Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper

Planning a trip to Jasper and the surrounding Rockies? Then you’ve likely considered the iconic Columbia Icefield and its famous Glacier Skywalk. This tour promises a mix of spectacular scenery, thrilling glacier rides, and a chance to walk on ice—an experience packed into approximately 7 hours. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve taken this trip, to give you a clear picture of what to expect and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning vistas along Alberta’s Icefields Parkway, often called one of the most scenic drives in the world. Second, the opportunity to ride an all-terrain Ice Explorer onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier, which feels like stepping into a real-life snow globe. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the crowds and scheduling issues, which some travelers have noted can affect the overall enjoyment, especially during peak season.

This tour is ideal for outdoor lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those eager for an immersive experience in one of Canada’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. If you’re okay with a full day of travel, enjoy guided tours, and want to see glaciers up close, this outing could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery along the Icefields Parkway with multiple scenic stops.
• Glacier ride on the Ice Explorer offering a rare perspective of the Athabasca Glacier.
• Inclusion of Glacier Skywalk provides a thrilling vantage point on a glass-floored cliffside walkway.
• Lunch and tickets included make the day more seamless and enjoyable.
• Knowledgeable guides and well-organized transportation enhance the experience.
• Crowd levels can vary, impacting the feel of some stops.
• Seasonal operation from May to October limits the timing of this tour.
• Value for money generally deemed good, considering the inclusions and scenery.

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

The journey begins early, with pickup from select hotels in Jasper. This convenience means you avoid the hassle of renting a car if you prefer guided transport. Once aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, you’re in for a scenic ride filled with anticipation.

Scenic Drive Along Albertas Famous Parkway

The drive itself is part of the adventure. As you wind through the Rockies, your guides will point out mountain peaks, glacier-fed streams, and local wildlife—if you’re lucky. Many reviews mention the quality of the guides, with comments like “very informative and friendly,” which can turn a straightforward bus ride into a mini-lesson on the area’s geology, flora, and fauna.

Athabasca Falls Stop

The first notable stop is Athabasca Falls. With just 15 minutes available, it’s enough to see the power of this rushing waterfall. Many travelers mention it’s a “beautiful” and “photogenic” spot—a must for quick photo ops. Since the entrance is free, it’s an easy addition without extra cost.

Columbia Icefield Centre and Glacier Experience

Next, you arrive at the Columbia Icefield Centre, the hub of the day’s main attractions. Here, you’ll board the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle specially designed for glacier travel. This is where the real thrill begins. The ride onto the Athabasca Glacier offers a surreal sense of standing on a massive body of ice, dotted with snow patches and shimmering blue ice formations. The reviews consistently praise the ride as “unforgettable,” with some calling walking on the glacier the “highlight of their trip.”

Expect to spend about an hour at this stop, giving you time to take photos, learn from guides, and appreciate the scale of the glacier. Some reviews mention that the guides are particularly informative, adding context about glacial receding and climate change—an educational touch that enriches the experience.

Glacier Skywalk

The next stop, the Glacier Skywalk, is a glass-floored platform that extends out over the canyon, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. It’s a “thrilling” experience, and many visitors find it a “must-do” for the photo opportunities alone. The 30-minute visit allows plenty of time to enjoy the vistas, take selfies, and appreciate the engineering marvel that makes this experience possible.

Lunch Break

A hot buffet lunch is included, which many reviews describe as “decent” and “satisfying.” This is especially valued considering how much outdoor activity you’re doing. However, some travelers note that the lunch can be a bit basic, or that replenishment of food items could be better during busy times.

Return Journey and End of Tour

The ride back to Jasper is approximately 1.5 hours, often in a different vehicle. While most reviewers find the guides and drivers pleasant and helpful, some mention that the return trip can feel rushed or crowded, especially during peak season. One review describes the ride back as “bumpy and silent,” highlighting the importance of patience during this part of the day.

The Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $232.05 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering that it includes transportation, multiple key attractions, a glacier ride, and lunch, many find it good value. The all-inclusive nature simplifies planning and removes the hassle of booking separately. Plus, the opportunity to walk on a glacier and see the Skywalk—two experiences that usually cost more if booked independently—adds to the overall appeal.

A lot of positive feedback emphasizes the professionalism of guides and the quality of the experience, which justifies the cost for many travelers. However, some reviews point out the crowds and the less-than-ideal lunch during busy periods, reminders that this isn’t a solitary wilderness experience but a popular tourist activity.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviews praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Jamie, Cassie, and Dustin, who are noted for their helpful, informative, and humorous approach. This personal touch can make the whole trip more memorable and educational.

Several travelers pointed out the changing quality of the glacier over the years, a sobering reminder of climate change. Walking on the glacier is often described as “surreal,” with one reviewer calling it “the highlight of my 13-day trip.” Conversely, a few noted that the glacier’s receding state makes the scenery less pristine than in past years, a reminder that nature’s beauty is always evolving.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate outdoor adventures, stunning vistas, and guided tours. It suits travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity—walking on ice and navigating some bumpy bus rides. It’s a particularly good fit for families, photography buffs, and nature enthusiasts.

If you’re looking for a quiet, solitary wilderness experience, this might feel a bit crowded or commercialized, but if you want a comprehensive, well-organized day that captures the essence of the Rockies’ grandeur, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

The Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper offers a solid mix of scenic beauty, educational value, and adventure. You’ll get to see some of Canada’s most iconic landscapes, stand on a glacier, and walk on glass over a canyon. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the day not only beautiful but also informative.

While it’s a day of busy sightseeing, the experience of riding an Ice Explorer onto a glacier and peering over the Skywalk are genuinely memorable highlights. The included lunch and transportation make it a convenient package, though travelers should be prepared for the crowds and busy schedules during peak months.

This tour fits best for those who want to see the glaciers, enjoy guided commentary, and aren’t bothered by shared group experiences. For an active, scenic, and educational day in the Rockies, it’s a worthwhile splurge.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip pickup at select hotels in Jasper, making your day more comfortable and hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, including travel, stops, and activities.

What attractions are included?
You’ll visit Athabasca Falls, explore the Columbia Icefield in an Ice Explorer, and walk on the Glacier Skywalk, plus enjoy a buffet lunch.

Are tickets for the Skywalk included?
Yes, your ticket includes access to the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform over the canyon.

What is the main highlight?
Most travelers agree the glacier ride and walking on the Athabasca Glacier are the top experiences.

Does the tour operate year-round?
No, it runs from May through October, due to seasonal weather conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness, and younger children may need supervision on the glacier and Skywalk.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How crowded does it get?
Some reviews mention large crowds at certain stops, which can affect the experience, especially during peak season. Planning ahead can help mitigate this.

In summary, if you’re eager to see the glaciers, enjoy spectacular mountain views, and don’t mind a busy day, this tour offers a solid introduction to the Canadian Rockies’ icy wonders. It blends adventure, education, and scenery into one memorable day—worth considering for your Jasper itinerary.