Perched atop the rugged Canadian Rockies, the Columbia Icefield offers a breathtaking glimpse into the power of nature. Visitors can embark on a journey to the heart of this icy wonderland, where an unforgettable experience awaits. From the comfort of an Ice Explorer vehicle, they’ll venture onto the Athabasca Glacier, one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform, provides a unique vantage point to truly appreciate the scale and grandeur of this magnificent natural landscape. With a delicious hot buffet lunch and round-trip transportation, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on all who dare to explore its frozen secrets.
Key Points
- The Columbia Icefield Tour offers visitors a chance to witness the natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies, including the Athabasca Falls and the Columbia Icefield.
- The tour includes a ride on the Ice Explorer vehicle onto the Athabasca Glacier and admission to the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform.
- The tour provides round-trip transportation from select Jasper hotels, a hot buffet lunch, and local taxes.
- The tour runs seasonally from May to October and allows ample time to explore the Columbia Icefields Parkway.
- The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Tour Overview
The tour along the famous Columbia Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada, allows visitors to witness the region’s natural wonders, including the awe-inspiring Athabasca Falls and the vast expanse of the Columbia Icefield.
The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to ride the all-terrain Ice Explorer vehicle directly onto the surface of the Athabasca glacier. Travelers can also experience the thrilling Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform suspended over the glacial valley below.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from select hotels in Jasper, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for guests. With a duration of approximately 5.5 hours, this tour is a must-do activity for visitors to the Canadian Rockies.
Included in the Tour
Along With the exhilarating ride on the Ice Explorer, the tour includes a hot buffet lunch to refuel travelers.
Air-conditioned transportation ensures a comfortable journey, while admission to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk allows guests to marvel at the stunning glacial valley from a unique vantage point.
Local taxes are also covered as part of the comprehensive tour package.
The tour includes:
- Ride on the Ice Explorer
- Hot buffet lunch
- Air-conditioned transportation
- Columbia Icefield Skywalk admission
- Local taxes
Tour Duration and Timing
The tour duration is approximately 5.5 hours, running seasonally from May to October. This allows visitors ample time to explore the stunning natural wonders along the famous Columbia Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada.
Guests will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking Athabasca Falls, as well as traverse the surface of the mighty Athabasca Glacier aboard the all-terrain Ice Explorer vehicle. The tour also includes the captivating Glacier Skywalk experience, providing a unique perspective of the glacial landscape.
Whether visiting in the vibrant summer months or the serene shoulder seasons, this comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Pickup and Drop-off Details
Pickup from select hotels in Jasper occurs at 8:25 am, 8:35 am, and 8:40 am, allowing easy access to the tour’s starting point.
Guests then return to their Jasper hotels at the conclusion of the approximately 5.5-hour excursion. The tour’s convenient pick-up and drop-off locations ensure a seamless experience for travelers.
Key features of the pickup and drop-off details include:
- Centralized hotel pickup from multiple Jasper locations
- Prompt departure times to maximize touring time
- Air-conditioned transportation for a comfortable journey
- Stress-free return to hotels after the day’s activities
- Accommodations for wheelchair users and stroller-bound guests
Traveler Information
Wheelchair and stroller users can access the tour, and service animals are permitted.
A moderate level of physical fitness is required, with a maximum of 25 travelers per excursion.
The Columbia Icefield Tour offers an immersive experience amidst the stunning natural landscapes of Alberta, Canada.
Participants will embark on the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle, to venture onto the surface of the Athabasca glacier.
The Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys.
The tour is designed to cater to a range of visitors, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey for all.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a unique adventure, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Athabasca Falls and Glacier
Along the Columbia Icefields Parkway, travelers encounter the majestic Athabasca Falls, a thundering cascade that plummets over 75 feet into a rocky gorge carved by glacial meltwater.
Nearby, the expansive Columbia Icefield dominates the landscape, its ancient glaciers slowly grinding their way down the mountains. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true natural wonder, offering visitors the chance to witness the power and beauty of these glacial formations up close.
The Athabasca Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in North America, can be explored via the all-terrain Ice Explorer vehicles, which take visitors directly onto the surface of the ice. The surrounding scenery is simply breathtaking.
- Majestic Athabasca Falls
- Expansive Columbia Icefield
- Thundering cascade into rocky gorge
- Accessible Athabasca Glacier
- Breathtaking natural scenery
Ice Explorer Vehicle Experience
The Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle specially designed for glacier travel, takes visitors on an exhilarating journey atop the immense Athabasca Glacier, allowing them to experience the raw power and grandeur of this ancient, frozen landscape up close.
As the massive, six-wheeled vehicle navigates the glacier’s surface, passengers are in awe of the sheer size and scale of the ice field, which stretches as far as the eye can see.
The guided tour provides a unique opportunity to step out onto the glacier and feel the crunch of the ice underfoot, truly appreciating the magnitude and complexity of this natural wonder.
It’s a thrilling and unforgettable way to explore the Canadian Rockies’ most iconic glacial features.
Glacier Skywalk Attraction
Complementing the Ice Explorer experience, the Glacier Skywalk offers visitors a unique and thrilling vantage point to admire the stunning glacial landscapes. Cantilevered high above the Sunwapta Valley, the glass-floored walkway extends 918 feet (280 meters) and provides unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and the Athabasca Glacier below.
The Glacier Skywalk features:
- Transparent glass flooring for an immersive experience
- Interpretive exhibits highlighting the region’s geology and ecology
- Observation points with binoculars for wildlife spotting
- Accessible design for visitors of all abilities
- Photo opportunities to capture the breathtaking scenery
This exhilarating attraction invites guests to step out over the vast, rugged wilderness and connect with the natural wonder of the Canadian Rockies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
The tour does not have a minimum age requirement. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible for added convenience.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
There aren’t any specific discounts mentioned for seniors or students on this tour. However, the operator may offer discounted rates for certain groups, so it’s best to check with them directly for the latest pricing and availability.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide any meals or snacks, so bringing a packed lunch or snacks is allowed and recommended to enhance the overall experience.
What Are the Weather Conditions Like During the Tour?
The weather conditions can vary during the tour due to the mountainous environment. Travelers should expect cooler temperatures, potential rain or snow, and windy conditions. Dressing in layers and bringing appropriate outerwear is recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos and videos throughout the tour. The tour operator recognizes the scenic beauty of the natural attractions and allows guests to capture their experience.
Recap
The Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
From the thrilling Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier to the breathtaking Glacier Skywalk, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.
With a hot buffet lunch and round-trip transportation, it’s a must-do excursion for anyone exploring the stunning landscapes of Jasper.
