Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
Experience ancient ice on the Athabasca Glacier and breathtaking views from the Skywalk at this iconic Canadian Rockies hub.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temps.
Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience ancient ice on the Athabasca Glacier and breathtaking views from the Skywalk at this iconic Canadian Rockies hub.
"An unforgettable adventure on ancient ice with views that make you feel tiny yet so alive."
Book the Ice Odyssey Tour
For a deeper glacier experience & better photos, consider the new Ice Odyssey tour. Smaller groups!
Layer Up!
It's much colder on the glacier. Bring a warm jacket, even in summer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Athabasca Glacier Ice Explorer
Columbia Icefield
Ride a massive Ice Explorer vehicle onto the ancient Athabasca Glacier. Feel the ice beneath your feet!
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Columbia Icefield
Walk on a glass-floored observation platform suspended 918 feet above the Sunwapta Valley. Thrilling views!
Glacier Discovery Centre
Columbia Icefield
Learn about the icefield's history, grab a coffee at Canada's highest Starbucks, and shop for souvenirs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Peak Season
+1Dress for Glacier Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book the Ice Odyssey Tour
For a deeper glacier experience & better photos, consider the new Ice Odyssey tour. Smaller groups!
Layer Up!
It's much colder on the glacier. Bring a warm jacket, even in summer.
Shuttle Bus Strategy
Take the first shuttle of the day to avoid massive crowds on the Skywalk.
Stay Connected (or Not)
Phone coverage is spotty. Download maps and info beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book the Ice Odyssey Tour
For a deeper glacier experience & better photos, consider the new Ice Odyssey tour. Smaller groups!
Layer Up!
It's much colder on the glacier. Bring a warm jacket, even in summer.
Shuttle Bus Strategy
Take the first shuttle of the day to avoid massive crowds on the Skywalk.
Stay Connected (or Not)
Phone coverage is spotty. Download maps and info beforehand.
Fuel Up Beforehand
Gas stations are scarce and expensive on the Icefields Parkway.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the awe-inspiring scale of the Athabasca Glacier and the unique thrill of the Skywalk. The Ice Explorer tour is a highlight for many, offering an unforgettable experience on ancient ice. Some find the tours pricey and note that crowds can detract from the experience during peak times.
"If your budget allows, I highly recommend booking the newly launched 2025 glacier tour, Ice Odyssey. There are several reasons for this:
1. If it’s your first time visiting the glacier — and very likely your only visit — this tour offers a much deeper experience. You’ll be able to stay near the glacier for almost two hours, and since the group size is smaller, you’ll have more opportunities to interact with the guide.
2. Because this tour takes you to a more remote part of the glacier, the scenery you’ll see is completely different. The ice surface is much cleaner, and you’ll have better conditions for photography in terms of timing, angles, and locations compared to the standard tours.
3. If you’re lucky, like I was, and you’re the only one who booked that time slot, you’ll get to enjoy an unforgettable private glacier experience. The driver and guide will be dedicated entirely to you, and you can even sit in the front passenger seat, which is a completely different perspective.
Of course, don’t forget to try the pure glacier water — but don’t drink too much!"
Weixuan Sun
"Jasper National Park: A Timeless Masterpiece
Jasper National Park isn't just a destination; it's a profound experience that keeps calling me back. I've been here more than seven times, and each visit offers a completely unique and unforgettable impression.
The highlight for me is the Icefields Parkway, arguably the most scenic drive in the world. This isn't just a road—it's a journey through a living, breathing landscape of ancient glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks. The grandeur of the Athabasca Glacier, the serene beauty of Maligne Lake, and the majestic wildlife sightings are simply breathtaking.
What makes Jasper so special is its dynamic nature. A summer trip reveals lush, vibrant landscapes and the full force of its waterfalls, while a winter visit transforms the park into a serene, snow-covered wonderland. The light changes, the seasons shift, and with each return, a new detail or a different view captures my heart. Whether it's the thrill of spotting a wild elk or simply standing in awe of the towering mountains, Jasper reminds me of the sheer power and beauty of nature.
This place is more than just a beautiful park; it’s a source of inspiration and renewal. If you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime journey that will stay with you forever, Jasper National Park is it. I promise you, it's worth every visit."
James Brouch
"You should be prepared to lose phone coverage over 200km and be aware to have enough fuel as the nearest gas station was charging above average around 1$ extra.
Other than that enjoy the road as it is amazing the crystal phyerouzi color are wonderful
Get a jacket as the glacier area are colder"
Naaoom Ibrahim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is located on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) between Banff and Jasper National Parks. It's a scenic 2.5-hour drive from Banff and about 1 hour from Jasper. Many visitors drive their own vehicle or join a tour that includes transportation.
The drive from Banff is approximately 2.5 hours, and from Jasper, it's about 1 hour. The Icefields Parkway itself is incredibly scenic, so many travelers consider the drive part of the experience.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided tours from Banff and Jasper that include transportation to the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and its attractions.
