Glacier Skywalk
A glass-floored walkway suspended 280m above the Sunwapta Valley, offering unparalleled views of glaciers and mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Glacier Skywalk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A glass-floored walkway suspended 280m above the Sunwapta Valley, offering unparalleled views of glaciers and mountains.
"The captivating Colombian sky walk offers breathtaking panoramic views and an unforgettable experience."
👟 Grippy Shoes are Enough
You don't need special snowshoes; good running shoes with grip are sufficient for the packed snow.
📸 Capture the Views
The glass floor offers unique photo ops, but don't forget to look around for wider scenic shots!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Glass-Floored Skywalk
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Walk on a transparent floor 280m above the valley for unparalleled, thrilling views of the Sunwapta Valley.
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Columbia Icefield Parkway
Experience breathtaking, sweeping views of glaciers, mountains, and valleys along the scenic route.
Athabasca Glacier & River
Near Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
Get up close to the ancient Athabasca Glacier and explore the powerful Athabasca River.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Dress for the Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Grippy Shoes are Enough
You don't need special snowshoes; good running shoes with grip are sufficient for the packed snow.
📸 Capture the Views
The glass floor offers unique photo ops, but don't forget to look around for wider scenic shots!
⏰ Allow Extra Time
While tickets are for an hour, you can stay longer and catch a later bus back.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if you plan on hiking around the glacier.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Grippy Shoes are Enough
You don't need special snowshoes; good running shoes with grip are sufficient for the packed snow.
📸 Capture the Views
The glass floor offers unique photo ops, but don't forget to look around for wider scenic shots!
⏰ Allow Extra Time
While tickets are for an hour, you can stay longer and catch a later bus back.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if you plan on hiking around the glacier.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Glacier Skywalk for its breathtaking panoramic views and unique glass-floored experience, calling it a top wonder in Canada. While some find it a bit touristy and perhaps overrated compared to other viewpoints, the thrill and stunning scenery make it a memorable and worthwhile stop on the Icefields Parkway.
"We visited on a picture Aug 21st. A perfect day. Definitely worth the time and effort to travel there. Maybe one of the top wonders in Canada. Pictures cannot do justice in capturing the prestine beauty and amazing views. Our tour bus driver was very informative, while our tickets were for approximately 1 hour, but you can stay longer and catch another one of the regular return buses. The Glass bridge is a special treat and is kept very clean to maximize the views. There are a couple of restaurants with decent food and would suggest you visit the ice fields and Athabasca river, Cross the street from the main building. That part is a short drive and you can walk up to the glacier. All in all, we had a wonderful experience and worth seeing again."
Andy Ambrozic
"The captivating Colombian sky walk offers breathtaking panoramic views. It gracefully suspends visitors amidst the vibrant natural beauty of the area. The thrill of walking high above the landscape creates an unforgettable experience. This unique attraction allows one to connect with nature from a new perspective. Exploring the sky walk is a remarkable way to appreciate the stunning surroundings."
Tiju Chacko
"We went with Brewster, which was amazing. The actual skywalk was really neat, but a believe a bit overrated. The views are cool, but there even better ones where you can just pull off the motorway. A touristy and busy place mostly meant for photos, but really neat nonetheless."
James Newell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Glacier Skywalk is accessed via the Columbia Icefield Adventure. You'll typically park at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and take a shuttle bus to the skywalk.
The Icefields Parkway is generally open year-round, but conditions can vary significantly in winter. Always check road conditions before traveling.
No, you cannot drive directly to the Glacier Skywalk. Access is via a dedicated shuttle bus from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.
The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is located on Highway 93, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the Columbia Icefield Skywalk can vary. It's often bundled with the Ice Explorer glacier tour. Check the official Brewster website for current pricing and packages.
It is highly recommended to book your Columbia Icefield Skywalk tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
A ticket typically includes the shuttle bus ride to the skywalk and access to the glass-floored observation platform. It's often combined with the Ice Explorer tour.
Operating hours for the Columbia Icefield Skywalk usually align with the summer season, typically from late April to mid-October. Always check the official website for exact times.
Access to the Glacier Skywalk is managed through the Columbia Icefield Adventure, which includes shuttle transportation. You cannot typically walk to it independently.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors describe walking on the glass floor as thrilling, offering stunning panoramic views of the Sunwapta Valley and surrounding glaciers.
Your ticket allows for about an hour, but you can stay longer and catch a later shuttle back. Many visitors spend additional time exploring the nearby Athabasca Glacier.
Yes, restrooms are available near the bus drop-off point before you walk to the skywalk itself.
The shuttle bus and the skywalk itself are designed to be accessible. It's always best to confirm specific accessibility details with the tour operator.
While not guaranteed, you might spot wildlife like bighorn sheep, mountain goats, or even bears in the broader Jasper National Park area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a couple of restaurants at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre offering decent food options.
While there are dining facilities, bringing your own snacks and water is always a good idea, especially for longer excursions.
📸 📸 Photography
The glass floor itself provides unique perspectives. Also, capture the vastness of the valley and the surrounding glaciers from the observation platform.
It can be a bit tricky to get clear shots without reflections, but moving around and using a polarizing filter can help.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and potentially fewer crowds, enhancing photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families:
* Bring snacks and drinks, as options can be limited and pricey.
* Ensure children are supervised closely on the skywalk.
* Consider the Ice Explorer tour for a more hands-on glacier experience that kids often love.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography Tips:
* Visit during the 'golden hours' (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light.
* Experiment with different angles on the glass floor to capture unique shots.
* Don't forget to photograph the stunning scenery along the Icefields Parkway itself.
🚗 Road Trippers on the Icefields Parkway
Road Tripper Advice:
* Book your Skywalk tickets in advance to fit them into your driving schedule.
* Allow plenty of time for the Parkway drive, as there are numerous viewpoints and short hikes.
* Combine your Skywalk visit with exploring the Athabasca Glacier.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Columbia Icefield Parkway Experience
Many travelers consider the drive itself a major highlight. You'll pass by iconic spots like Peyto Lake and Bow Lake. It's crucial to allow ample time for this drive, as you'll want to stop often for photos and short walks. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Pro Tip: Consider starting your drive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the Parkway in the soft morning light. Pack snacks and water, as services can be spread out along the route.
Understanding the Glacier Skywalk
The experience is designed to immerse visitors in the dramatic landscape of the Columbia Icefield. Standing on the glass, you get an unobstructed, thrilling view of the valley floor, the Athabasca Glacier, and the surrounding peaks. It's a unique perspective that truly highlights the scale and grandeur of the Canadian Rockies.
While the skywalk itself is the main attraction, the journey there via shuttle bus from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is also part of the experience. Informative commentary is often provided by the bus drivers, adding context to the stunning scenery.
Exploring the Athabasca Glacier
For a more immersive experience, consider the Ice Explorer tour, which takes you directly onto the glacier in a specialized vehicle. This allows you to walk on the ancient ice and learn about its formation and retreat.
Important Note: The Athabasca Glacier is actively retreating due to climate change. It's essential to respect the marked paths and safety guidelines when exploring the glacier area to protect both yourself and the fragile environment.
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