Columbia Icefield

The largest expanse of interconnected glaciers south of the Canadian Arctic, straddling the Banff-Jasper boundary on the Icefields Parkway. Visitors can explore via the Athabasca Glacier or scenic drives showcasing one of Canada's most dramatic landscapes.

Things to do

• Athabasca Glacier Walk — Descend onto the massive Athabasca Glacier on foot to experience the ice up close and witness the dramatic retreat markers showing where the glacier extended decades ago.
• Glacier Skywalk — Step onto a glass-floored observation platform jutting over the Sunwapta Valley 280 metres above the ground for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
• Icefields Parkway Drive — Travel the scenic 230-kilometre highway between Lake Louise and Jasper, stopping at viewpoints for Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and multiple glacier vistas.
• Snowcoach Expedition — Board a specially equipped coach onto the Athabasca Glacier itself to explore crevasses, seracs, and ice formations while learning from expert guides about glacial dynamics.
• Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre — Learn about glaciology, climate change, and the region's geology through interactive exhibits and films at this gateway visitor facility.
• Wilcox Pass Trail Hike — Trek this moderately challenging 4-kilometre trail for unobstructed views of the entire Columbia Icefield and surrounding peaks.
• Bow Lake Photography — Capture reflection shots of Crowfoot Glacier mirrored in the turquoise waters of Bow Lake, a iconic stop along the Parkway.

Food to try

• Rocky Mountain Elk — Regional restaurants serve locally-sourced elk steaks and roasts, a traditional Alberta protein that appears on menus throughout Jasper and Lake Louise.
• Fresh Trout — Local lodges and dining establishments offer pan-seared or grilled trout caught from nearby mountain streams and lakes.
• Bison Burgers — A popular roadside and restaurant staple made from free-ranging Canadian bison, leaner and richer in flavour than beef.
• Saskatoon Berry Pie — Indigenous berry-based dessert featuring wild saskatoon berries native to the Canadian Rockies, often served warm with vanilla ice cream.
• Wild Mushroom Risotto — Fine dining establishments source local wild mushrooms for creamy risotto dishes that complement the alpine setting.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive Early in Peak Season — Summer months (June-September) bring heavy crowds; arriving before 9 AM ensures better parking at trailheads and glacier access areas.
• Respect Glacier Safety Boundaries — Never venture onto glaciers unguided as crevasses and meltwater are hidden hazards; stick to marked paths and official tour operators only.
• Weather Changes Rapidly — Mountain conditions shift dramatically within hours; bring layered clothing and be prepared to alter plans as weather forecasts are unreliable in this alpine zone.
• Indigenous Land Recognition — The area holds deep significance for the Ktunaxa and other First Nations; acknowledge this heritage and support interpretive programs that share their traditional knowledge.