Driving yourself offers the most flexibility to stop at viewpoints. However, guided tours provide commentary and handle navigation. Be aware that gas stations are few and far between, so fill up your tank before you start.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Discovery Centre is free. However, tours like the Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier and the Skywalk have separate admission fees, typically around $35-$45 CAD per person for each. Booking packages can offer savings.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets for the Ice Explorer and Skywalk tours in advance, especially during peak season (summer), as they can sell out. You can book online through the official Parks Canada or tour operator websites.
The Columbia Icefield Adventure typically includes the Ice Explorer tour onto the Athabasca Glacier and a shuttle to the Skywalk. Check the specific package details when booking.
Yes, combo tickets that include both the Ice Explorer and the Skywalk are often available and can be more cost-effective than purchasing them separately.
Operating hours vary seasonally, but tours generally run from late spring through early fall. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours and operating dates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Discovery Centre offers exhibits on the icefield's history, a gift shop, restaurants, and the highest Starbucks in Canada. It's also the hub for booking and boarding tours to the Athabasca Glacier and Skywalk.
Yes, you can walk on the Athabasca Glacier via the Ice Explorer tour, which takes you onto the ice. There's also a short trail from the Discovery Centre for a closer look, but the Ice Explorer provides a more immersive experience.
The Skywalk is a glass-floored observation platform extending over the Sunwapta Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. It's a unique perspective and a thrilling experience.
Yes, the Ice Explorer tour and the Discovery Centre are generally suitable for families. The Skywalk may be more challenging for very young children due to heights, but many families enjoy it.
A visit including the Ice Explorer and Skywalk tours can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, depending on wait times for shuttles and tours. Allow ample time for the scenic drive as well.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Discovery Centre has two restaurants, Altitude and another unnamed eatery, offering meals. There's also a Starbucks, noted as the highest elevation Starbucks in Canada, for coffee and snacks.
You can find a range of options from quick snacks and coffee at Starbucks to more substantial meals at the on-site restaurants.
While there are dining facilities, bringing your own snacks and water is always a good idea, especially for longer drives on the Icefields Parkway.
The Discovery Centre has a patio with glacier views, which can be a pleasant spot to enjoy a packed lunch.
Dining at attractions within national parks can be on the pricier side due to their remote locations. It's advisable to check menus or expect higher-than-average prices.
📸 📸 Photography
The Athabasca Glacier itself, the panoramic views from the Skywalk, and the dramatic mountain landscapes along the Icefields Parkway are prime photo spots. The Discovery Centre's patio also offers great glacier views.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds. The 'golden hour' before sunset can be particularly stunning for landscape photography.
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the glacier and surrounding mountains. Be mindful of the weather, as conditions can change rapidly.
Yes, it's safe to take photos on the Skywalk. Just be aware of other visitors and hold onto your camera securely, especially if it's windy.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check Parks Canada regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Skywalk's height might be daunting for some very young children, many families find it an exciting adventure. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as dining options can be limited and pricey. Ensure everyone has warm layers, as the weather can change quickly.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. The Ice Odyssey tour can offer more secluded spots and unique angles on the glacier. Remember to pack a wide-angle lens and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
🚗 Road Trippers on the Icefields Parkway
Plan for at least half a day to fully enjoy the Ice Explorer and Skywalk. Be mindful of fuel; gas stations are scarce and expensive. Download offline maps as cell service is unreliable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Athabasca Glacier
For those seeking a more in-depth experience, the Ice Odyssey tour is a newer option that ventures to a more remote part of the glacier. This tour offers a deeper dive into the glacial environment, with more time spent on the ice and opportunities for better photography due to less crowded conditions and unique angles.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the ice can be slippery. Even on a warm day, the temperature on the glacier is significantly colder, so warm layers are essential.
The Thrill of the Columbia Icefield Skywalk
+1Access to the Skywalk is via a shuttle bus that departs from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. The ride itself offers more scenic views. Visitors are advised to bring a light jacket, as the wind at the Skywalk can be quite chilly, even when it's pleasant at the centre.
While the views are spectacular, some visitors note that it can get crowded, especially during peak times. Taking one of the first or last shuttles of the day can help mitigate this. The experience is generally considered safe and accessible, providing a unique way to appreciate the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies.
The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre Hub
+1Beyond the educational and refreshment options, the centre houses a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs to remember your trip. It's also where you'll check in for your tours and board the shuttle buses that transport you to the Athabasca Glacier and the Skywalk. The patio area offers stunning, unobstructed views of the icefield, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the scenery.
For those looking to extend their stay, the Glacier View Lodge is located on the third floor of the Discovery Centre, offering comfortable accommodation with spectacular mountain and icefield vistas. This makes the Discovery Centre not just a starting point, but a comprehensive base for exploring the Columbia Icefield region.
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