Hiking the Columbia Icefields Region with Your Private Guide

Jasper , Canada

Hiking the Columbia Icefields Region with Your Private Guide

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About this experience

The Columbia Icefields, revered as the "heart of Turtle Island" by Indigenous tribes, provide a stunning backdrop for this customizable hiking adventure.

Setting off from Jasper early in the morning, venture into the heart of the Canadian Rockies, where breathtaking glaciers, alpine lakes, and jagged summits await.

Experience three unique hikes that showcase the area's natural beauty, with lunch served at a breathtaking viewpoint. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and offers flexibility to suit various fitness levels.

- Enjoy a customizable hiking experience tailored to your fitness level
- Lunch served at a scenic viewpoint with stunning glaciers
- Option to start from the Icefields Centre if traveling from Banff or Lake Louise

Available options

Hiking the Columbia Icefields Region with Your Private Guide

What's included

Guide with passion and knowledge of the Canadian Rockies

Detailed itinerary

We will do 3 stunning hikes with views of the Columbia Icefields.

This is a unique way to see the magnificence of the largest Icefield in the Canadian Rockies and to learn about your glaciers.

There are opportunities to see wildlife and spend time in outstanding nature and solitude!

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Park at the lower parking lot, climb stairs to Starbucks and I will be between Starbucks and the washroom. There is cell service so we can text each other.

About Jasper

Jasper is a charming mountain town nestled in the heart of Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and dark-sky preserve, Jasper offers a serene and adventurous escape with a small-town charm.

Top Attractions

Jasper SkyTram

The Jasper SkyTram is a scenic aerial tram that takes visitors to the top of Whistlers Mountain, offering panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate

Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake is one of the most famous and beautiful lakes in Jasper National Park, known for its deep blue waters and stunning mountain backdrop.

Nature Half day to full day Free (boat tours and rentals cost extra)

Columbia Icefield

The Columbia Icefield is one of the largest icefields in North America, offering visitors the chance to explore ancient glaciers and experience the thrill of walking on ice.

Nature Full day Moderate to expensive (depending on activities chosen)

Jasper National Park Information Centre

The Jasper National Park Information Centre is a great starting point for visitors, offering exhibits on the park's natural and cultural history, as well as information on activities and trails.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Marmot Basin

Marmot Basin is a popular ski resort located within Jasper National Park, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the winter and hiking in the summer.

Adventure Half day to full day Moderate to expensive (depending on activities chosen)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison Burger

A delicious burger made with locally sourced bison meat, often served with toppings like caramelized onions, cheddar cheese, and bacon.

Main Course Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian options are available at some restaurants.

Elk Steak

Tender elk steak, often served with seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce, showcasing the flavors of the Canadian Rockies.

Main Course Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available at some restaurants.

Wild Blueberry Pie

A sweet and tangy pie made with wild blueberries, a local delicacy in the Jasper area.

Dessert Vegetarian and gluten-free options may be available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Snowboarding Snowshoeing Ice climbing Helicopter tours Scenic drives Wildlife viewing

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and all trails and facilities fully open. It's ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor adventures.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT) (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Jasper is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, visitors should be aware of the potential for wildlife encounters and the challenges of outdoor activities in a mountainous environment.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
• Dress appropriately for the weather and activities.
• Carry a map and compass, and inform someone of your plans when hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities.

Getting there

By air

Edmonton International Airport • 365 km (227 miles)
Jasper Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles)

By train

Jasper Train Station

By bus

Jasper Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Jasper Transit offers a local bus service with routes covering the town and some nearby attractions. The service is limited and primarily designed for residents.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi services

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Jasper Town Site Whistlers Old Fort Point

Day trips

Maligne Canyon

29 km (18 miles) • Half day to full day

Maligne Canyon is a stunning gorge with a series of waterfalls and turquoise pools, offering a variety of hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Athabasca Falls

33 km (20.5 miles) • Half day to full day

Athabasca Falls is a powerful and beautiful waterfall located along the Icefields Parkway, offering stunning views and a variety of hiking trails.

Sunwapta Falls

45 km (28 miles) • Full day

Sunwapta Falls is a series of waterfalls and rapids located along the Sunwapta River, offering a variety of hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Festivals

Jasper Dark Sky Festival • October Jasper Pride Festival • September Jasper Wildlife Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit the Jasper Information Centre for maps, brochures, and advice on the best trails and attractions.
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and year.
Bring bear spray and know how to use it, as bear encounters are possible in the park.
Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak season.
Take advantage of the park's dark-sky preserve by stargazing on a clear night.