Can/Banff :Columbia Icefield, Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Lake, Tour

If you’re dreaming of the Canadian Rockies’ jaw-dropping vistas, this full-day tour from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff offers a wonderfully accessible way to see some of the most iconic sights. While it’s not a wilderness escape for those looking for secluded adventures, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a taste of the Rockies’ grandeur without the hassle of driving themselves.

Two things we really like about this tour are the variety of stops—from lakes to glaciers—and the knowledgeable guides who make the experience more than just a sightseeing trip. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the Columbia Icefield activities are seasonal and currently unavailable during winter, so you should plan your visit during the warmer months if those are a priority.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing with manageable group sizes, and for those who appreciate insightful commentary and picturesque stops. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of photo opportunities, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at multiple iconic locations such as Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake.
• Expert guides add depth and local insights to the experience.
• Seasonal limitations mean Columbia Icefield activities are temporarily unavailable in winter.
• Value for money with numerous stops and expert narration included in the price.
• Small group sizes (maximum 13 travelers) ensure a more intimate experience.
• Flexible cancelation policy allows full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off early, with pick-up times around 8:00 AM in Calgary, 9:30 AM in Canmore, and 9:50 AM in Banff. The drive to the Rockies takes several hours, but don’t worry — the vehicle is air-conditioned and comfortable, making the long haul more pleasant. The total duration of about 10 hours includes travel time, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

Lake Louise: A Must-See

Your first stop is Lake Louise, one of the most photographed spots in the Rockies. Its vivid turquoise waters surround the historic Fairmont Chateau and are framed by snow-capped peaks. We loved the way the light shifts across the lake’s surface, providing endless opportunities for photos. The stop is just 30 minutes, so it’s enough to soak in the views, snap a few pictures, and maybe enjoy a quick stroll.

Peyto Lake Trail: The Wolf-Shaped Viewpoint

Next, the tour visits Peyto Lake, famous for its wolf-shaped outline and intense blue color. The viewpoint here offers a stunning panorama that’s worth a 45-minute stop. The vibrant hues are caused by glacial melt, and the panoramic view makes this one of the most visually striking stops. Visitors often comment in reviews about how the view surpasses expectations, with one saying, “You’ll love the views and the photo opportunities here.”

Crowfoot Glacier: A Glacial Marvel

Afterward, the group heads to Crowfoot Glacier, which is known for its unique, multi-branch shape resembling a crow’s foot. The glacier’s constantly changing face makes it a fascinating sight, especially since glaciers are slowly receding. The stop is brief—around 10 minutes—but the view is well worth it. Travelers describe it as “an incredible sight,” and guides often share interesting facts about glacial changes over time.

The Columbia Icefield: Seasonally Closed

The Columbia Icefield is arguably the highlight for many visitors, but it’s important to note that activities like the Ice Explorer ride and the Skywalk are not included in this winter tour as they close from October 15 until May 2, and activities reopen from May 3, 2025. If you visit during the season when activities are available, you’ll have about two hours at the Discovery Centre, where you can learn about the glaciers and explore the area. Currently, during winter, you’ll only get to see the Icefield from a distance.

Columbia Icefield Skywalk: An Adrenaline-Pumping View

The Skywalk extends over the Sunwapta Valley on a glass-floored walkway. If open, it offers jaw-dropping views and a thrill to walk out over the edge. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking and memorable this experience is, especially if you’re comfortable with heights. Unfortunately, during winter, this is also not available, but the stunning vistas from the surrounding viewpoints still impress.

Bow Lake and Waterfowl Lake Viewpoints

The tour then moves along the Icefields Parkway to Bow Lake, known for its vivid meltwater and stunning reflections. It’s a prime spot for photos, especially with the backdrop of Crowfoot Glacier. The stop is about 30 minutes and provides a chance to stretch your legs and snap some shots.

Next, the group visits Waterfowl Lake, another beautifully reflective mountain lake. These stops are particularly popular for landscape photos and give a sense of the vastness of the Rockies.

