Calgary: Columbia Icefield Adventure, Skywalk and Peyto Lake Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing some of the most iconic sights in the Canadian Rockies without the hassle of planning each stop yourself, this guided full-day tour from Calgary offers a compelling option. For around $89, you get a well-balanced mix of nature, geology, and awe-inspiring views, all packed into a roughly 10-11 hour journey.

What we love about this experience is how it combines breathtaking scenery with insightful guides and flexibility in exploring multiple highlights. Plus, the chance to walk on a glacier and stand on a glass skywalk makes this a memorable adventure. The main drawback? It’s a long day that requires an early start, and some attractions (like the Ice Explorer and Skywalk) are additional costs paid on-site.

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Banff and Jasper’s highlights, especially if you prefer guided tours that handle the logistics and provide expert commentary. It’s perfect for those who are short on time but want to see the best of the Rockies in one go.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Covers multiple iconic sites including glacier adventures, lakes, and scenic viewpoints.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the journey with facts about geology, wildlife, and environmental changes.
• Flexible Stops: Short but meaningful stops at Herbert Lake, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and more offer great photo opportunities and peaceful moments.
• Additional Costs: Entry to Columbia Icefield Glacier and Skywalk are paid separately, so budget accordingly.
• Long but Worthwhile: The tour is lengthy, but reviews consistently highlight the stunning scenery making it time well spent.
• Ideal for Nature Enthusiasts: Perfect for those eager to see glaciers, lakes, and rugged mountain scenery with minimal fuss.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Catching the Morning Pickup

Most travelers meet their guide early in Calgary — around 7:30 AM at the Delta Hotels or by 9:00 AM at other locations in Canmore or Banff. The journey begins with anticipation, and you’ll want to be ready ahead of time. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a relief after a long drive, and it’s shared with a small group of up to 14 people, making it intimate enough to chat but small enough to avoid a crowded bus.

Stop 1: Herbert Lake – Quiet Beauty and Reflection

The first stop is Herbert Lake, about 15-20 minutes from the start. It’s a perfect introduction to the Rockies, with postcard-worthy views of towering peaks reflected in calm waters. We loved the way this stop felt like discovering a secret spot—less crowded than Banff’s main lakes and ideal for quiet photos and a leisurely walk. Guides often share interesting facts about the natural and geological significance of the area, adding depth to the experience.

According to reviews, this peaceful lake is especially stunning in the morning when the water is mirror-like, and the surrounding mountains are sharply defined.

Stop 2: Crowfoot Glacier – Nature’s Power

A quick roadside stop offers sweeping views of the Crowfoot Glacier, which gets its name from its three-pronged shape resembling a crow’s foot. This glacier, like many others, is retreating due to climate change, but it’s still a striking sight. Your guide will explain its formation and ongoing changes, offering important insights into environmental shifts.

Visitors consistently comment on how panoramic the views are, with Bow Lake shimmering below. It’s a classic Rockies scene—impressive without requiring any strenuous hiking.

Stop 3: Bow Lake – A Mountain Jewel

Next, we arrive at Bow Lake, a favorite for many. Surrounded by rugged mountains and fed by the Bow Glacier, the lake’s brilliant turquoise waters seem almost unreal. Walking along the shoreline, you can soak in the crisp mountain air, snap a few photos, and listen to engaging commentary from your guide about the lake’s glacial origins and local wildlife.

Reviews highlight Bow Lake as a place to breathe deeply and connect with untouched wilderness. It’s a serene, awe-inspiring moment in the day.

Stop 4: Peyto Lake – One of Canada’s Most Photographed Spots

Peyto Lake is arguably the tour’s showstopper, famous for its wolf-like shape and vivid color. You’ll hike a short distance to a lookout that offers panoramic views of the glacier-fed lake and surrounding peaks. The sight is jaw-dropping, and the natural color—an intense, bright blue—is a result of glacial silt suspended in the water.

Guides share insights into the geology that creates this unique landscape. Several reviewers emphasize that Peyto Lake’s viewpoint is worth the steep walk, and many find it one of the most memorable moments of their trip.

Stop 5: Peyto Glacier and the Icefield’s Role

From the viewpoint, you’ll see the Peyto Glacier high above. Though not accessible for up-close exploration, this glacier helps feed the lake and illustrates the immense scale of glacial ice in the region. Guides explain how glaciers shape the landscape and discuss climate impacts, adding an educational component that many travelers appreciate.

