BANFF BUS TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Along the Icefields Parkway: A Day From Jasper Across Glaciers, Waterfalls and Sapphire Lakes
An 8– to 9‑hour small‑group journey between Jasper and Lake Louise/Banff that includes scenic photo stops and a seasonal Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier.
Along the Icefields Parkway: A Day From Jasper Across Glaciers, Waterfalls and Sapphire Lakes.
This small‑group bus tour traces one of the world’s most dramatic highway corridors, the Icefields Parkway, linking Jasper with Lake Louise, Banff or Canmore and stopping at towering waterfalls, glacier viewpoints and alpine lakes along the way.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Columbia Icefield & Athabasca Glacier
On summer departures the tour pauses at the Columbia Icefield for the Columbia Icefield Adventure: a roughly two‑hour stop that includes boarding a specialized Ice Explorer that travels onto the Athabasca Glacier.
Athabasca & Tangle Creek Falls
Frequent photo stops bring you close to Athabasca Falls and Tangle Creek Falls, dramatic cascades that punctuate the drive and offer short walks and viewpoints for photography.
Peyto Lake, Bow Lake and Lake Louise
The route visits iconic high‑alpine viewpoints—Peyto Lake and Bow Lake—and culminates at Lake Louise (with drop‑off also available in Banff or Canmore), offering the classic turquoise lakes and mountain backdrops of the region.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Expect a full day on the road—roughly eight to nine hours—moving at a photographer’s pace with repeated stops for short walks, viewpoints and a seasonal glacier excursion; guides handle navigation and narration while you step out to photograph waterfalls, sweeping icefields and turquoise lakes.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The full experience runs approximately 8 to 9 hours.
The tour begins in Jasper; guides will pick you up from your chosen Jasper location.
The Columbia Icefield Adventure onto the Athabasca Glacier is included on tours between May 3 and October 13; outside those dates the glacier ride is not part of the itinerary.
Bring an extra layer—mountain weather is unpredictable and temperatures can vary significantly between stops. If you will step onto the glacier, be prepared for winter‑like, cold conditions while on the ice. Also bring any luggage you need for your onward plans; drop‑off locations vary.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Can I join the tour in one place and end in another?
Yes. The tour starts in Jasper and ends in Lake Louise, Banff or Canmore; return transport to your starting point is not provided, so bring your luggage with you.
When is the Columbia Icefield Adventure included?
The Columbia Icefield Adventure onto the Athabasca Glacier is included on tours between May 3 and October 13.
Is the Columbia Icefield Skywalk included?
No. The Skywalk is not included; adding it would extend the tour to more than ten hours and is not part of this itinerary.
How long is the stop for the Columbia Icefield Adventure?
The Columbia Icefield stop takes approximately two hours, including the Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier.
Is lunch included on the tour?
Meals are not included; the itinerary includes a stop at either Saskatchewan River Crossing or the Icefield Information Centre where you can purchase lunch.
Will I see wildlife on the tour?
There is always a chance of wildlife sightings between Jasper and Banff, but sightings are not guaranteed.