Guided Glacier Hike on The Athabasca with IceWalks

4.9
(351 reviews)
Jasper, Canada

3 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

This will be the highlight of your trip through the Icefields Parkway!

Discover the world of ice with our professional ACMG certified guides. This interpretive hiking tour is perfect for travelers seeking an adventurous and meaningful experience on the lower Athabasca glacier. You will see deep crevasses, waterfalls that cascade into the depths of the ice, and learn about the formation of glaciers and how they shape the landscape. Enjoy spectacular views of the icefall and the surrounding mountain peaks.

Tours depart daily at 9:45am and 2:00pm, boarding time is 20 minutes prior to the departure time. Don't be late or you will miss your tour!

Considered moderate difficulty with some short, steep sections of trail to approach the glacier and uneven ground. You should be able to hike 5km (3 miles) on uneven ground in order to do the tour.

Tours are family friendly. Bring your own snacks & warm layers - we supply all other gear required to comfortably explore the glacier.

What's Included

Rain coat & waterproof pants can be borrowed for no cost
You will be provided micro-spikes (crampons for added traction on the ice) If you don't have your own: Rain gear, hiking boots, gloves, and hat
Warm layers - bring your own insulating layer
Snacks

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Arrive 20 minutes prior to your departure. Meet in the West parking lot of the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. Look for the white vans with IceWalks logo as you pull off the highway. From there you will be shuttled a short distance to the trailhead.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Athabasca Glacier

    IceWalks' ACMG certified guides will meet you in the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre parking lot and gear you up for an unforgettable 3 hour interpretive glacier adventure. You will be shuttled a short distance to the trailhead. This 5 km roundtrip walking tour will take you onto the Athabasca Glacier and into the incredible landscape that is the Canadian Rockies. You will learn the rich history of the glacier and you will have spectacular views of the glaciated mountains. You will learn about and explore the many incredible ice formations on the glacier, which include: crevasses, mill wells (waterfalls into the depths of the ice), meltwater streams, and icefalls (from a safe distance). This will be the highlight of your trip on the Icefields Parkway. The pictures you take will capture the memories of a lifetime. No technical climbing experience required! Our tours are moderate in difficulty, suitable for young children who enjoy hiking and active seniors.

    3 hours Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by IceWalks

Tags

Hiking Tours
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Half-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Small Group
Adventure Tours
Viator Experience Award 2023
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Curated Catalog

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 351 351 reviews
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