Calgary/Canmore/Banff: Columbia Icefield, Peyto, Bow Lake

Columbia Icefield Adventure in the Canadian Rockies: Guided day tours from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, suitable for nature lovers and photographers.

This tour offers two seasonal itineraries—summer runs from May 1 to October 12, and winter from October 12 to April 30—exploring iconic glacier and lake sights along the Icefields Parkway.

Summer Itinerary (May 1 – October 12)

Depart from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff and travel along the Icefields Parkway. Visit Crowfoot Glacier, an ancient glacier shaped over thousands of years, then Bow Lake, known for its striking turquoise water and mountain backdrop. Continue to Peyto Lake to admire its distinctive teardrop shape from a scenic viewpoint.

In the afternoon, arrive at the Columbia Icefield, one of North America’s largest icefields. Spend time exploring, photographing, and taking in the alpine surroundings before returning to your starting point. The experience allows a relaxed pace with opportunities for questions and photography.

If you want to purchase the Columbia Icefield Adventure Ticket (Snowcoach and Skywalk) in advance, notify us as early as possible. Tickets bought on-site are limited and not guaranteed.

Text us to reserve a free window seat—available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Winter Itinerary (October 12 – April 30)

Begin with pickups from Calgary (7:15 AM), Canmore (8:40 AM), or Banff (9:00 AM). Travel north along the Icefields Parkway, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. From December 1 to March 31, stop at Abraham Lake to walk on frozen ice bubbles (weather permitting) with free snowshoe rentals provided. Outside this period, the tour visits Sunwapta Falls and Athabasca Falls instead, and excludes Lake Louise.

Next, visit Peyto Lake for a short walk to the winter viewpoint. Conclude the tour at Lake Louise, where you can walk on the frozen lake, explore the snowy shoreline, or view Victoria Glacier.

This full-day winter tour features scenic drives, ice walks, and complimentary snowshoe rentals.

Highlights

• See Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, and Abraham Lake’s frozen bubbles (winter only)
• Traverse glaciers and icefields aboard the Ice Explorer and visit the Skywalk (summer option)
• Drive the scenic Icefields Parkway, surrounded by mountain peaks
• Enjoy scenic hiking to Peyto Lake viewpoint
• Free snowshoe rental during winter ice walks

Includes

• National park pass granting entry to all sightseeing locations
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Designated pickup and drop-off in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff
• Goods and Services Tax (GST)
• Professional tour guide
• Free professional photography

Excludes

• All meals
• Personal expenses including activities and travel insurance
• Gratuities
• Columbia Icefield Adventure tickets (Snowcoach and Skywalk) can be purchased on-site or booked in advance—notify local provider early to guarantee availability
• Luggage, wheelchair, or stroller accommodations require advance notice

Important Information

• Pickup times and locations are fixed. Choose the most convenient pickup point carefully. Contact us with any special requests.
• If your selected language tour lacks sufficient participants, we will offer alternatives.
• The tour may be cancelled or rescheduled if minimum participant requirements are not met. You will be informed ahead of time.
• The total tour duration includes travel time.
• We will send a reminder the day before the tour—please check your email or messages carefully.
• Weather and road conditions may require itinerary adjustments. Any changes will be communicated the day before departure.

Easy Cancellation

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

For the best experience, dress for the season and bring sturdy walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Book early to secure your preferred dates and optional tickets.