Tangle Creek Falls: A Photogenic Waterfall

On the way back, Tangle Creek Falls offers a multi-tiered waterfall that’s easy to access and highly photogenic. With about 30 minutes here, travelers can get close to the falls and appreciate the power of nature. Many reviewers comment on how accessible and picturesque this stop is.

Short Stop at Lake Louise

The tour concludes with a quick 30-minute visit to Lake Louise again, allowing last-minute photo opportunities or a brief walk before heading back.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided Expertise and Comfortable Transport

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially Aashish, for their wealth of knowledge and friendly demeanor. One reviewer said, “From the moment we met Aashish, it was clear that we were in good hands,” highlighting how the guide’s insights added depth to the experience. The small group size (max 13) ensures a more personal, less rushed experience, unlike large bus tours.

Scenic Variety

This tour offers a balanced mix of lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls. The variety keeps the day interesting and caters to those who want multiple types of landscapes in a single trip. The stops are well-chosen, each offering unique scenery, from the iconic turquoise lakes to impressive glaciers.

Photo Opportunities

With so many stops, there’s ample chance for stunning landscape photography. Reviewers love the way guides help with capturing the perfect shot, especially at spots like Peyto Lake and Bow Lake.

Seasonal Considerations

The primary limitation is the seasonality of certain activities at the Columbia Icefield. During winter, activities like the Ice Explorer or Skywalk are off-limits, so you should plan accordingly if these experiences are essential for your trip. The tour compensates with additional stops and views that are just as captivating.

Value for Money

At $80.17 per person, this tour packs in multiple world-famous sights, guide commentary, and transportation. While it doesn’t include optional activities like the Ice Explorer or Skywalk, the price reflects the value of seeing many highlights with ease and expert narration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day in the Rockies without the hassle of self-driving. It’s perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and first-time visitors who want a guided overview of the region’s most photogenic spots. If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and want a small-group experience, it’s a strong choice. However, if you’re especially interested in glacier activities or the Skywalk, you’ll need to wait until they’re operational in the warmer months.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the Canadian Rockies, combining scenic stops, expert guiding, and manageable group sizes. We loved the way it balances nature’s grandeur with ease and comfort, making it accessible for most travelers. The stops are carefully selected to maximize visual impact, while the guides’ local knowledge adds richness to the experience.

While the seasonal limitations at the Columbia Icefield are worth considering, the stops at lakes, waterfalls, and glaciers provide enough wow moments to make this a worthwhile choice. The tour’s value is amplified by the friendly guides and the intimate group setting, making it a relaxing yet inspiring day out.

This experience is best suited for those who want a full, scenic day with plenty of photographable moments, and who appreciate informative guides to bring the landscapes to life. It’s an excellent way to tick off some of the Rockies’ most famous sights without the stress of organizing transportation or multiple trips.

FAQ

Are the Columbia Icefield activities included in the price?
No, the Icefield activities such as the Ice Explorer and Skywalk are not included in this tour’s price. They are seasonal and require an additional CA$120 fee per person, and are only available from May 3, 2025, onward.

What happens if I book during winter?
During winter, activities like the Skywalk and Ice Explorer are closed. The tour will focus on sightseeing at viewpoints and accessible areas, such as Johnston Canyon. The scenic views are still impressive, but some seasonal highlights won’t be available.

How long are the stops at each location?
Stops range from about 10 to 45 minutes, depending on the site. This generally provides enough time for photos, quick walks, and soaking in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. There are many photo opportunities at each stop, especially Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and Waterfowl Lake. Guides are often helpful in capturing the perfect shot.

How many people are on this tour?
The maximum group size is 13 travelers, making for a more personal experience. This smaller size often results in a more relaxed atmosphere and better interaction with the guide.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, especially layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Don’t forget your camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water. Lunch is not included, so plan to buy at the Columbia Icefield or bring your own.

This tour offers a solid, scenic overview of some of the Canadian Rockies’ most beautiful spots, delivered with knowledgeable guides and in a comfortable setting. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of memorable vistas—without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.