Full Day Guided Glacier Hike on The Athabasca with IceWalks

If you’re dreaming of walking on ice and seeing the iconic Athabasca Glacier up close, this guided tour with IceWalks offers an appealing way to do just that. While we haven’t personally strapped on crampons and hit the ice, we’ve gathered enough traveler insights and tour details to give you a clear picture of what you can expect. This is a route designed for those who crave authentic, hands-on experiences in the Canadian Rockies, with an emphasis on natural beauty and expert guidance.

Two features we particularly admire? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring the glacier’s features to life, and second, the stunning vistas of icefalls and crevasses that make the long walk worthwhile. One thing to consider is that this is a full-day commitment, lasting around 6 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness and plenty of energy. If you’re eager to fully explore and learn about glaciers, and don’t mind a bit of walking, this trip is a stellar choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Glacier Experience: Stand on a real glacier and see fascinating ice formations firsthand.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, certified, and passionate about sharing the glacier’s story.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking photo opportunities of icefalls, crevasses, and meltwater streams.
• Educational Value: Learn about glacier natural history and conservation efforts from your guide.
• Moderate Physical Effort: The walk is manageable for most with good mobility, but involves a 10 km roundtrip hike.
• All-Inclusive Gear: Crampons, rain gear, and extra layers are provided, minimizing what you need to bring.

An Engaging Overview of the Tour

The Full Day Guided Glacier Hike with IceWalks is a comprehensive way to encounter one of Jasper’s most iconic sights. Starting in the early morning, you’ll meet your ACMG-certified guide at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. From there, a short shuttle will take you to the trailhead, marking the start of your journey onto the Athabasca Glacier—a massive, ancient river of ice stretching for over six kilometers.

This tour is designed to be about 6 hours long—giving plenty of time to explore, learn, and enjoy. The walk itself covers around 10 km, weaving through crevasses, icefalls, meltwater streams, and mill wells. These features aren’t just scenic—they’re windows into the glacier’s ongoing natural processes and history.

The guides are the real stars here. They bring their expertise and friendliness to every step, making complex glacial features accessible and interesting. As one reviewer noted, guides like Troy and Nick are “super knowledgeable,” providing insights that transform a simple walk into a captivating lesson in glaciology. They also provide safety equipment like crampons and micro-spikes, which are crucial for grip on the icy terrain, especially as the glacier can be slick and unpredictable.

The Itinerary in Detail

Meeting at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre

Your day begins at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre parking lot, where guides will meet you and help you gear up. The fact that gear including crampons and micro-spikes is provided is a real bonus, especially for those who aren’t used to walking on ice or don’t want to haul their own equipment. If you have your own rain gear, hiking boots, gloves, and hat, you’re encouraged to bring them, but the provided gear ensures safety and comfort.

Shuttle to the Trailhead and the Hike Begins

The shuttle is a short ride to the trailhead, where your adventure truly begins. The 10 km roundtrip trek takes you to the icefalls at the head of the Athabasca Glacier, where you’ll have the chance to eat your lunch (bring your own) against a backdrop of fractured ice, blue crevasses, and rugged rock. This will likely be the most memorable part of your day—sitting on ice and rock, surrounded by the raw power of nature.

Exploring Ice Features

During the hike, you will see crevasses—deep, jagged cracks in the ice—mill wells (waterfalls plunging into the depths), meltwater streams, and icefalls. These features are more than just beautiful—they’re a living record of the glacier’s health and history. Several reviews comment on how fascinating it is to see these features up close, with one saying, “You see all the glacier structures, and it’s absolutely incredible.”

Learning and Photography Opportunities

Your guide will share details about the glacier’s natural history and ongoing conservation efforts. The opportunity to learn from experts who are passionate about glaciers adds immense value, turning a simple walk into an educational experience. Expect plenty of chances to take photos—especially of the bright blue ice and dramatic ice formations—as well as to enjoy the tranquility of such an untouched environment.

The Logistics: What to Expect

The tour departs at 10:15 am, and the meeting point is easy to find. It’s a small group limited to 12 travelers, which enhances the personalized experience. The entire day is about 6 hours, including travel, gearing up, hiking, and return.

The cost of $154.23 per person offers good value compared to many other glacier activities, especially considering the included gear, expert guides, and the chance to walk on a real glacier—features that are often priced higher in other destinations. The reviews repeatedly praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery as worth every penny.

Weather and Cancellations

The tour is weather dependent, but the provider offers a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. In case of poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund, making this a fairly flexible option for travelers.

Authentic Observations from Travelers

Many reviewers mention that the guides elevate the experience. “Nick shows you all the glacier structures,” said one. Others highlight the spectacular views—“The glacier wall at the end of the hike,” describes one—emphasizing the awe-inspiring scale of the ice and landscape.

Several travelers appreciated that the hike is not overly strenuous, with one noting it’s “a very moderate hike,” suitable even for those with average fitness. However, a few mention it involves a good amount of walking uphill, so some physical fitness is recommended.

One recurring theme is the short-lived nature of glaciers. Many emphasize the importance of seeing the Athabasca Glacier now, as it’s melting—”in 40-50 years, glaciers may not be accessible like this,” one reviewer pointed out.

Why Choose This Tour?

This full-day glacier hike is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, hands-on experience in the Canadian Rockies. If you’re interested in learning about glaciers from passionate guides, want to capture incredible photos, or simply desire a memorable adventure that combines nature, education, and physical activity, this tour hits the spot.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy moderate hikes and are comfortable with a full day outdoors. If you’re traveling with family, the tour’s small group size and manageable pace make it accessible for teens and adults alike. Plus, the all-inclusive gear removes the hassle of equipment rental, adding to the overall value.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For anyone eager to see a glacier up close and understand its importance, this tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery. The expert guides help demystify the glacier’s marvels, making the experience accessible and engaging for travelers with all levels of prior knowledge. The stunning ice formations and the chance to wander on a genuine glacier make it a memorable highlight of any Jasper visit.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the value is clear: you get to walk on a glacier, learn about its current state, and enjoy spectacular views—all with safety and comfort in mind. This tour is a fantastic choice for curious travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those wanting a meaningful adventure before glaciers potentially disappear.

FAQ

How long is the glacier hike?
The hike is approximately 6 hours in total, covering a 10 km roundtrip walk to the icefalls and back.

What gear is provided?
Micro-spikes (crampons), rain gear, and extra layers are included. Travelers should bring their own warm clothing, hiking boots, gloves, and hat if preferred.

Is the walk difficult?
The walk is described as moderate and manageable for most with moderate physical fitness, but involves some uphill walking and snow or ice terrain.

What time does the tour start?
It departs at 10:15 am from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre parking lot.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be given an alternative date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
Most reviews mention that the hike is accessible for teens, children, and adults with moderate fitness levels, but always check your group’s comfort with outdoor activities.

Is lunch included?
No, you need to bring your own lunch to enjoy at the glacier’s icefalls during the hike.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of expert guides, stunning scenery, and an immersive glacier experience set this tour apart from shorter or less guided options.

How does the value compare?
At about $154, the tour’s price includes gear, guide expertise, and a full day’s adventure—making it a good value for an authentic glacier experience.

This guided glacier hike offers a rare chance to get up close with one of nature’s most impressive ice features. If you’re ready for a full day of adventure, learning, and stunning vistas, this tour in Jasper could be just the highlight you’re looking for.