The majestic Athabasca Glacier is located within Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies. This ancient glacier is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Canada and is part of the Columbia Icefield. It is the most accessible glacier in the Canadian Rockies and it is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.
At the Athabasca Glacier you can take a guided glacier tour or hike the 6 km (3.7 miles) to the toe of the glacier. The Glacier Skywalk, a curved glass-floored walkway that suspends visitors over a 1000ft drop, is also a popular attraction.
From the glacier, visitors can take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks and alpine meadows. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and bears.
The Columbia Icefield Centre is the starting point for all glacier tours and has a restaurant, gift shop, and interpretive centre. Here visitors can learn about the icefields, glaciers, and mountain wildlife. There is also an interactive glacier map where visitors can learn about the glacier's features and its history.
Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, which runs from Jasper to Banff. This winding mountain road provides breathtaking views of the mountain peaks, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes.
The Athabasca Glacier is a stunning natural wonder that provides a unique opportunity to explore the Canadian Rockies. Whether you take a guided tour, hike the 6 km to the toe of the glacier, or just take in the views from the glacier skywalk, the Athabasca Glacier is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Highlights of Athabasca Glacier, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada
- Explore the Athabasca Glacier: The Athabasca Glacier is the most accessible glacier in North America. You can explore the glacier up close with a guided tour, or take a walk on the nearby Icefields Skywalk.
- Visit the Columbia Icefield: The Columbia Icefield is one of the largest non-polar icefields in the world, and is the Athabasca Glacier's source of water. You can take a 4x4 Ice Explorer Tour and learn more about the glacier and its surrounding environment.
- Take in the Scenery: The Athabasca Glacier is surrounded by the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, making it the perfect spot to take in some of the most incredible views in Canada.
- Go Hiking: There are plenty of hiking trails in the area, offering visitors the chance to explore the area at their own pace.
- Go Wildlife Watching: The glacier is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and caribou, so keep your eyes peeled for some of Canada's iconic animals.
Athabasca Glacier Ticket Price
The ticket price for the Athabasca Glacier is $26.95 CAD. This price includes access to the Glacier Skywalk, which is a glass-floored observation platform located 280 metres (919 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley. The ticket also includes access to the Glacier Discovery Centre, where visitors can learn more about the glacier and its surrounding ecosystem.
Athabasca Glacier Attraction Packages
- Athabasca Glacier Adventure Tour: This tour is perfect for those looking for an immersive experience in the natural beauty of the Athabasca Glacier. This full-day tour includes pick-up and drop-off in Jasper, a guided tour of the glacier, glacier hiking, and a three course lunch at the Columbia Icefield Centre.
- Athabasca Glacier Ice Explorer Tour: This tour is perfect for those looking to explore the Athabasca Glacier in style. It includes an Ice Explorer tour of the glacier, a guided hike, a three course lunch at the Columbia Icefield Centre, and an exclusive glass-domed vehicle to provide an incredible view of the scenery.
- Athabasca Glacier Heli-Hike Tour: This tour is perfect for thrill seekers looking to experience the glacier from a different perspective. It includes a scenic helicopter ride over the Columbia Icefield, a guided hike on the glacier, and a three course lunch at the Columbia Icefield Centre.
- Athabasca Glacier Ice Climbing Tour: This tour is perfect for those looking for a unique adventure. It includes a guided ice climbing expedition on the Athabasca Glacier, a three course lunch at the Columbia Icefield Centre, and all necessary equipment.
- Athabasca Glacier Snowshoe Tour: This tour is perfect for those looking for a peaceful winter experience. It includes a snowshoe hike on the Athabasca Glacier, a three course lunch at the Columbia Icefield Centre, and all necessary equipment.
Athabasca Glacier Tourist Attractions Locations and Routes
The Athabasca Glacier is a unique and spectacular tourist attraction located in the Columbia Icefield of Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada. It is one of the most accessible glaciers in North America and is a must-see for anyone visiting the Canadian Rockies.
The most popular way to experience the glacier is by taking a guided tour. These tours typically depart from the Icefield Centre, located in the Glacier Discovery Centre at the Columbia Icefield. From there, visitors will board a snow coach for a thrilling ride to the glacier. Once there, the guide will explain the geology and history of the glacier, as well as point out any wildlife that may be present.
For those wanting to explore the glacier on their own, there are several routes available. The most popular route is the Ice Explorer, which takes visitors from the Icefield Centre to the toe of the glacier. Along the way, visitors will be able to get up-close views of the glacier, as well as the surrounding mountains.
Other popular routes include the Snow Coach Tour, which takes visitors to the edge of the glacier, and the Glacier Walk, which takes visitors to the surface of the glacier.
No matter which route visitors choose to take, they are sure to be rewarded with incredible views and a unique experience.
Experience of Visiting Athabasca Glacier Tourist Attractions
Visiting Athabasca Glacier was an amazing experience. The views were incredible, and the glacier looked so majestic. The tour guides were very knowledgeable about the area and gave us lots of interesting facts about the glacier. We were able to walk on the glacier and take many pictures. The air was incredibly fresh and the scenery was breathtaking. We stopped at a lookout point to enjoy the view and take more photos. The tour was very informative and I learned a lot about the Athabasca Glacier. I highly recommend this tour to anyone who hasn’t seen it before. It’s definitely a must-see for anyone visiting the Canadian Rockies!
Travel Tips at Athabasca Glacier Tourist Attractions
- Dress in layers. Temperatures can change quickly on the glacier and it is best to be prepared.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. You will be walking a lot on the glacier and should have the proper footwear for the terrain.
- Bring snacks. There isn’t a lot of food services near the glacier so it is a good idea to bring some snacks and water with you.
- Have a plan. Make sure you know what areas of the glacier you want to visit and how long you want to stay there.
- Don’t wander off the marked trails. Staying on the marked trails will help keep you safe and protect the environment.
- Take lots of pictures. The views from the glacier are stunning, so make sure you capture the moment.
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes. Weather conditions on the glacier can change quickly, so be sure to be prepared for whatever comes your way.
- Be aware of possible hazards. Be aware of the dangers associated with glacier walking, such as falling ice and crevasses.
- Respect the environment. Always dispose of your waste properly and respect the wildlife in the area.
- Have fun! The glacier is an amazing place to explore and have fun, so make sure you make the most out of your visit.