Travelers seeking a memorable adventure in the Canadian Rockies often dream of walking on glaciers. The Columbia Icefield Guided Glacier Hike, offered by Icewalks, is an experience that turns that dream into reality. With a solid rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 65 reviews, this tour promises a safe, informative, and awe-inspiring trek onto the Athabasca Glacier, one of the most iconic glacial areas in North America.
What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the chance to explore deep crevasses and see the meltwater streams pouring over the ice is a rare privilege. Plus, the guides are ACMG-certified, meaning you’re in expert hands. However, a potential consideration is that the tour operates at an elevation of 2000 meters, which might cause shortness of breath for some. This adventure suits those with a love for active outdoor experiences who want an authentic, close-up look at a glacier and learn about its importance to the landscape and climate.
If you’re comfortable with moderate hiking and eager to see one of the Rockies’ most stunning natural features, this guided glacier walk is a fantastic choice. It combines physical activity with education and extraordinary views, making it ideal for adventurous families, active seniors, and anyone curious about the science of glaciers.
Key Points
- All-inclusive gear: Micro-spikes, rain gear, hiking poles, gloves, and boots are provided, making it easier to enjoy the hike comfortably.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable, passionate guides will lead you safely across the glacier and share fascinating insights.
- Spectacular scenery: You’ll witness icefalls, crevasses, meltwater streams, and get postcard-worthy views of the Rockies’ highest peaks.
- Moderate difficulty: Suitable for children aged 7 and up, active seniors, and fit travelers, but not for those with mobility issues or certain health concerns.
- Flexible booking: Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Value for money: For $96 per person, you’ll get a 3-hour guided experience that’s packed with learning and stunning sights.
This tour is designed for those curious about glaciers but not necessarily experienced mountaineers. It begins with a short shuttle from the meeting point to the trailhead, located just a quick drive from the Icefield Information Centre. From there, you’ll walk about 5 km roundtrip, with around 200 meters of elevation gain. The distance and difficulty make it accessible to most reasonably fit people, including children over 7 and seniors who are active.
You can check availability for your dates here:What’s Included and What to Bring
Your ticket covers a guides, micro-spikes (crampons), rain gear, hiking poles, hiking boots, gloves, and hats if needed. When you arrive, this equipment means you can focus on the experience rather than fussing with gear or worrying about staying warm and safe. There’s no need to bring your own boots or crampons, which adds great convenience especially if you’re traveling light.
However, you’ll want to bring warm layers, such as thermal underwear or sweaters, especially if the weather turns chilly or if you’re prone to cold. Snacks and drinks are also handy to keep energy levels up during the walk. Do note that transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
You can also read our reviews of more guided tours in Banff National Park
The Trail and Highlights
Once at the trailhead, the adventure begins. You’ll walk onto the Athabasca Glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield, one of the most accessible and studied glaciers in North America. The guided route takes you past icefalls, where the glacier’s massive ice blocks have steepened crevasses, and into areas with mill wells—deep water-filled ice formations that are both fascinating and photogenic.
The guides are expert storytellers and scientists, so you’ll learn about how glaciers form, their role in the environment, and the impacts of climate change. As one reviewer fondly recalled, their guide Pete was “fun and passionate,” making the science engaging and accessible.
You will get close enough to peer into deep crevasses and observe meltwater streams, which are constantly reshaping the glacier’s surface. Witnessing meltwater cascading over the edge or flowing beneath the ice adds a dynamic aspect to the experience, emphasizing the glacier’s ongoing transformation.
The Scenic Surroundings
The views on this tour are nothing short of breathtaking. You’ll stand amidst a sea of ice with panoramic vistas of rugged peaks, some of the highest in the Rockies. The contrast of the icy blue ice against the rocky, snow-capped mountain backdrop offers endlessly stunning photography opportunities.
One aspect that many reviewers appreciated was the chance to see the glacier in its natural state, away from tourist buses and crowded viewpoints. As one guest put it, “This was a day I won’t forget,” highlighting how immersive and authentic the experience feels compared to more commercialized options.
