Glacier Adventure on the Icefields Parkway Hidden Gems Skywalk

Banff , Canada

Glacier Adventure on the Icefields Parkway Hidden Gems Skywalk

Active

(12 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on an unforgettable day exploring the world-renowned Icefields Parkway, often hailed as the most beautiful drive in the world.

Highlights:

Epic Exploration Minus the Crowds: Ditch the big bus tour groups and explore like a local at the highlights of Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Columbia Icefields & more.

Local Secrets & Wildlife Revealed: While the Icefields Parkway has its known jewels, our guides take pride in unveiling lesser-trodden paths and viewpoints to areas where we often see wildlife.

Active & Insightful Adventures: Guided by local experts, you'll embark on relaxed hikes to absorb the best views. Our guides' stories and insights blend the perfect mix of informed touring with free exploration.

Bespoke Itineraries: Daily itineraries are thoughtfully designed around weather conditions, recent wildlife sightings, and ensuring you evade the peak crowd timings. Your wishes matter; if there's a specific spot on your bucket list, let us know!

Available options

Banff & The Icefields Parkway

What's included

Water refills (please BYO water bottle)

Exclusive access to areas with an expert & fun local guide with lots of local secrets to share!

Upscale, modern & spacious transportation with large panoramic windows

Small group guarantee (Max 12 guests)

Onboard cooler to keep drinks & lunch cold

Columbia Icefield Adventure Admission (Ice Explorer + Columbia Icefield Skywalk)

Detailed itinerary

This award-winning Radventures small-group adventure begins with a stunning drive from Banff, spotting wildlife and learning about it's rich Indigenous & European history.

Stop 2

Widely regarded as the most scenic driving road in the entire world, the Icefields Parkway is punctuated by more than 100 ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls, dramatic rock spires, and emerald lakes set in sweeping valleys of thick pine and larch forests.

The abundance of wildlife along the drive through Banff & Jasper National Park will have you peering around every turn.

As we take our time to explore, we'll stop for a short hike or two to a breath-taking view point, capture that stunning photo to share with friends and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the splendour of the Canadian Rockies pristine wilderness.
You can be rest assured that you're experiencing the Icefields Parkway the right way!

Stop 3

The incredibly shaped glacier-fed Peyto Lake is one of the most visited and photographed lakes in the Canadian Rockies for good reason.

During the summer, glacial rock flour flows into the lake and these suspended rock particles give the lake its bright, turquoise colour.

We'll take an easy walk to view the lake from Bow Summit, 2,088 metres (6,800 feet) above sea level.

Bow Summit is the highest point on the Icefields Parkway and is the highest elevation crossed by a public road in Canada.

Stop 4

Just as the name implies these glaciers or “fields of ice” straddle Banff National Park and Jasper National Park and are the largest south of the Arctic Circle!

They are 325km2 in area and 100 to 365 metres (328 to 1,197 ft) in depth and receives up to seven metres (275 in) of snowfall per year.

Step onto the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier aboard an all-terrain Ice Explorer, where you’ll walk on ancient ice.

Stop 5

The neon blue Bow Lake is the headwaters of the Bow River, that big beauty of a river that you'll see running through Lake Louise, Banff, Calgary and across the country until it hits Hudson Bay all the way out in the east of Canada!

The lake lines the Icefields Parkway and makes a perfect place to go for a walk down to the lake shore to see Crowfoot Glacier, Wapta Icefield, Bow Glacier, Crowfoot Mountain and Mount Thompson.

Stop 6

Brave the glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk, suspended high above the Sunwapta Valley, offering an exhilarating perspective of the untouched wilderness below.

What's not included

To inquire about adding the Ice Explorer & Glacier Skywalk please contact Radventures before booking

Guide gratuities (not mandatory but greatly appreciated)

Hotel pick-up in Banff or Lake Louise (please contact Radventures BEFORE booking for availability)

Park Pass

Premium upgrade that includes a picnic lunch (please contact Radventures before booking)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Service animals allowed

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children 5 and under are unable to join our small group adventures

Meeting point

Park in the free parking lot.

Please meet our guide at the front of the Banff Train Station building and allow an extra 5 minutes for parking and walking to the meet point.

For select hotel pick-ups in Banff & Lake Louise please contact Radventures BEFORE booking.

About Banff

Banff is a resort town within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, hot springs, and outdoor adventures, it's one of the most visited destinations in the Canadian Rockies. The town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and a charming mountain culture.

Top Attractions

Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola takes visitors to the top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. The ride offers panoramic vistas and access to hiking trails and a restaurant.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate ($50-$60 CAD per adult)

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of the most famous and iconic lakes in the world. Known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, it's a must-visit for hiking, photography, and relaxation.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit, parking fees apply

Banff Upper Hot Springs

The Banff Upper Hot Springs offer a relaxing soak in natural mineral waters with stunning mountain views. The historic facility has been a popular attraction since the late 1800s.

Relaxation 1-2 hours Budget ($10-$15 CAD per adult)

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is another iconic turquoise lake in Banff National Park. Known for its stunning views and hiking trails, it's a popular spot for photography and outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit, parking fees apply

Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon is a beautiful hiking trail that leads to stunning waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained and offers breathtaking views of the canyon and waterfalls.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison

Bison is a local delicacy, often served as steaks or burgers. It's lean, flavorful, and a sustainable choice.

Main course Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.

Poutine

A Canadian classic, poutine consists of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Banff offers many variations, including gourmet and vegetarian options.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Elk

Elk is another local favorite, often served as steaks or in stews. It's lean, tender, and packed with flavor.

Main course Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Rock climbing Skiing and snowboarding Soaking in hot springs Scenic gondola rides Picnicking by the lake

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to March

Summer offers warm weather and ideal conditions for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Winter is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Crowds are highest during these peak seasons.

20-30°C (summer), -10-5°C (winter) 68-86°F (summer), 14-41°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT), GMT-7 (standard time), GMT-6 (daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Banff is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Calgary International Airport • 130 km (81 miles)

By train

Banff Station

By bus

Banff Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Roam Transit offers affordable and convenient bus services throughout Banff and the surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and well-connected.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Banff Taxi, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Banff Banff Springs Canmore

Day trips

Canmore

25 km (16 miles) • Half day to full day

Canmore is a charming town near Banff, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities. It's known for its hiking trails, local shops, and stunning mountain views.

Yoho National Park

56 km (35 miles) • Full day

Yoho National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Kootenay National Park

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

Kootenay National Park is another stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. It's a great option for a full-day trip from Banff.

Festivals

Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival • October Banff Jazz and Blues Festival • August Banff International Snow Sculpting Competition • January

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Consider purchasing a Parks Canada pass for unlimited entry to national parks and historic sites.
Dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains.
Book accommodations, activities, and restaurants in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Be aware of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk, and maintain a safe and non-intrusive distance.