Experience the Columbia Icefield: Private Tour from Calgary
Active
10h - 11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What Sets Our Tour Apart?
✅ Exclusive Scenic Stops – Explore both iconic and hidden gems.
✅ Small Group Experience – More time at each stop, no crowded buses, and a relaxed pace.
✅ Expert Guides – Engaging stories and insights bring the Rockies to life.
✅ Columbia Icefield Adventure – Walk on ancient ice, visit the Athabasca Glacier, or add an Ice Explorer/Glacier Skywalk.
✅ Unmatched Photo Opportunities – Capture breathtaking views along the way.
✅ Stress-Free Travel – Round-trip from Calgary, Canmore, Banff town, in a comfortable vehicle.
Limited spots—Book now for an unforgettable adventure!
Available options
Canmore pick up
Canmore Visitor Centre 10AM
Calgary Pick up
Hyatt Regency pick up at 8:30
Banff Pick Up
Banff Train Station 10:30 AM: Scooter company by train station
What's included
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees
Entrance fee of Parks Canada
Detailed itinerary
1
Our first stop offers a breathtaking view of Castle Mountain, one of the most iconic peaks in Banff National Park. The rugged cliffs and striking formation of the mountain provide a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to admire the beauty of the Rockies.
2
Stop 2
Named after its original three-pronged shape resembling a crow’s foot, this glacier is a spectacular sight. Over the years, parts of the glacier have receded, but it remains an impressive and historical landmark within the park.
3
One of the most picturesque lakes along the Icefields Parkway, Bow Lake is fed by the Bow Glacier. Its turquoise waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a stunning landscape. This is a great place for a short stroll along the shoreline and capturing breathtaking photos.
4
Stop 4
Known for its distinctive wolf-head shape and vibrant blue color, Peyto Lake is one of the most famous stops on this journey. The elevated viewpoint provides a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains, making it one of the most photographed spots in the Canadian Rockies.
5
This unique rock face is named for the numerous waterfalls that cascade down its surface, particularly during the spring and summer months. In winter, it becomes a popular destination for ice climbers. It is a stunning natural feature that captures the essence of the rugged mountain landscape.
6
Stop 6
Waterfowl Lake/ Nestled between soaring peaks, Waterfowl Lakes are a serene and lesser-visited gem along the Icefields Parkway. These glacier-fed lakes offer a peaceful atmosphere, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the tranquil scenery.
7
Stop 7
The highlight of our journey, the Columbia Icefield is the largest icefield in the Rocky Mountains. Here, visitors can explore the Athabasca Glacier, take Ice Explorer tour, or visit the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform offering stunning views of the Sunwapta Valley. The experience of standing near a glacier that has existed for thousands of years is truly unforgettable.
8
This is the Big Bend and another beautiful falls viewpoint and its one of the most dramatic turns on the Icefields Parkway, Big Bend offers a sweeping view of the valley and surrounding peaks. Nearby, Panther Falls is a hidden gem, a powerful waterfall cascading down the cliffs, accessible via a short hike.
What's not included
Food
Columbia Ice-field experience fee
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Banff train station at parking lot. Pick up: 10:25am.
About Calgary
Calgary, known as the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a vibrant city that beautifully blends urban energy with stunning natural beauty. It's famous for its annual Calgary Stampede, a world-renowned rodeo and festival, and offers easy access to the breathtaking landscapes of Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies.
Top Attractions
Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is the greatest outdoor show on earth, featuring rodeos, chuckwagon races, live music, and much more. It's a must-visit event held annually in July.
Cultural
10 days
Free entry to the grounds, tickets required for some events
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Free entry with a Parks Canada pass
Calgary Tower
The Calgary Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. It's a great place to learn about Calgary's history and enjoy a meal with a view.
Architecture
1-2 hours
$19 CAD for adults, $10 CAD for children
Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park is Canada's largest living history museum, showcasing life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. Visitors can explore historic buildings, ride vintage trains, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Historical
3-4 hours
$29.95 CAD for adults, $17.95 CAD for children
Prince's Island Park
Prince's Island Park is a beautiful urban park located in the heart of Calgary. It's a great place for picnics, walks, and outdoor concerts. The park is also home to the Calgary Folk Music Festival and other events.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Beef Brisket
Slow-cooked, tender beef brisket is a Calgary staple, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Main Course
Not vegetarian/vegan
Bison Burger
A delicious and lean alternative to beef, bison burgers are a popular choice in Calgary.
Main Course
Not vegetarian/vegan
Butter Chicken
A beloved Indian dish, butter chicken is a creamy, spicy curry made with tender chicken pieces.
Main Course
Not vegetarian/vegan, contains dairy
Caesar Cocktail
A Canadian classic, the Caesar cocktail is a spicy, savory drink made with vodka, Clamato juice, and various seasonings.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Picnicking in parks
Yoga and meditation
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the best time to visit Calgary for warm weather and outdoor activities. It's also when the Calgary Stampede takes place, a major event not to be missed.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: French, Punjabi, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
GMT-7 (Mountain Time Zone)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Calgary is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Calgary International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By train
Calgary Station
By bus
Calgary Transit Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The CTrain is efficient, frequent, and a popular way to get around Calgary. It's free to ride downtown.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Beltline
Kensington
Innisfail
Day trips
Banff National Park
130 km (81 miles) • Full day or overnight
Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife.
Canmore
100 km (62 miles) • Half day or full day
Canmore is a charming mountain town located near Banff National Park, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and stunning scenery.
Drumheller
135 km (84 miles) • Full day
Drumheller is a town in the Canadian Badlands, known for its unique geological features, dinosaur fossils, and the famous Royal Tyrrell Museum.
Festivals
Calgary Stampede • July
Calgary Folk Music Festival • Early July
Calgary International Film Festival • Mid-September
Pro tips
- Visit during the Calgary Stampede for a unique and unforgettable experience, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
- Explore the city's extensive park system, including Prince's Island Park and the Bow River Pathway, for a taste of Calgary's natural beauty.
- Take advantage of the city's excellent public transit system, including the CTrain and buses, to get around easily and affordably.
- Try local specialties, such as beef brisket and bison burgers, and don't miss out on the city's thriving coffee and craft beer scenes.
- Dress in layers, as the weather in Calgary can change quickly, especially in the spring and fall.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