The Guides and Their Impact
Multiple reviews praised the guides for their knowledge, patience, and personality. Troy was highlighted for being extremely knowledgeable and friendly, while Corin was appreciated for her extra care and attentiveness. They make the difference between a good tour and a memorable one, offering not just safety but also engaging storytelling and personalized attention.
More Great Tours NearbyDuration and Group Size
The tour lasts about 3 hours, including transportation to the trailhead. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing guides to give individual attention and ensure everyone feels comfortable on the glacier. The moderate difficulty means you won’t be exerting yourself for hours but will still need to be active and cautious on uneven, icy terrain.
For $96 per person, this guided hike offers remarkable value, especially considering the inclusivity of equipment and expert guiding. It’s a relatively affordable way to access a glacier up close, which is often a bucket-list item for many travelers.
Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.
While the tour operates at a high altitude of 2000 meters, most participants find the elevation manageable, though some may experience brief shortness of breath. It’s not suited for those with mobility issues or significant medical concerns, as the terrain can be uneven and physically demanding.
You can also read our reviews of more hiking tours in Banff National Park
Meeting Point and Logistics
The meeting point is straightforward: look for the Icefield Information Centre parking lot, marked by a black trailer and white vans with the IceWalks logo. Remember, you should avoid parking at the Glacier View Hotel or entering the building—just head straight to the designated area. Transportation from this meeting point to the trailhead is included, simplifying logistics.
This glacier walk provides more than just a walk on ice. It’s a chance to connect with one of Earth’s most vital and changing landscapes, learn about how glaciers shape the environment, and see stunning mountain scenery. The guides’ knowledge and passion transform what could be a simple hike into a memorable educational experience.
For families with active kids, the manageable difficulty and engaging storytelling make it perfect. For adventurous seniors who are used to walking and enjoy scenic outings, it offers a safe, rewarding day out. Nature lovers eager for a close-up view of glaciers will find this tour highly satisfying.
While some might find the elevation a minor challenge, the overall accessibility and value make it a worthwhile adventure for most active travelers. The inclusion of all necessary gear and the high safety standards further enhance its appeal, removing common barriers to glacier exploration.
The Columbia Icefield Guided Glacier Hike stands as an excellent way to see one of the Rockies’ most iconic glaciers without requiring technical skills or heavy equipment. Its combination of enthusiastic guides, fantastic scenery, and educational value makes it a must-do activity for anyone wanting an authentic glacier experience in Canada.
The reasonable price point, flexible booking, and inclusive gear mean you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck. Plus, the stories and insights from guides like Pete, Troy, and Corin elevate the experience from a simple walk to a memorable adventure.
This tour is ideal for families, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone with a sense of adventure. If you’re looking for a safe, engaging, and visually stunning activity that brings you face-to-face with one of the world’s most fascinating landscapes, this guided glacier hike is worth every penny.
Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s suitable for children aged 7 and up, as long as they are active and enjoy hiking. The moderate difficulty makes it accessible for young adventurers.
What should I wear? It’s best to bring warm layers like thermal clothing, even if it’s sunny. The provided gear includes gloves, hats, and rain gear, but layering your own moisture-wicking and insulating clothes is recommended.
Do I need technical climbing experience? No, no technical skills are needed. The terrain is icy but manageable with the provided crampons and guidance.
How long is the hike? The walk on the glacier is about 5 km roundtrip, with a 200-meter elevation gain, taking roughly 3 hours including transportation and gear preparation.
What are the main features I’ll see? Expect to see crevasses, meltwater streams, icefalls, and deep ice formations. The views of the surrounding peaks are spectacular.
Is the tour physically demanding? It’s of moderate difficulty, suitable for most reasonably fit people, but not recommended for those with mobility issues or serious health problems.
What is included in the price? The guide, micro-spikes, rain gear, hiking poles, boots, gloves, and hats are included, adding convenience and safety.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with no penalties.
Where do I meet the tour? At the Icefield Information Centre parking lot, marked by a black trailer and white vans with the IceWalks logo.
Is transportation to the meeting point included? Yes, transport from the meeting location to the trailhead is included in the tour.
In short, if you’ve ever wanted to stand on a glacier, learn about its importance, and enjoy some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Canada, this guided hike offers a safe, well-organized, and deeply memorable way to do so.
You can check availability for your dates here: