Columbia Icefield, Canada
An Epic Adventure on Ancient Ice
An Epic Adventure on Ancient Ice
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Overview
The Columbia Icefield, a massive expanse of glacial ice straddling the Continental Divide in the Canadian Rockies, is a must-see inland destination for any visitor to Western Canada. Located along the stunning Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper National Parks, it is one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world and one of the most accessible. Its most famous outflow is the Athabasca Glacier, a magnificent, constantly shifting sheet of ice that is thousands of years old.
A visit to the Columbia Icefield is an otherworldly experience, offering a rare opportunity to walk on and touch ancient ice. Beyond the glaciers themselves, the area is home to breathtaking alpine scenery, including towering mountain peaks, dramatic valleys, and the innovative, glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk. This unique blend of natural wonder and thrilling adventure makes it a profound and unforgettable stop on any Canadian Rockies land tour.
Embark on the iconic Ice Explorer adventure, a ride on a massive, specially designed all-terrain vehicle that transports you directly onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier. You will disembark and have the opportunity to walk on and feel the 10,000-year-old ice beneath your feet.
Tip: The temperature on the glacier can be much colder than at the base. Dress in warm layers and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction.
Step out onto the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a cliff-edge glass-floored platform suspended 918 feet (280 meters) above the Sunwapta Valley. This adrenaline-pumping walk offers jaw-dropping, unobstructed views of the glacier-formed valley, waterfalls, and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Tip: Take your time on the Skywalk to fully appreciate the views, and use your phone's camera for a unique perspective of the glass floor below you.
Make the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre your hub for the day. This facility is the starting point for the Ice Explorer and Skywalk tours. It also houses interactive exhibits, a gift shop, and dining options, including the panoramic views from the Altitude restaurant.
Tip: Allow extra time at the Discovery Centre to browse the exhibits that explain the geology and history of the icefield and its role in the ecosystem.
For a more self-guided experience, take the short, well-marked hiking trail to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier. This allows you to get an up-close perspective of the glacier's terminus and witness its retreat over the years.
Tip: Stay on the marked path. The area near the glacier is unstable, and there are hidden crevasses and unpredictable ice falls.
The drive to and from the Icefield along the Icefields Parkway is an excursion in itself. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and even bears (from a safe distance). The scenery is spectacular, with numerous photo stops.
Tip: Use the designated pull-offs for scenic views and wildlife spotting; do not stop on the main road.
Take in the surrounding alpine vistas and pristine glacial lakes. The Icefields Parkway is dotted with incredible sights like Peyto Lake (famous for its turquoise color) and Bow Lake. Even a short excursion offers a taste of this breathtaking wilderness.
Tip: Views are weather-dependent. On a clear day, the colors of the lakes are at their most vibrant, so plan your stops accordingly if you have the flexibility.
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