On the Edge of Time: Standing on the Columbia Icefield
Walk on ancient ice, learn the moving history of the Rockies, and plan a low-impact visit to one of North America's largest icefields.
You arrive along the Icefields Parkway with a low sun slanting across serrated peaks and a wind that sharpens every outline. From the parking lot the Columbia Icefield looks like an honest thing: a vast, luminous slab of ice pooling at the heads of mountains. The sound is elemental—ice groaning, wind talking through the rocks—and when you step onto the boardwalk toward the Glacier Skywalk or climb into an Ice Explorer to ride out onto the blue-tinged crevasses, the scale becomes intimate. You are small. The landscape is not.
Trail Wisdom
Book tours in advance
Ice Explorer rides and Skywalk tickets sell out in July–August; reserve morning slots for best light and calmer winds.
Layer for alpine sun and wind
Pack a windproof shell plus insulating mid-layer—temperatures can swing dramatically, even in summer.
Respect glacier boundaries
Never walk onto the glacier without a certified guide and proper gear—crevasses and moulins are hazardous.
Watch for wildlife on the Parkway
Drive slowly and allow extra time—elk and mountain goats frequent pullouts and road shoulders.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mistaya Canyon short walk (down-valley, dramatic narrows)
- •Wilcox Pass viewpoint—alpine meadows and views of Athabasca Glacier
Wildlife
Mountain goats, Elk
Conservation Note
Parks Canada monitors glacier change and manages visitor access; choosing certified guides and staying on boardwalks helps protect fragile periglacial environments.
The Icefields Parkway and surrounding area were developed in the early 20th century as part of national park expansion; the Icefield has been studied by glaciologists for decades to monitor retreat.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Snowmelt viewing, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Unstable weather, Limited road services
Late spring shows active melt and dramatic runoff; some services open only gradually and patches of snow can persist on higher trails.
summer
Best for: Full tour operations, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Peak crowds, Higher temperatures increase melt activity
Summer gives the most reliable access to Ice Explorer rides and Skywalk; book early and plan for busy parking.
fall
Best for: Crisp light for photography, Fewer tourists
Challenges: Early snowstorms, Reduced tour frequency
Autumn brings clear, cool days and excellent color contrasts, but operators may reduce schedules as snow returns.
winter
Best for: Snow-covered sculptural landscapes, Quiet solitude
Challenges: Limited or no glacier access, Severe cold and road closures
Winter transforms the Icefield into a remote, icy arena; most commercial glacier experiences pause and the Parkway can be hazardous.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Provides ankle support and traction on uneven moraine and wet boardwalks.
Windproof shellEssential
Protects against gusts and the rapid temperature drops common at high elevation.
Sunglasses & sunscreenEssential
Sun reflects strongly off ice; UV protection reduces glare and sunburn risk.
Crampons (provided for guided hikes) or microspikes
Guides supply technical crampons for glacier travel; microspikes help on icy approaches.
Common Questions
How do I reach the Columbia Icefield?
Drive the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) between Lake Louise and Jasper; the Icefield Centre and main parking are clearly signed. Scheduled tours run from Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper.
Can I walk on the glacier without a guide?
No—walking beyond the marked visitor areas onto the glacier should only be done with a certified guide and proper equipment due to crevasses and unstable sections.
What is the best time of day to visit?
Morning light often gives the best contrast and calmer winds; afternoon can have more melt activity and variable weather.
Are children allowed on the Ice Explorer or Skywalk?
Yes—operators typically allow children but check age restrictions and book seats in advance; parents should ensure children are dressed warmly.
Is there food or lodging at the Icefield location?
The Columbia Icefield Centre offers restrooms, a café, and basic services; full lodging is in nearby towns such as Lake Louise and Jasper.
How much time should I allocate for a visit?
Plan at least half a day to combine an Ice Explorer ride and the Skywalk; a full day lets you add a guided hike and scenic stops along the Parkway.
What to Pack
Windproof jacket, sturdy boots, high-SPF sunscreen, water (at least 1–2 L) — protection from wind, traction, sun, and hydration are essential.
Did You Know
The Columbia Icefield is the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies, covering roughly 325 square kilometres, and feeds multiple major outlet glaciers including the Athabasca Glacier.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book Ice Explorer and Skywalk tickets in advance; 2) Fuel up in Lake Louise or Jasper—services are limited on the Parkway; 3) Allow extra travel time for wildlife and roadside viewpoints; 4) Bring a paper map or offline GPS—cell service is spotty.
Local Flavor
Mountain lodges in Banff and Jasper serve hearty alpine fare—bison, elk, and locally sourced trout—while interpretive talks and Parks Canada exhibits connect visitors to the natural history of the Icefields.
Logistics Snapshot
Access: Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). Park entry: Parks Canada fees apply. Main experiences: Ice Explorer, Glacier Skywalk, guided glacier hikes. Best time: July–September. Drive time from Banff: ~2–3 hours.
Sustainability Note
Support certified local guides, stay on marked paths, and avoid bringing single-use plastics; collective low-impact choices help protect rapidly changing glacial environments.