Full-Day Trip to Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake from Banff or Calgary

Overview

Set off for a day of exploration in the Canadian Rockies along the Icefields Parkway. Accompanied by a professional guide, you will travel through spectacular landscapes to admire iconic sites such as Castle Mountain and Crowfoot Glacier. The itinerary includes stops at the turquoise waters of Peyto Lake and the peaceful shores of Bow Lake. Depending on the option chosen, you can board an Ice Explorer to traverse the Athabasca Glacier. Please note that this option excludes access to the glass bridge. The journey takes place in comfortable vehicles suited for groups. Pick-up points are available in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff. The excursion lasts approximately 11 hours, although this time may vary depending on your departure location.

Itinerary

1. Calgary

   Begin your adventure with convenient departures from Sandman Hotel Calgary Airport (25 Hopewell Way NE, Calgary, T3J 4V7), DoubleTree by Hilton Calgary North (2120 16 Ave NE, Calgary, T2E 1L4), Calgary Downtown (Harry Hays Building bus stop, opposite Delta Calgary Downtown hotel, 4 Ave SE), Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre (2801 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore, AB T1W 3A2), or Elk + Avenue Hotel (333 Banff Ave, Banff, T1L 1B1). Set off for an unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies, where towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and breathtaking landscapes await. From Banff National Park to the Icefields Parkway, every moment is a perfect photo opportunity.

   · Non-stop passage

2. Banff

   Calgary / Banff – Icefields Parkway – Crowfoot Glacier (drive-by) – Bow Lake (20 minutes) – Peyto Lake (30 minutes) – The Crossing (lunch at own expense, 45 minutes) – Columbia Icefield (mandatory activity: Ice Explorer Snowcoach, 90 minutes) – Banff / Calgary

   · Non-stop passage

3. Icefields Parkway

   Journey along Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic highways in the world! This breathtaking 3-hour drive connects Lake Louise in Banff National Park to Jasper in Jasper National Park, offering panoramic views of rugged peaks, ancient glaciers, and turquoise lakes. Allow yourself a full day to experience its wonders, stopping for iconic sights, wildlife spotting, and unforgettable photo opportunities. Ready for the drive of a lifetime?

   · Non-stop passage

4. Crowfoot Glacier

   Pass by Crowfoot Glacier, an awe-inspiring natural wonder along the Icefields Parkway! Named for its original crow-like shape, this stunning glacier sits at the edge of Bow Lake, offering breathtaking views of rugged ice formations and towering peaks. Whether glistening under the summer sun or draped in winter snow, it’s a must-see photo opportunity on your journey through the Canadian Rockies. Get ready for an unforgettable sight!

   · Non-stop passage

5. Bow Lake

   a hidden gem in the Canadian Rockies, just 30 minutes north of Lake Louise along the Icefields Parkway! Nestled at 1,920 meters (6,300 ft) elevation, this pristine lake is fed by the meltwater of the Bow Glacier in the Wapta Icefield. Admire its turquoise waters, soak in the breathtaking mountain views, or enjoy a peaceful picnic by the shore. A must-see spot for nature lovers and photographers!

   · 20 min

6. Peyto Lake

   Discover Peyto Lake, one of the most breathtaking sights in the Canadian Rockies! Famous for its brilliant turquoise waters and distinct wolf-head shape, this glacier-fed wonder is a photographer’s dream. Stop at Bow Summit, the highest vehicle-accessible point on the Icefields Parkway, and soak in unforgettable panoramic views. A must-visit destination for nature lovers exploring Banff and Jasper National Parks!

   · 20 min

7. Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont Banff Springs

   The Crossing (lunch at own expense, 45 minutes)

   · 45 min

8. Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre

   Columbia Icefield (mandatory activity: Ice Explorer Snowcoach, 90 minutes) The Ice Explorer experience needs to be booked in advance. The tickets are not sold on-site. Guests without tickets will not be able to join the activity and may have idle waiting time while others participate. To make the most of your tour, we recommend securing your ticket at the time of booking. Get ready for an unforgettable glacier adventure! Begin at the Glacier Discovery Centre, then hop on a shuttle to the Icefield transfer bay, where the massive Ice Explorer awaits. This specially designed vehicle takes you deep onto the Athabasca Glacier, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to step onto ancient ice. Feel the crisp air, marvel at the stunning landscape, and capture breathtaking photos. 2-hour experience—admission not included.

   · 1 h 30 min· Admission not included

How to use your ticket

Please notify your order number or invoice number upon payment. Present your receipt and voucher upon check-in. Please arrive at the starting point 5-10 mins before departure time. Know Before You Go 1. The maximal waiting time for any late passengers is 10 minutes beyond the meeting time announced by the Tour Guide. While JUPITER LEGEND Corporation makes every effort to provide on-time service, it does not guarantee to arrive at or depart from any point.as a specific time, which may be affected by any number of factors including weather, traffic, strikes, government shutdowns, war or terrorist attacks, or mechanical prob- lems. JUPITER LEGEND Corporation is not liable for any inconvenience or expense caused as a result of such a delay, not liable for the expense of connecting air or train or bus service missed as a result of a delay and not liable for any other travel expense caused as a result of a delay. 2. JUPITER LEGEND Corporation and Ctour Holiday reserve the right, when operating conditions require, transferring passengers from one vehicle to another en route. 3. The following documents are recommended to make your check-in process smooth: A valid photo ID is required to board the bus; We recommend you bring a copy of the email confirmation to board the bus. 4. Gift items in the itinerary that cannot be given away due to force majeure factors such as traffic and weather conditions or personal reasons may be subject to change. Please understand that the fees will not be refunded. 5. Smoking is prohibited aboard the bus in accordance with Federal law. 6. Pets and animals are not allowed on the vehicle. 7. Emergency contact: (Toll Free) +1(866)585-8747 or +1(212)334-4222.

Meeting point

What to know before you go

• Infants must sit on an adult's lap.
• Public transport is available nearby.
• Prams or strollers are permitted for babies and young children.
• The activity is suitable for all fitness levels.
• Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult, and pregnant women can only participate if they are not more than 24 weeks pregnant by the end of the trip.
• City Passes and personal tickets are not accepted; entry and meal prices may change without notice.
• Please provide accurate contact details and flight information for travel arrangements.
• Any early departure from the group must be reported to the guide and signed via an agreement, with no refund possible.
• The itinerary may be adapted or an attraction replaced by an equivalent one in case of unforeseen closure.
• The Ice Explorer experience must be booked in advance as no tickets are sold on-site.
• The guide may modify the itinerary based on weather or traffic conditions.
• Terms and conditions are subject to update.
• It is strongly recommended to book Ice Explorer tickets via the included option, as they sell out quickly.
• The total duration varies between 8 and 11 hours depending on the pick-up point, with longer travel times from Calgary.
• Gifts provided during the tour may be modified due to unforeseen circumstances.
• The activity is limited to a maximum of 55 participants.
• Confirmation is immediate, except for bookings made less than 48 hours before departure.

Travelers

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation for a full refund at least 24 hours before departure.

• No refund is possible for cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure.
• The activity may be cancelled due to bad weather or insufficient participants.

Who is it for?

• Families with infants
• People of all fitness levels
• Travellers staying in Calgary, Canmore, or Banff
• English speakers (guide speaks English)

What makes it different

• Flexible pick-up across three different sites (Calgary, Canmore, Banff)
• Option to include Athabasca Glacier access via the Ice Explorer Snowcoach
• Ice cleats provided in winter

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

Product code: 132218P428

Activity offered by Jupiter Legend Corporation via Viator.