Icefields Parkway Day Tour: Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake & Athabasca Glacier
Drive one of Canada’s most scenic roads, stand on ancient ice, and watch alpine lakes glow turquoise. This full-day Icefields Parkway tour from Banff links Peyto Lake’s viewpoint with the Columbia Icefield and optional Ice Explorer experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for sudden weather shifts
Temperatures can vary 10–15°C between valley and glacier; bring a warm insulating layer and a waterproof shell.
Book the Ice Explorer in advance
The glacier ride is an add-on and sells out on busy days—reserve the package when you book your tour.
Bring cash or card for lunch
Lunch stops are in Lake Louise Village—cafés and convenience stores are available but options can be limited.
Keep distance from wildlife
Elk, bighorn sheep and bears may be near pullouts; remain in your vehicle if animals are close and use binoculars.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Two Jack Lake’s red lounge chairs at sunset—fewer visitors and dramatic reflections
- •Bow Lake overlook on the Icefields Parkway for close glacier-fed water colors
Wildlife
- •Elk
- •Bighorn sheep
Conservation Note
Glaciers in the Columbia Icefield are retreating; staying on trails, minimizing waste, and supporting park fees helps protect fragile alpine environments.
The Icefields region has been shaped by centuries of glaciation and is traditional territory of the Stoney Nakoda and Cree peoples whose place names and stories remain part of local interpretation.
Photographer's Notes
- • Peyto Lake official viewpoint
- • Bow Lake shoreline pullout
- • Columbia Icefield Glacier Centre boarding area
What to Bring
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)Essential
Keeps you warm at higher elevations and on the glacier where winds make temperatures feel much colder.
Waterproof shellEssential
Wind-driven rain or snow showers are common on the Parkway; a shell keeps you dry during stops and short hikes.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Trails at viewpoints are gravel or packed dirt and can be uneven—supportive shoes are safer than sandals.
Sunglasses + sunscreenEssential
Glare from snow and turquoise lakes intensifies UV exposure—protect eyes and skin.
Common Questions
Is the Ice Explorer ride included in the tour price?
No—Ice Explorer access is usually an optional upgrade; check your booking details and reserve the glacier package if you want to go onto the ice.
How long is the drive from Banff to the Columbia Icefield?
The full day tour runs about 7–10 hours round-trip, with several stops; driving time northbound is roughly 2.5–3 hours with photo breaks.
Are park fees included?
Yes—tour inclusions list a national park pass as part of the package.
Is lunch provided?
No—there is a scheduled lunch stop at Lake Louise Village where you can purchase food or bring a packed lunch.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
Aurora sightings are possible in winter on clear nights, but this daytime tour isn’t scheduled for aurora viewing; winter conditions can also alter the itinerary.
Is this tour suitable for children and strollers?
Yes—infants and small children can use strollers for short walks, but glacier activity and some viewpoints have steps and uneven terrain.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–10 hours
Location
Banff, Alberta
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
No advanced fitness required—able-bodied travelers who can handle short uneven walks and stairs will be comfortable.
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