10 AM – 6 PM

2-3 hours approx.

Price from: CA$144.21

Columbia Icefield Calgary Tickets – Glacier Adventure, Skywalk & Visitor Guide

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Glacier Adventure: Ice Explorer Glacier Tour and Glacier Skywalk

Highlights

Explore a 10,000-year-old glacier with expert commentary.

Ride specialized Ice Explorer vehicles across rugged icy terrain.

Walk on the thrilling glass-bottomed SkyWalk overlooking stunning valleys.

Enjoy a live guide who provides fascinating insights throughout the tour.

Access audio guides in nine languages for a deeper understanding.

3.9

(11)

Columbia Icefield Skywalk: Entry Ticket

Highlights

Walk safely along a glass-enclosed cliff edge structure that puts you directly in touch with the surrounding wilderness.

Take in the mesmerizing sights of snow-speckled glaciers, changing clouds, and natural rock formations right beneath your feet.

Learn about the local ecosystem, wildlife, and geology through engaging interpretive commentary.

Columbia Icefield: Guided Day Tour from Banff + Skywalk Entry + Lunch

Highlights

Traverse the rugged frozen terrain of the Athabasca Glacier aboard a specially designed, heavy-duty Ice Explorer vehicle.

Stand 900+ feet high on the glass-floored Glacier Skywalk for heart-pumping views over the Sunwapta Valley.

Relax on a scenic 3-hour mountain drive while learning about local natural history from an expert guide.

Welcome to Columbia Icefield Adventure, Calgary

Discover the breathtaking Columbia Icefield Adventure, nestled in the heart of Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies. Experience the thrill of exploring the vast Athabasca Glacier aboard a specially designed Ice Explorer vehicle and take in stunning panoramic views from the glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk. This natural wonder offers a unique blend of adventure and awe-inspiring landscapes that captivate visitors from around the world. Secure your tickets today to embark on an unforgettable journey into one of North America’s largest ice fields.

About Columbia Icefield Adventure

The Columbia Icefield Adventure provides a unique opportunity to experience one of the largest ice fields in North America, situated within the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. This attraction allows visitors to traverse the Athabasca Glacier aboard the specialized Ice Explorer vehicle, designed for safe and comfortable glacial travel. Complementing this experience is the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a remarkable glass-floored observation platform offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Nestled in Jasper National Park, the Columbia Icefield Adventure combines natural grandeur with engineering innovation, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Location Jasper National Park, Canadian Rockies, Alberta, Canada
Established in Columbia Icefield Adventure as a tourist attraction has been operating since the late 20th century, with continued enhancements to visitor experience through the addition of the Ice Explorer and Skywalk

Why Visit Columbia Icefield Adventure?

Experience the thrill of traversing the ancient Athabasca Glacier on a specially designed Ice Explorer vehicle. These rugged machines are built to safely navigate the icy terrain, allowing visitors to get up close to one of North America’s largest glaciers and witness its magnificent blue ice formations firsthand.

Step onto the glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding glacier and rugged mountains. This engineering marvel offers an exhilarating perspective, combining the excitement of walking over a canyon edge with the tranquility of the pristine natural landscape.

As one of the most extensive ice fields in North America, the Columbia Icefield spans over 325 square kilometers. Visitors to the area can marvel at this vast expanse of ice and snow, appreciating its geological significance and the role it plays in feeding several major rivers in the region.

Located within Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, the Columbia Icefield Adventure provides a gateway to a protected wilderness area rich in wildlife, alpine scenery, and outdoor recreation opportunities that appeal to nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

The Columbia Icefield Adventure offers more than just scenic views; it is an informative journey into glaciology and geology. Visitors gain insight into glacier dynamics, climate impact, and the natural history of the Canadian Rockies, making it an enriching experience for all ages.

Operating Hours of Columbia Icefield

May 1 – June 14 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
June 15 – September 6 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
September 7 – September 30 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
October 1 – October 12 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Important Information Weather Note: Operating hours may vary depending on weather conditions

Best Times to Visit Columbia Icefield

Early Morning Departures (Right After Opening)

Starting your Columbia Icefield Adventure early in the day gives you the best chance to enjoy quieter surroundings and uninterrupted glacier views. Morning tours typically have fewer visitors, making it easier to take photos, explore the Athabasca Glacier, and fully enjoy the Skywalk without long wait times.

Weekdays, Especially Tuesday to Thursday

Midweek visits tend to be less crowded compared to weekends, when both tourists and locals flock to the Icefields Parkway. Visiting between Tuesday and Thursday allows for a more relaxed experience, shorter queues for tours, and better availability of preferred time slots.

Late Spring (May to Early June)

This is one of the best-kept secrets for visiting the Columbia Icefield. You’ll enjoy fewer crowds than peak summer, while still having access to glacier tours. Snow-capped landscapes are still prominent, offering dramatic scenery and excellent photo opportunities.

Early Fall (September)

September strikes the perfect balance between good weather and lighter crowds. The summer rush starts to fade, but conditions remain ideal for glacier exploration. You may also catch early fall colors along the Icefields Parkway, adding even more beauty to your trip.

Clear Weather Days for the Best Views

Since the experience is heavily weather-dependent, visiting on a clear day ensures you get panoramic views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. Sunny conditions enhance visibility and make outdoor attractions like the Skywalk even more enjoyable.

Where to Find the Columbia Icefield in Calgary

Location The Columbia Icefield is located along the scenic Icefields Parkway in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Calgary. Nestled between Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, it’s easily accessible as part of one of the most beautiful road trips in the world. The attraction sits near the Athabasca Glacier, offering breathtaking alpine views and a true wilderness experience.
Address Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North),
Jasper National Park, AB T0E 1E0,
Canada

How to Get to the Columbia Icefield

By Car

Driving is the most popular and flexible way to reach the Columbia Icefield.

