How long is the Icefields tour?
Mia Phillips
Updated on April 24, 2026
Columbia Icefield Adventure (including the Columbia Icefield Skywalk) tours departs every 15 to 30 minutes throughout the daily hours of operation. The adventure lasts approx. 2.5 to 3 hours round-trip.
Is Columbia Icefield free?
You can do part of the walk no charge but you won’t get right onto the glacier. There is a parking lot at the foot of the glacier and then an interactive trail (national park lingo for informative plaques along the way). The hike is a little steep in one section but short. Costs nothing to park or walk the trail.
How much is the Glacier Skywalk?
Strolling on the Glacier Skywalk costs $24.95 per adult, $12.50 for each child up to age 16, while kids under 6 are free.
Can you drive to the Columbia Icefields?
Yes, you can drive to the Columbia Icefield area on the Icefields Parkway (HWY 93).
How much is a taxi from Banff to Lake Louise?
The quickest way to get from Banff to Lake Louise is to taxi which costs $140 – $180 and takes 44 min.
How old is Columbia Icefield?
240,000 years ago
The Columbia Icefield was formed during the Great Glaciation, some 240,000 years ago. Due to its isolation and harsh weather conditions the icefield is one of the last major geological features in western Canada to be discovered by man.
Can you visit the Columbia Icefield?
All vehicles must park at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre when visiting the Columbia Icefield Adventure and Skywalk. Visitors to the Skywalk must take the included shuttle from the Centre. Tours depart every hour from the Columbia Icefield Centre. Tour times fill quickly and do sell out on some days.
Is the glacier skywalk worth it?
Actual skywalk was ok, but very crowded, so much so that you couldn’t really see your feet to see it was a glass floor. The only attraction for miles so probably worth the stop but expect it to take about 1.5 hrs to complete the experience with approx 10 mins on the glass walk out.
Is the Athabasca Glacier worth it?
The Athabasca Glacier was a must see visit on our road trip to the Canadian Rockies. It was worth seeing! We did however, get to go on the sky bridge not too far from the glacier. That was an incredible experience.
How long is the glacier Skywalk?
Go beyond nature’s edge and immerse yourself in an awe-inspiring interpretive experience in one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Explore the immense powers of glaciology from a fully accessible, cliff-edge walkway that leads to a glass-floored observation platform 280 m (918 ft) above the Sunwapta Valley.
What do you do on the Icefields Parkway?
This tour travels halfway along the world-famous Icefields Parkway, recognized as one of the top drives in the world passing numerous Rocky Mountain peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, and emerald lakes. Your tour also includes round-trip transport from Banff, a mountain picnic lunch, Glacier Skywalk, and an all-terrain Ice Explorer tour. … More
What is there to do at Columbia Icefields?
Columbia Icefields Glacier Adventure and Skywalk Venture onto the Athabasca Glacier on the Ice Explorer, followed by a jaw-dropping walk along the Glacier Skywalk.
What should I wear on my Icefield tour?
While for a large portion of the tour you will be on the bus, it can snow, rain, hail or shine any month of the year at the Icefields and so we suggest to prepare for unpredictable weather and dress in layers with hats, gloves and warm shoes.
How many glaciers are there in Columbia Icefield?
Columbia Icefield Tours. More than 30 glaciers make up the icefield, including one of the largest and most visited, the Athabasca Glacier. A highlight of a visit is the Icefield Centre, which provides all the info you need to know about the formation of the icefield and its glaciers.