Calgary Banff: Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, and Lakes DayTour

Traveling through the Canadian Rockies is like flipping through a postcard collection—breathtaking peaks, shimmering lakes, and glaciers that seem to float in time. This particular tour offers a well-organized way to see many of the region’s most famous sights in one day, perfect for those with limited time but big dreams of mountain majesty. From the thrill of walking on the glass-floored Skywalk to marveling at the vibrant hues of Peyto Lake, we’re talking about a day packed with outstanding vistas and memorable moments.

If you love a mix of adventure and picture-perfect landscapes, this tour is a strong contender. We especially appreciate the knowledgeable guides who can turn a long day into a series of engaging stories and helpful tips. The cost—around $68 per person—delivers surprisingly good value, considering the number of stops and the sheer beauty you’ll see. But a quick heads-up: Columbia Icefield and Skywalk tickets are not included in the standard price, so plan to reserve those separately if you want the full experience.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those wanting a comprehensive Rockies experience without the hassle of driving. It’s a long but rewarding day, best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced trip, you might find the tight schedule a bit rushed. For most, though, the chance to tick off so many iconic sights in one go makes this a compelling choice.

• All-in-one experience: Covers the Columbia Icefield, Skywalk, and major lakes, providing a comprehensive Rockies day trip.
• Expert guides: Tour guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the long day enjoyable.
• Stunning photo ops: Stops at Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and Waterfowl Lake offer countless chances for memorable photos.
• Good value: At $68, the tour offers access to numerous breathtaking sites, with many reviews highlighting the overall worth.
• Flexible booking options: Can be reserved with the “reserve now, pay later” feature, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior.
• Limited inclusions: The Skywalk and Icefield tours are optional extras, not covered by the base price.

This tour is designed as a curated journey through the highlights of the Canadian Rockies, starting early in Calgary, Banff, or Canmore. It’s a long day—11 hours in total—but one filled with some of the most remarkable landscapes Alberta has to offer.

Transportation & Group Size: You’ll travel comfortably by bus or van, with reviews frequently praising the friendly and attentive guides—many of whom speak multiple languages including English, Hindi, and Punjabi. The group size is small enough for personalized attention, often around 12 people, which enhances the experience and ensures everyone gets ample time at each stop.

Starting Points & Timing: You can choose between several pickup locations, such as downtown Calgary, Canmore Visitor Information Centre, or Banff Caribou Lodge. The tour kicks off early, around 8:00am, with pickups at other locations following. This schedule is well-planned to maximize daylight and sightseeing time.

Columbia Icefield & Athabasca Glacier

The crown jewel of the trip is visiting the Columbia Icefield, a vast expanse of ice that has been shrinking but remains awe-inspiring. You have the option to take an Ice Explorer tour, which takes you onto the glacier itself—a highlight for many visitors. However, note that tickets for the Ice Explorer are not included in this tour’s base price and must be purchased separately.

Many reviews mention the sense of scale at the Icefield—“Witness the vastness of the icefield and see glaciers slowly changing,” as one traveler notes. The glaciers are a reminder that climate change is real, and seeing these giants up close is a sobering yet beautiful experience.

Guides often share stories of how glaciers have receded over time, adding context to the visual impact. Some travelers mention the optional Ice Explorer tour feels worth the extra cost, especially for those interested in experiencing the glacier from the inside out.

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Skywalk over Sunwapta Valley

Next up is the Skywalk, a glass-floored platform suspended over the Sunwapta Valley. It’s a heart-racing moment—walking out over a sheer drop with panoramic views of rocky cliffs and forested depths below. Many reviewers describe it as “thrilling” and “a must-do,” and it’s clear that the transparent floor provides an adrenaline rush along with incredible photo opportunities.

Since tickets aren’t included, you’ll want to budget for this if you’re eager to walk on the glass. The views from the Skywalk are often described as “breathtaking,” providing a perspective of the valley that is difficult to match elsewhere.

Lakes and Waterfalls

After the Icefield and Skywalk, the tour visits several lakes that look like they’ve been painted by a landscape artist. Peyto Lake is famous for its wolf-shaped appearance and vibrant, turquoise waters, making it a favorite for photos. The stop here is brief but impactful—many travelers say it’s worth the quick visit for the scenery.