From Calgary, it’s approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive via the Trans-Canada Highway and the stunning Icefields Parkway (Highway 93).

The route passes through Banff National Park and offers breathtaking mountain views along the way.

Ample parking is available near the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.

Starting early in the day helps you avoid traffic and gives you more time to enjoy scenic stops.

By Guided Tour Bus

Several tour operators offer day trips from Calgary, Banff, and Jasper to the Columbia Icefield.

These tours often include transportation, guided commentary, and tickets for the Icefield Adventure.

It’s a stress-free option if you prefer not to drive, especially along mountain roads.

Many tours also include stops at iconic viewpoints along the Icefields Parkway.

By Shuttle Services

Seasonal shuttle services operate from nearby hubs like Banff and Jasper.

These are ideal for visitors staying within the national parks who want a convenient and eco-friendly option.

Shuttle schedules may vary, so it’s best to book in advance during peak travel months.

This option allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery without focusing on driving.

By Train + Road Transfer

While there is no direct train to the Columbia Icefield, you can take a train to nearby towns like Jasper via services such as Via Rail.

From there, you’ll need to continue by car, shuttle, or guided tour to reach the Icefield.

This option is ideal for travelers combining a scenic rail journey with a road trip through the Rockies.

By Rideshare or Private Transfer

Private transfers and rideshare options can be arranged from Calgary, Banff, or Jasper.

This is a convenient choice for small groups or travelers looking for a more personalized experience.

It offers flexibility in timing and the ability to stop at scenic spots along the way.

By Air (Nearest Airports + Drive)

The closest major airport is Calgary International Airport.

From the airport, you can rent a car or join a guided tour to reach the Columbia Icefield.

Another option is flying into Edmonton International Airport and driving via Jasper.

Driving from either airport offers a scenic introduction to the Canadian Rockies.

Things to Know Before Visiting the Columbia Icefield

Facilities
Accessibility
Guidelines
Rules

Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre The main visitor hub features ticketing services, information desks, and access to the Icefield Adventure and Skywalk experiences.
Dining Options On-site restaurants and cafés offer a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages with scenic mountain views.
Restrooms Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available at the Discovery Centre for visitor convenience.
Gift Shop Browse a wide selection of souvenirs, apparel, and locally inspired merchandise to remember your visit.
Parking Ample parking is available near the Discovery Centre, including space for tour buses and private vehicles.
Viewing Areas Designated viewpoints around the glacier allow visitors to safely enjoy panoramic views and take photos.

Interesting Facts About the Columbia Icefield

One of the Largest Icefields in North America

The Columbia Icefield is one of the largest ice masses south of the Arctic Circle, covering an area of over 125 square miles.

Feeds Three Oceans

Meltwater from the icefield flows into three different oceans—the Arctic, Pacific, and Atlantic—making it a rare hydrological phenomenon known as a “triple divide.”

Home to the Athabasca Glacier

The most accessible glacier in North America, the Athabasca Glacier, is part of the Columbia Icefield and can be explored through guided tours.

Ice That’s Hundreds of Years Old

Some of the ice you’ll walk on during the Icefield Adventure is estimated to be over 400 years old.

Constantly Moving Ice

The glaciers here are always in motion, slowly flowing down the mountains at a rate of several feet per year.

A Natural Climate Archive

Scientists study the icefield to understand past climate conditions, as layers of ice preserve environmental data going back centuries.

Shrinking Due to Climate Change

The Columbia Icefield has been steadily retreating over the past century, offering a visible example of the impact of global warming.

Dramatic Ice Thickness

In some areas, the icefield is nearly 1,200 feet thick—about the height of a 100-story building.

Located Along a Scenic Highway

It sits along the famous Icefields Parkway, often ranked among the most scenic drives in the world.

Gateway Between Two National Parks

The icefield lies on the border of Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, making it a highlight for visitors exploring both parks.

Columbia Icefield in Images

FAQs About the Columbia Icefield

Where is the Columbia Icefield located?

The Columbia Icefield is located along the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) in the Canadian Rockies, about 2.5 to 3 hours from Calgary. It sits between Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.

What is included in the Columbia Icefield Adventure?

The Columbia Icefield Adventure typically includes a ride on a massive Ice Explorer vehicle onto the Athabasca Glacier, along with access to the Glacier Skywalk—a glass-floored observation platform overlooking the Sunwapta Valley.

How long does the Columbia Icefield Adventure take?

The full experience usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, including transportation, glacier exploration time, and a visit to the Skywalk.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak months (June to September), to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long wait times.

What should I wear when visiting the Columbia Icefield?

Visitors should dress in warm layers, even during summer, as temperatures on the glacier can be significantly cooler. Sturdy, non-slip footwear is also recommended due to icy and uneven terrain.

Is the Columbia Icefield open year-round?

No, the Columbia Icefield Adventure is a seasonal attraction, typically operating from May to mid-October, depending on weather conditions.

Can you walk on the glacier without a tour?

No, for safety reasons, access to the Athabasca Glacier is only permitted through guided tours using specialized Ice Explorer vehicles.

Is the Columbia Icefield suitable for children and families?

Yes, the experience is family-friendly and suitable for most age groups. However, children must be supervised at all times, especially on the glacier and Skywalk.

Are there dining and restroom facilities available?

Yes, the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre offers restaurants, cafés, and restrooms, making it convenient for visitors to relax and refresh during their trip.