4.7(38 reviews)
Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake & Bow Lake Day Trip
FromCA$131.1
8 hours – 11 hours
Calgary, Canada
About this activity
Discover the natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies on a guided day trip to Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake, including transportation and bottled water.
Highlights
- Explore the stunning Columbia Icefield
- Marvel at the turquoise waters of Peyto Lake
- Experience the breathtaking Bow Lake
- Enjoy a guided tour with a professional driver
- Travel in comfortable, well-equipped vehicles
Full description
Join us for an unforgettable day trip through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Our professional driver-guide will lead you to the majestic Columbia Icefield, where you'll witness the awe-inspiring Athabasca Glacier. Next, we'll visit the iconic Peyto Lake, renowned for its wolf-head shape and vibrant turquoise waters. The journey continues to Bow Lake, a serene spot perfect for relaxation and photography. Throughout the day, you'll travel in comfortable, well-equipped vehicles, ensuring a pleasant experience. Bottled water is provided to keep you refreshed. Please note that meals are not included, so plan accordingly. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Rockies!
Included / Excluded
- Professional driver and guide
- Comfortable, well-equipped vehicles
- Pick-up and drop-off at multiple locations
- Bottled water
- Meals
Itinerary
1
Pass by: 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.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Pass by: 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
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
Pass by: 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?
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4
Pass by: 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!
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
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!
Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6
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!
Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7
The Crossing (lunch at own expense, 45 minutes)
Duration: 45 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8
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.
Duration: 1h 30mAdmission: NO
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Meals are not included; please bring your own or plan to purchase along the way.
- This tour involves moderate walking; ensure you're comfortable with this level of activity.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly to ensure comfort during the trip.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and varying weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
- Carry a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infants Required On Laps
- Easy Public Transport
- Stroller Accessible
Good to know
- Customers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by at least one adult. Pregnant women may join the tour only if they are no more than 24 weeks pregnant by the end of the trip.
- City Passes or personal attraction tickets are not accepted. Admission and meal prices are subject to change without prior notice. Refunds will not be issued for price decreases, and price matching for attraction tickets is not available.
- Please provide accurate information, including your full name, contact details (preferably a mobile phone number), and flight information. Inaccuracies may affect your travel arrangements, and any losses resulting from incorrect information will be the responsibility of the traveler.
- If you choose to leave the group early, please inform the tour guide in advance and sign a departure agreement. No refunds will be provided for any unused portions of the tour.
- If a scheduled attraction is closed due to public holidays or other unforeseen circumstances, we will adjust the itinerary accordingly and/or substitute it with an equivalent attraction to maintain the quality of the Tour.
- 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.
- The tour itinerary may be modified by the guide due to weather, traffic, or other unforeseen circumstances to ensure a smooth trip.
- These terms may be updated from time to time. Please refer to the product website for the most current information before booking. The tour provider is not liable for any incidental or consequential damages, except as required by laws.
- It is highly recommended to book Ice Explorer tickets when booking with "Tour with Admission" option, as they sell out far in advance.
- Please Note: The total duration of the tour (8–11 hours) may vary depending on your pick-up and drop-off locations.Passengers picked up from Calgary may experience longer travel times compared to those boarding in Banff.
- Gifts provided during the tour are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions. No refunds will be issued for any changes to the gifts.
Traveler reviews
4.738 reviews
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The Ice Explorer...
The Ice Explorer Snowcoach experience was amazing and definitely a must-do! Riding on the glacier was such a unique experience with incredible views. Our tour guide was also very friendly and attentive throughout the trip. Highly recommend!
yan_YMay 21, 2026VIATOR
Amazing experience
I took the ice explorer ride on the glacier was definitely the highlight of the trip. Guide was funny and well organized, making sure our tour stayed on schedule while still having enough time to enjoy each stop. This is the place that you MUST and REALLY REALLY have to see in person. Highly recommend this tour if you're visiting the Canadian Rockies!
Candy_PMay 15, 2026VIATOR
Great
Took the bus up from Calgary and honestly the Icefields Parkway alone was worth it, the views never stop. Peyto Lake's color is unreal in person, way more vivid than any photo I've seen. Bow Lake was super peaceful and we got enough time to walk around. Upgraded to the Ice Explorer on the glacier which I'd recommend, pretty wild standing on actual ice that thick. Long day but didn't feel dragged out, guide kept it moving without rushing the good stops.
JIANAN_YMay 11, 2026VIATOR
Loved Every Moment of Our Tour!
We had an amazing experience with our tour guide, Mr. Hao. He’s very experienced and knowledgeable, always providing clear instructions on the trip agenda and offering support whenever we need it. Even though today’s trip had a 9-hour bus ride, we didn’t feel bored at all. Highly recommend Mr. Hao if you’re coming to Calgary for a guided tour!
C7694KKsonyasOct 13, 2025TRIPADVISOR
An extraordinary experience.
Lake Peto lies still in the Rocky Mountains, where the water is crushed jasper, and a serenity breaks out between the valleys of the Ten Peaks. Walking to the Columbia Icefield, Perpetual Ice glows blue beneath your feet as if you were hearing the slow breathing of the Earth. This journey, from the gentleness of the lake to the verdantness of the ice sheet, is just two expressions between the fingers of nature. In between, man is as small as dust, but blessed to witness this eternal beauty.
P1396OQaaronwOct 13, 2025TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
Customers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by at least one adult. Pregnant women may join the tour only if they are no more than 24 weeks pregnant by the end of the trip.
City Passes or personal attraction tickets are not accepted. Admission and meal prices are subject to change without prior notice. Refunds will not be issued for price decreases, and price matching for attraction tickets is not available.
Please provide accurate information, including your full name, contact details (preferably a mobile phone number), and flight information. Inaccuracies may affect your travel arrangements, and any losses resulting from incorrect information will be the responsibility of the traveler.
If you choose to leave the group early, please inform the tour guide in advance and sign a departure agreement. No refunds will be provided for any unused portions of the tour.
If a scheduled attraction is closed due to public holidays or other unforeseen circumstances, we will adjust the itinerary accordingly and/or substitute it with an equivalent attraction to maintain the quality of the Tour.
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.
The tour itinerary may be modified by the guide due to weather, traffic, or other unforeseen circumstances to ensure a smooth trip.
These terms may be updated from time to time. Please refer to the product website for the most current information before booking. The tour provider is not liable for any incidental or consequential damages, except as required by laws.
It is highly recommended to book Ice Explorer tickets when booking with "Tour with Admission" option, as they sell out far in advance.
Please Note: The total duration of the tour (8–11 hours) may vary depending on your pick-up and drop-off locations.Passengers picked up from Calgary may experience longer travel times compared to those boarding in Banff.
Gifts provided during the tour are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions. No refunds will be issued for any changes to the gifts.