of sweeping mountain vistas, glacial adventures, and iconic lakes, this guided tour from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff promises a comprehensive taste of the Canadian Rockies. We haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, but based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it’s clear that this adventure offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that appeals to nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

Two aspects stand out: the chance to walk on the Athabasca Glacier with a specially designed vehicle, and the breathtaking views from the Glass Skywalk suspended above Sunwapta Valley. These are genuinely memorable highlights that make the day feel special.

However, it’s worth noting that the Columbia Icefield Adventure and Skywalk are closed from October 13 to May 13, which could affect winter travelers. Also, the tour involves quite a bit of driving—over 11 hours—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days and moderate walking. This tour is perfect if you’re after an authentic, scenic, and personalized exploration of the Rockies with a knowledgeable guide, and if you enjoy small-group settings for a more relaxed experience.

Contents hide

1 The Scenic Drive on the Icefields Parkway

2 The Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier

3 The Glass Skywalk

4 Johnston Canyon and Waterfalls

5 End of Day and Return

6 Who Would Love This Tour?

Key Points

Stunning scenery throughout along the famous Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic highways.
Close-up glacier experience walking on the Athabasca Glacier in a specially equipped vehicle.
Unique vantage points at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Waterfowl Lakes, perfect for photos.
The Glass Skywalk offers dramatic views and a thrilling walk suspended over the Sunwapta Valley.
Small-group format (limited to 14 people) provides personalized attention and better wildlife spotting.
Flexible itinerary with options for pickup from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff.

The tour begins early, with pickups from Calgary’s Delta Hotels, Canmore Inn & Suites, or Banff’s Moose Hotel & Suites, ensuring you’re comfortably on your way without the hassle of self-driving. The vehicles are described as comfortable, ideal for a full day of sightseeing and travel.

Once underway, the guide’s storytelling turns the scenic drive into an engaging history lesson and insider perspective on the region, making the long travel time feel like part of the adventure rather than a chore.

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The Scenic Drive on the Icefields Parkway

Traveling along the Icefields Parkway, you’ll get to experience one of the most stunning drives in the world. Expect stops at vital viewpoints like Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, and Waterfowl Lakes—each offering postcard-perfect scenes. Many reviews emphasize how these stops serve as ideal spots for photographs, so bring your camera and prepare for awe.

Regarding Crowfoot Glacier, travelers often mention how it’s a visually striking formation, with its enormous ice wall contrasting against the rocky surroundings. Peyto Lake, with its wolf-shaped turquoise waters, is frequently praised for its surreal beauty and panoramic views.

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The Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier

Once at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, the highlight is walking on the Athabasca Glacier—a truly cool (pun intended) experience. A specially designed Glacier Explorer vehicle takes you onto the ancient ice, providing a safe but up-close encounter with this natural marvel. Travelers describe this as a “once-in-a-lifetime” moment that’s both exhilarating and educational.

Given the importance of this part of the tour, it’s worth noting that tickets for the glacier walk are not included. You can purchase them online or through the tour provider, which allows you to choose a time slot that fits your schedule.

The Glass Skywalk

The Skywalk is the tour’s most visually striking feature. Suspended 280 meters above Sunwapta Valley, it offers a 360-degree view of rugged peaks and sprawling valleys. The experience is described as “breathtaking,” with some noting it’s not for anyone afraid of heights.

A guided walk on the Skywalk provides insights into the geology and history of the area. The views are panoramic, and many reviewers mention the sense of walking on glass as both thrilling and a tad unsettling—perfect for those who appreciate a dash of adrenaline with their scenery.

Note that the Skywalk is closed from October 13 to May 13, so winter travelers will find this part unavailable during those months.

Johnston Canyon and Waterfalls

After the glacier and Skywalk, the tour includes visits to Johnston Canyon—a favorite for its series of waterfalls and ledgewalks. In summer, the canyon’s lower and upper falls are lush and mighty; in winter, they remain impressive, often framed by snow and ice.

The canyon’s trails are well-maintained but involve walking on uneven surfaces, so good footwear is recommended. Reviews often mention how accessible and awe-inspiring Johnston Canyon is, especially when the water roars beneath you.

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End of Day and Return

As the tour winds down, you’ll head back through the mountains, soaking in the last vistas. The comfortable return journey lets you reflect on a full day of remarkable sights, with the guide sharing stories and answering any lingering questions.

The tour concludes with drop-offs at Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, making your day seamless and convenient.

For travelers who love visuals and feel comfortable with long days of sightseeing, this tour offers a solid value. The small-group size guarantees a more intimate experience, often praised for the personalized storytelling and better wildlife-spotting chances.

While the price isn’t explicitly mentioned, reviews suggest that the value comes from the variety of stops and the quality of guides. Seeing glaciers up close, walking on glass above a canyon, and stopping at iconic lakes makes this a well-rounded, high-impact day.

The tour’s highlights—glacial walks, scenic viewpoints, and the Skywalk—are genuinely memorable and often described as “breathtaking” by past travelers. The knowledgeable guides add a layer of authenticity, sharing regional facts and personal anecdotes that enrich the experience.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those with a love for natural beauty, photography, and slightly adventurous activities. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate guided tours that combine scenic drives with active stops, rather than just bus rides.

Given the emphasis on walking, it may not be suitable for guests with mobility issues or those wary of heights. The early start and long hours also mean it’s better for those with good stamina and patience for a full day on the road.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, adventure, and education—perfect for those wanting a comprehensive taste of the Canadian Rockies. The combination of glacier walking, panoramic vistas, and a glass bridge walk makes it memorable, especially when guided by knowledgeable locals who can point out the small details that make each stop special.

The small-group format helps keep the experience relaxed and personalized. If you’re after an authentic, scenic day with some thrill and lots of photo opportunities, this trip is a strong choice. Just keep in mind the seasonal closures and plan accordingly if visiting in winter.

Is the Columbia Icefield Adventure included in the tour price?
No, tickets for the Glacier Explorer walk are not included but can be purchased separately online in advance for a specific time slot.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire tour lasts approximately 11.5 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, pickups are available from Calgary, Canmore, and Banff, with specific times and locations listed. Larger groups can request additional pickup options.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking on uneven surfaces and heights, as mobility restrictions are not accommodated.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. Dress in layers, as weather can change quickly.

Can I visit during winter?
Yes, but note that the Columbia Icefield Adventure and Skywalk are closed from October 13 to May 13. In winter, the tour will include Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon instead.

How many people are in the small group?
Limited to 14 participants, which helps provide a more relaxed, personalized experience.

What is the best time to see Peyto Lake?
The tour visits Peyto Lake for about 50 minutes, so it’s an ideal time for photos, especially in clear weather when the turquoise color is most vibrant.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included; you can plan to bring snacks or purchase food at stops like the Columbia Icefield Centre.

Is this tour suitable for wildlife viewing?
Yes, the small group size and scenic stops improve chances of spotting local wildlife, a feature often praised by travelers.

Whether you’re a first-timer to the Rockies or looking to deepen your appreciation for this stunning region, this guided tour offers a memorable, well-rounded experience. With its emphasis on authentic views, expert guiding, and scenic highlights, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to see the best of Alberta’s mountains and glaciers in one day.