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The Columbia Icefield Skywalk in Photos – Is It Worth It?
- Jenn & Leon
- May 13, 2022
- 8 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
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.
Travel Resources
Columbia Icefield Skywalk Photo & Video Highlights
There is no denying that the Skywalk was a memorable experience for the incredible viewpoint it offers.
Of course, the awesome photo opportunities the Columbia Icefield Skywalk offers help too.
But when we weigh up the cost, is it something you should consider? Let's 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 we thought we might 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 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 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.
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 viewpoint 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 semicircle. We were then to link hands and... jump! Yes, jump!
The innovative tuned mass damper system of the Skywalk 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 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!
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How to Get to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk
The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is located along Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) between Jasper and Banff in the Canadian Rockies. It’s one of the most scenic drives in the world—and the only way to reach the Skywalk.
By Car (Self-Drive)
● From Jasper: Drive south along Highway 93 for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (105 km)
● From Lake Louise: Drive north on Highway 93 for about 2 hours (125 km)
The Skywalk is 6 km north of the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.
● GPS: 93 Icefields Pkwy, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
● Free public parking is not available at the Skywalk itself—you must park at the Discovery Centre and take the included shuttle.
By Shuttle (From Discovery Centre)
By Tour Package
⪢ Contact Information for Columbia Icefield Skywalk
● Address: Highway 93, Icefields Parkway, Improvement District No. 12, AB T1L 1J3, Canada
● Phone: +1 866-606-6700
● Website: banffjaspercollection.com
● Tickets: bookings.banffjaspercollection.com
⪢ Easily Find Hotels in Jasper and Beyond
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Jasper hotel deals below to find great rates for an overnight stay.
Ticket Prices, Opening Times & Best Time to Visit
⪢ Ticket Prices
Tickets include admission to the Skywalk and the return shuttle from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.
● Adults (18–64): CAD 32
● Seniors (65+): CAD 29
● Youth (6–17): CAD 16
● Children under 5: Free
● Family Pass (2 adults + 2 youth): CAD 82
● Combo Ticket (Skywalk + Glacier Adventure): From CAD 94 for adults
Tickets can be purchased online or at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. Combo tickets offer better value if you’re also planning to visit the Athabasca Glacier.
Prices are correct at the time of writing (May 2025). Please check the official website below for the most up-to-date information.
All prices are in Canadian Dollars. Convert your currency here.
⪢ Opening Times
● Open Seasonally: May to early October (weather permitting)
● Daily Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last shuttle around 4:30 PM)
Opening and closing dates vary slightly each year—check ahead if visiting early or late in the season.
⪢ Best Time to Visit
● Best Months: June to September for clear skies and warm weather
● Best Time of Day: Morning visits (before 11 AM) offer fewer crowds and better lighting for photos
● Avoid: Late afternoons if you're hoping for glacier views—shadows tend to fall across the valley
● Try to visit on a weekday to avoid peak weekend and tour bus traffic
FAQ: Columbia Icefield Skywalk – What to Know Before You Go
What is the Columbia Icefield Skywalk?
The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a glass-floored observation platform that extends 30 meters (100 feet) out from a cliff edge, 280 meters (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley in the Canadian Rockies.
Where is it located?
How do you get there?
What’s included in the ticket?
Is the Skywalk scary?
How long should I plan for the experience?
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Is it accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Is it worth the price?
Can I take photos and videos?
Must-See Places Near the Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Athabasca
Glacier
Lake
Louise
Lake
Moraine
Our Experience Rating:
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
So, would we recommend this? The honest answer is yes! It is typically placed in a combo package with either a gondola ride or an Ice Explorer Glacier Walk anyway; coupled together, it is 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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I was so happy with this experience and accommodation! I really enjoyed our time in the Rockies.
It was fun here! I love the photos we were able to capture!!!