Jasper: Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer Ticket

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer tour offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the breathtaking Athabasca Glacier. With a guided expedition aboard the specialized Ice Explorer vehicle, visitors can traverse the ancient glacier and even taste its fresh, glacial water. But the adventure doesn’t end there – the glass-bottomed Skywalk, suspended high above the Sunwapta Valley, provides a unique vantage point to take in the surrounding natural wonders. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this tour promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Key Points

• The Jasper tour package includes access to the Athabasca Glacier via the Ice Explorer vehicle and the glass-bottomed Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
• Visitors can explore the 25,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier, taste the fresh glacier water, and learn about the glacier’s formation and retreat.
• The tour provides live English commentary on the Ice Explorer and a multilingual audio guide on the Skywalk for informative insights.
• Visitors should bring warm clothing, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning glacial landscape.
• The tour can be reached by driving and parking at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, taking a shuttle from nearby towns, or joining a tour with round-trip transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

About the Experience

Visitors embark on a guided tour aboard the giant Ice Explorer vehicle, traversing the 25,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier and enjoying the opportunity to step out and taste the glacier’s fresh water.

They’ll also experience the thrilling glass-bottomed Columbia Icefield Skywalk, suspended 918 feet above the Sunwapta Valley. The live English commentary on the Ice Explorer and the multilingual audio guide on the Skywalk provide informative insights.

With comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera, visitors can fully enjoy this unique, budget-friendly glacier adventure.

However, visitors should be mindful of the unpredictable weather and plan their trip accordingly, as the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled due to inclement conditions.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes a guided excursion on the expansive Ice Explorer vehicle to traverse the Athabasca Glacier, along with entry to the glass-bottomed Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

You’ll enjoy live English commentary on the Ice Explorer and a multilingual audio guide on the Skywalk.

Shuttle transportation to and from the glacier and the Skywalk is provided from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center.

With this comprehensive package, you can savor the glacier’s 25,000-year-old ice, gaze down at the dramatic Sunwapta Valley from the Skywalk’s glass floor, and make the most of your time in Jasper’s stunning alpine landscape.

What to Bring

When visiting the Columbia Icefield, be sure to pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera to capture the stunning glacial landscape. Don’t forget sunscreen and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.

Your passport or ID card is needed to gain entry.

Bring layers like hats, gloves, and jackets to protect against unpredictable weather.

A small backpack or daypack is useful to carry your items.

Snacks or a light meal are recommended, as the tour doesn’t include food.

Packing wisely will ensure you’re prepared to fully enjoy the incredible experience of walking on the Athabasca Glacier and taking in the breathtaking views from the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

Important Information

Despite the popularity of the attraction, visitors may consider an afternoon visit to avoid potential crowds. Tour schedules can be subject to change or cancellation due to inclement weather.

Guests can expect to spend around 20 minutes on the glacier and additional time at the Skywalk. While washroom facilities are available at the Discovery Center, they aren’t accessible during the tour itself.

Audio guide devices may not be provided in rainy conditions, so guests should be prepared with warm layers as the weather on the glacier can be unpredictable.

Although the experience may be impacted by external factors, the opportunity to walk on the ancient Athabasca Glacier and take in the breathtaking views from the Skywalk makes this a must-do activity in Jasper.

More Great Tours Nearby

Getting to the Meeting Point

Visitors must make their own way to the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre at AB-93, Jasper, AB T1L 1J3, Canada, which serves as the meeting point for the guided tour.

From there, you’ll board the shuttle to access the Athabasca Glacier and Skywalk.

Getting to the meeting point offers several options:

• Drive yourself and park at the Discovery Centre
• Take a shuttle or transfer from nearby Jasper or other towns
• Join a tour that includes round-trip transportation
• Arrange for a private transfer to the meeting location

Regardless of how you get there, be sure to arrive on time to ensure you don’t miss the start of this unforgettable glacier experience.

Arriving at the Discovery Center

Upon arrival at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, guests can conveniently park their vehicles on-site to begin their glacier adventure.

The Discovery Centre serves as the meeting point for the guided tour, where visitors will board the shuttle to access the Athabasca Glacier and Skywalk.

Inside the centre, guests can prepare for their excursion by purchasing any last-minute essentials, use the restrooms, and explore the informative exhibits about the nearby glaciers and mountain landscapes.

The centralized location of the Discovery Centre makes it an efficient starting point for the tour, allowing seamless transitions between the different activities.

With everything available in one place, guests can look forward to a hassle-free and memorable experience exploring the magnificent Columbia Icefield.

Exploring the Athabasca Glacier

Departing the Discovery Center, guests board the massive Ice Explorer vehicle, a specialized all-terrain bus designed to navigate the rugged terrain of the Athabasca Glacier.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, the Ice Explorer slowly makes its way across the ancient, undulating ice, offering an up-close encounter with this breathtaking natural wonder.

Once on the glacier, visitors can:

• Walk on the 25,000-year-old ice and taste the pure, glacial water
• Admire the stunning vistas and learn about the glacier’s formation and retreat
• Snap unforgettable photos to capture the grandeur of this icy landscape
• Savor the unique experience of standing amidst one of the world’s most iconic glaciers.

Experiencing the Skywalk

After exploring the Athabasca Glacier, guests can then experience the breathtaking Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform suspended 918 feet (279 meters) above the Sunwapta Valley.

The skywalk provides visitors with a unique opportunity to walk along the glass-bottomed bridge and take in the stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains.

With a multilingual audio guide available, guests can learn about the geology and natural history of the area as they take in the impressive panoramic vistas.

The skywalk is an unforgettable addition to the glacier experience, allowing visitors to gain a new perspective on the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take My Pet on the Ice Explorer Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the Ice Explorer tour. The tour is primarily for human guests to experience the Athabasca Glacier safely, and bringing pets would not be feasible or appropriate for this type of outdoor adventure.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Skywalk?

There’s no minimum age for the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, though children under 16 must be supervised. The glass-bottomed platform is 918 feet above the Sunwapta Valley, so caution is advised for young children.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, there are discounts available for students and seniors. Students with valid ID can get a discounted ticket, while seniors 65+ may be eligible for a reduced fare. It’s best to check the operator’s website for the latest pricing details.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. However, there are limited facilities for storing or consuming them during the tour, so it’s best to bring only what you’ll need. Staying hydrated and fueled is important when exploring the glacier.

Is Photography Allowed on the Athabasca Glacier?

Yes, photography is allowed on the Athabasca Glacier. Visitors can take photos during the guided tour on the Ice Explorer vehicle and while walking on the glacier. However, it’s important to follow any instructions from the tour guides to ensure safety.

Recap

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer tour in Jasper offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning Athabasca Glacier.

Visitors can explore the glacier, taste its fresh water, and enjoy breathtaking views from the glass-bottomed Skywalk.

The tour is informative and immersive, with live commentary and multilingual audio guides, providing an unforgettable adventure in the Canadian Rockies.

You can check availability for your dates here: