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The Columbia Icefield Skywalk in photos - is it worth it?
Updated: Jun 17
A clear glass platform will separate you from the terrain of the Sunwapta Valley 280 metres below your feet as you admire the incredible view from the Skywalk at Jasper. This one kilometre walkway offers fossils, waterfall views and the stunning snow topped peaks of the Canadian Rockies in this glorious part of Canada.
Read on for our photo highlights, how to get here, an exclusive offer from Klook, and our experience rating.
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Columbia Icefield Skywalk in photos (and video)
There really is no denying that the Skywalk was a memorable experience for the incredible viewpoint it offers (and of course the awesome opportunities the Columbia Icefield Skywalk offers for photos). But when we weigh up the cost, is it really something you should consider? Lets take a look...
We were staying at the Glacier Ice Field Lodge as our main intent was to see the incredible Athabasca Glacier - more on this here. When we arrived at the hotel we were offered the package that included the Skywalk and thought we may as well take both.
We took a short shuttle bus ride early in the morning and were accompanied by a guide and a few other guests. We were sure to take our coats too... it was a little chilly outside and very windy!
It is hard not to get excited about the Skywalk as it is pretty spectacular; it is a true feat of engineering in the way it juts out from the mountainside. It really affords one the feeling that you are standing in a place you really shouldn't be! On the lead up to the main walkway there are also some exhibits showcasing the history of the valley and the construction of the Skywalk which was quite interesting.
The bridge is semi-circle shaped and the walk itself is around 30m. It is fully accessible for wheelchair users and there is no doubt on safety - the super thick glass is literally bulletproof. If you are worried about heights you may find it a little disconcerting, but so long as you do not look down the incredible views of Mount Athabasca and the Columbia Icefield in the distance should be enough to put you at ease! It is as calming as it is beautiful for sure.
The adrenaline rush of being suspended in the air via clear glass was pretty cool, exhilarating actually. At no point did safety feel like a concern, although when the guide decided it was time to show off the flexible nature of the Skywalk, Jenn took a view point from the safety of the cliff edge section! So what exactly did we do?
The guide asked all of us to line up (there were 8 of us in total) at the peak of the semi circle. We were then to link hands and... jump! Yes jump! As we did the entire platform moved and bounced with us, which was both exciting and of course a little unnerving! The skywalk itself works with a suspension cable cantilever and juts out 35metres from the cliff edge. Its innovative tuned mass damper system gives it the ability to adjust to any movements in the cliff, future proofing it and making for a good party trick for the lovely tour guides to offer their guests!
The award winning design was also created with the landscape in mind; using 'weathering' steel it blends in with the environment as it uses unique technology that actually extends its life span as it rusts. We appreciated this seamless use of working with the valley and the elements, it works with nature and not against it.
Another fascinating part of this experience, and perhaps an extra reason to visit, is the opportunity to admire the local mountain goats. You are very likely to spot them navigating the steep terrain and it is quite a sight! We were captivated by their amazing ability to trot across the inclines seemingly without a care in the world. They are super cute!! Check out the video below...
How to get to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk
You will find the Columbia Icefield Skywalk on Highway 93, Icefields Parkway, Improvement District No. 12, 1 hour south of Jasper and 2.5 hours north of Banff.
⪢ From Banff
If you are coming from Banff, travel 55 km west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) to Lake Louise. Then travel 125 km north from Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 N) to the Columbia Icefield.
⪢ From Jasper
From Jasper, travel 108 km south on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 N) to the Columbia Icefield.
⪢ Parking
There is ample parking in the area and all vehicles must park at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre when visiting the Athabasca Glacier (Columbia Icefield Adventure) or the Skywalk. Visitors to the Skywalk must take the included shuttle from the Icefield Discovery Centre.
Address: Highway 93, Icefields Pkwy, Improvement District No. 12, AB T1L 1J3, Canada
Phone: +1 866-606-6700
Website: banffjaspercollection.com
Tickets: bookings.banffjaspercollection.com
Opening times and the best time to visit
Tours to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk depart every hour from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. Tour times fill quickly and do sell out on some days. We strongly recommend booking your ticket and reserving a tour time before you visit.
The Skywalk is only open from May to October, and is weather dependent.
May 20th – September 30th: 10 AM – 6 PM
October 1st – 9th: 11 AM – 5 PM
How much does the Skywalk cost?
The Skywalk is just a short distance from the Columbia Icefield and you must take the shuttle bus from the Icefield Discovery Centre to access it. There are two options that are available (at time of writing):
⪢ Skywalk admission only:
$39 CAD per adult, $25.35 CAD per child
⪢ Columbia Icefield & Skywalk Combo ticket:
$128 CAD per adult, $83.20 per child
The Skywalk only ticket comes with a tour and audio guide who will share information about the history of the valley and the construction of the Skywalk.
The combo ticket includes the once-in-a-lifetime experience at the Columbia Icefield, accessed by the all-terrain Ice Explorer Snow Coach, along with an incredible walk on the surface of the ancient Athabasca Glacier.
Please note that these prices may vary depending on the season.
Must see places near the Columbia Icefield Skywalk
We walked on the Athabasca Glacier in stunning Jasper, Alberta, Canada. You can too, read this blog to find out how!
From crystal-clear waters to its majestic mountain views, experience the enchanting beauty of this crown jewel destination in Banff, Canada.
All you need to know about one of the world's most beautiful lake destinations in the equally incredible Banff National Park, Alberta Canada
Our Columbia Icefield Skywalk experience rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5
So would we recommend this? The honest answer is yes! It is typically placed in a combo package with either a gondola ride or Ice Explorer Glacier Walk anyway; coupled together it is totally worth it. It is hard not to be swept away by the sheer scale and awe of the valley and of course, it is perfect for all of you photographers and videographers out there!
We also stayed at the superb Glacier Ice Field lodge which sits at the foot of the Athabasca Glacier. It offers excellent service and incredible views - we thoroughly enjoyed the night we spent there! We would highly recommend it, although you will find other (more affordable) options locally too.
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Your FREE interactive map of Canada
Check out all of the places we visited in Canada courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more.
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Explore Canada with special offers from Klook
Klook offers a good variety of tours to help you experience the best of Canada. Whether you're looking for a Niagara Falls experience, a private tour of beautiful Banff, or a day trip to Lake Louise, Klook has something to offer.
In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Canada. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience.
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