Stop 6: Waterfowl Lakes – Calm, Less Crowded

A brief stop at Waterfowl Lakes offers another peaceful moment. Surrounded by towering peaks, the lakes’ reflective, emerald-green waters provide a perfect photo backdrop. This less crowded site is ideal for a quick walk, a few more photos, or just enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure – Walking on Ancient Ice

The highlight for many is the Glacier Adventure. You’ll board a specially designed Ice Explorer to cross onto the Athabasca Glacier, one of the most accessible and famous glaciers in North America. Standing on the ice, you’ll feel the crunch underfoot and breathe in the crisp, pure air while your guide shares fascinating facts about the glacier’s history and ongoing melting.

Reviews consistently praise this part of the tour, with many describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. Keep in mind, the Icefield Adventure costs extra and can be paid for directly at the site.

Columbia Icefield Skywalk – Walking on Air

Just a few minutes from the glacier, the Skywalk is a glass-floored platform that extends 918 feet over the Sunwapta Valley. Standing there, you’re treated to panoramic views of glaciers, waterfalls, and rugged peaks. Several reviews mention how exhilarating it is to walk on the glass, with some noting it’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the dramatic landscape.

Entry to the Skywalk is an extra cost paid at the gate, but many feel it’s a memorable addition to the day.

The Scenic Drive Along Icefields Parkway

The entire journey runs along the Icefields Parkway, often called one of the most beautiful drives on Earth. Between stops, your guide points out wildlife (bears, elk, mountain goats) and shares stories about the region’s geology, history, and Indigenous significance.

The drive itself is an experience, with dramatic mountain vistas, shimmering lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Travel time between major stops is about three hours, but with so many sights, the time flies by.

The Experience and Value

This tour balances stunning scenery with educational commentary, making it suitable for travelers craving a well-rounded Canadian Rockies adventure. While the price covers transportation, bottled water, and entry to the glacier, the skywalk and glacier explorer cost extra—something to keep in mind while budgeting.

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for their friendly, informative approach. The small-group format makes it easier to ask questions and enjoy a more personal experience. Many guests mention how the guides go out of their way to create a flexible, tailored trip—sometimes adjusting the itinerary based on weather or individual preferences.

The stops are designed to maximize photography and peaceful moments, with many reviewers citing Peyto Lake and Bow Lake as highlights. Several mention how the experience far exceeds their expectations, describing it as “beautiful,” “amazing,” or “a trip to remember.”

The tour’s length is a double-edged sword; it’s a long day, but most feel that the scenery and experiences justify it. Some reviewers note that the long drive is tiring, but they agree the scenery and the chance to walk on a glacier make it worthwhile.

Practical Tips

• Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes, especially if you want to walk around at stops like Peyto Lake or Waterfowl Lakes.
• Bring a camera with plenty of storage—these vistas are worth capturing.
• Consider booking the glacier explorer and Skywalk tickets in advance to avoid long lines or missing out.
• Be prepared for the possibility of weather changes; the Rockies can be unpredictable.
• If you’re traveling with kids or seniors, note that the tour involves some walking and standing, but guides are very accommodating.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for photo enthusiasts, geology buffs, and nature lovers wanting a comprehensive look at the Rockies without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. It’s also great for those who appreciate small-group tours and informative guides.

If you’re short on time but want to see the highlights—glaciers, lakes, and scenic viewpoints—this tour offers good value. However, expect a long day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want a deep hike, other options might suit you better.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to see some of the most iconic sights of the Canadian Rockies in one day, this tour provides a balanced, well-organized experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who want expert insights, beautiful photo opportunities, and the thrill of walking on a glacier and the glass Skywalk. The price is reasonable considering the number of stops and experiences, though some attractions require additional fees.

The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, combined with the spectacular scenery, make it a worthwhile choice for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike. It’s a day packed with natural beauty, educational moments, and unforgettable views—sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the rugged splendor of Banff and Jasper.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for the entire day, with pickup from Calgary and other locations. It’s a small-group setting, making it comfortable and personal.

Do I need to pay extra for the glacier or Skywalk?
Yes, entry to the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure and the Skywalk are paid separately at the site. These are optional but highly recommended experiences.

How long is the tour?
The full day lasts approximately 10-11 hours, including travel time between stops. Be prepared for a long but scenic and rewarding day.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The stops involve minimal walking, but some terrain (like Peyto Lake viewpoint) requires a hike or steep walk. It’s best to check with the tour provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 14 travelers, making it intimate enough for questions and personalized attention.

Is this suitable for families or solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention family groups and solo travelers having a great time. The small-group format fosters a friendly environment.

In short, this tour offers a fantastic way to see the highlights of the Canadian Rockies with expert guides, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure—perfect for those eager to make the most of a single day in the mountains.