Shuttle to Columbia Icefield from Banff: four glaciers and lakes

Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake's turquoise water, Peyto Lake's teardrop shape, and a walk across ancient ice

A shared shuttle from Banff, Calgary or Canmore to Columbia Icefield in Banff National Park, with stops at three landmark lakes and a glacier. The driver handles the route while you watch the Canadian Rockies unfold; the itinerary includes time on the ice at Columbia Icefield and views from Bow Summit. Pickup location is fixed by your choice of departure city, and the operator sends a reminder the day before with any timing adjustments.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Columbia Icefield and Lakes

• Visit Crowfoot Glacier
• Enjoy Bow Lake scenery
• View Peyto Lake from Bow Summit
• Walk on Columbia Icefield and Skywalk

The Experience

The shuttle leaves from your chosen city—Banff, Calgary or Canmore—and follows the Icefields Parkway north into the mountains. You'll stop at Crowfoot Glacier first, a distinctive landmark shaped by millennia of ice flow, then move on to Bow Lake, where the water reflects the surrounding peaks. Peyto Lake comes next, famous for its turquoise color and wolf-like outline when viewed from Bow Summit. Each stop gives you time to step out, photograph and stand in front of what you came to see.

The day culminates at Columbia Icefield, where you walk on the ancient ice itself—the operator's itinerary mentions the Ice Walking Adventure across the glacier and views from the glass-floored Skywalk high above the valley. The whole journey runs 10 to 12 hours round-trip. You're traveling with other passengers on a shared shuttle, not a private vehicle, which is why the pickup time and location are fixed; the operator will confirm any adjustments the day before departure.

The vehicle is air-conditioned and the driver is included. If you're bringing luggage, a stroller or a wheelchair, let the operator know at booking—there may be an additional charge for extra storage. A live guide speaks English, Chinese or Cantonese depending on the departure you choose. This is a local shuttle service, so you join with other travelers; if you want a private vehicle, contact the operator directly.

What’s included

• Air-conditioned shuttle transportation from your chosen departure city.
• driver for the full route.
• stops at Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake and Columbia Icefield.
• live guide in English, Chinese or Cantonese.
• GST included.

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearby

Operated by Vancouver Journey

Is this one for you?Choose your departure city based on where you're staying—Banff, Calgary or Canmore—since pickup location is fixed and the shuttle leaves at a set time. The shared service means you travel with other passengers and follow a set itinerary, which is what keeps the day organized and the price lower than a private vehicle; if you want flexibility or a private group, contact the operator about alternatives.

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Top questions

What is Peyto Lake actually like when I get there?

Peyto Lake is renowned for its striking turquoise water and distinctive wolf-like shape, best seen from Bow Summit. The stop gives you time to take in the panoramic views and photograph the lake framed by the surrounding Rocky Mountain peaks.

Can I walk on the ice at Columbia Icefield, or just look at it?

The itinerary includes an Ice Walking Adventure where you walk on the ancient glacier itself. The Skywalk, a glass-floored platform, offers views from high above the valley—though note that the Columbia Icefield Adventure Ticket (Snowcoach and Skywalk access) is not included in the shuttle price and must be purchased separately.

How long is the whole day, and when do I get back?

The shuttle runs 10 to 12 hours round-trip from your departure city. Pickup time is fixed based on whether you leave from Banff, Calgary or Canmore, and the operator will confirm the exact time and any adjustments the day before you travel.

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to the pickup point?

Pickup is included from your chosen departure city—Banff, Calgary or Canmore. Public transportation options are available nearby if you need to reach the pickup location, and the operator will send you the exact address and time in your pre-tour reminder.

What happens if I'm bringing luggage or a stroller?

Let the operator know at booking if you're bringing luggage, a stroller, wheelchair or anything requiring extra storage space. There may be an additional charge depending on what you need to bring.

Is a guide included, and what language do they speak?

A live guide is included and speaks English, Chinese or Cantonese. The language available depends on which departure city and date you book; confirm the guide language when you select your option at checkout.