Bow Lake and Waterfowl Lake are next, offering serene waters framed by mountain peaks and glaciers. Waterfowl Lake, in particular, has beautiful reflections and is often praised for its peaceful setting. Many reviews highlight that these lakes feel like scenes from a dream, and photographers especially love capturing the changing light over the water.

Waterfalls & Scenic Views

Other notable stops include Tangle Creek Falls and Mistaya Canyon, where rushing water and striking rock formations make for great photo moments. The tour also makes a quick stop at Herbert Lake—another picture-perfect spot that’s often highlighted on social media.

Lake Louise & Lake Minnewanka

Depending on the season, the tour may include a short stop at Lake Louise—about 30 minutes in winter—giving you a quick taste of one of the Rockies’ most iconic lakes. In summer, the experience might be slightly longer, but the focus remains on the other lakes and mountains.

Lake Minnewanka is another gem, offering expansive views and a sense of wilderness. Visitors often remark on the variety of scenery packed into a single day.

Additional Stops & Flexibility

Some reviews mention extra stops at Sanjeet or other viewpoints—guides often go the extra mile, offering local insights and helping everyone with photos. The tour’s ability to balance multiple locations while maintaining schedule is praised, though a few suggest that slightly more buffer time at each stop could improve the experience.

Cost & Value: The $68 price tag is competitive, considering it covers transport, a guide, and access to many major sights. The real value lies in the convenience of having a knowledgeable guide who navigates the logistics and shares insights. For those wanting to see many highlights without the hassle of planning or driving, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck.

What to Bring: Dress in layers—Alberta weather can change quickly from sun to sleet. A camera is essential for capturing the unforgettable views, and comfortable shoes are a must for walking on glaciers or uneven terrain.

Booking & Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, providing some flexibility. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before, which is helpful if your plans change.

Limitations: The tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues or heart problems due to the physical nature of some stops, like walking on glaciers or around rugged viewpoints.

The carefully curated stops and the quality of guides make this a standout option for most travelers interested in the Rockies. People rave about the guide’s friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile—many reviewers mention that guides like Aashish or Sanjeet made their trip memorable.

The tour is especially appealing to photo enthusiasts, as every stop offers a new scene to capture. It also suits families, solo travelers, or couples who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the stress of navigating alone.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about the places you visit, the tours’ explanations and personal touches stand out. And if you’re on a budget but want to see the Rockies’ best bits, the value for money is hard to beat.

This full-day tour from Calgary, Banff, or Canmore is an excellent way to tick off many of the Canadian Rockies’ most famous sights in just one day. From walking on the Skywalk to gazing at the turquoise waters of Peyto Lake, every stop offers memorable scenery and photo opportunities. The guided aspect adds value, as experienced guides share insights and ensure you get the most from each location.

While some attractions like the Skywalk and Ice Explorer are extras you’ll need to purchase separately, the core experience already delivers an impressive array of sights for the price. The tour’s success largely hinges on the quality of guides, who are consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and flexibility.

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see the highlights with minimal hassle, photographers looking for picture-perfect moments, and those willing to spend a full day immersed in mountain splendor. If you prioritize comfort, variety, and expert guidance, it offers a great return on investment.

Are the Columbia Icefield and Skywalk tickets included in the tour price? No, both the Icefield tour (like the Ice Explorer) and Skywalk are optional extras and are not part of the $68 fee. You’ll need to purchase those separately if you want to experience them.

What is the duration of the tour? The full tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening, so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

Where do I meet for the tour? There are multiple pickup points, including Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown, Travel Alberta in Canmore, and Banff Caribou Lodge. Specific times are around 8:00am, 9:30am, and 9:50am depending on your location.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No, given the walking involved and the nature of some attractions, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or heart problems.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The “reserve now, pay later” option provides added flexibility.

Is food provided during the tour? No, meals are not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase food at stops along the way.

This tour is a superb way to experience the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies in one day—perfect for those who want a taste of mountain adventure with guides who make it all enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby