Want to walk close to the famous Columbia Icefield without joining a long tour or hike? The Toe of the Glacier Trail is a short and easy walk – only 1.5 km round trip – perfect for families, casual hikers, or anyone who wants to see a glacier up close and learn about how it has changed over time.
We visited in mid-July, and even though it was technically summer, the wind was strong and the temperature was low. Dress warm! This short hike gave us a surprisingly deep look at both the beauty and the fragility of the Athabasca Glacier.
Looking for more? Read our full Icefields Parkway Glacier Guide for all the must-see glaciers on the route.
Our Day Trip Summary
- When: Mid-July, we left Jasper around 10:10 a.m.
- Drive Time: About 1 hour and 20 minutes along Highway 93
- Arrived: 11:20 a.m. at the trailhead (across from the Icefield Discovery Centre)
- Weather: Cold and windy – even in summer! Bring a shell or down jacket.
- Crowds: Already quite a few people when we arrived before noon.
This short trail is a great addition to your Icefields Parkway itinerary if you don’t want to commit to long hikes or tours.
Toe of the Glacier Trail: A Family-Friendly Glacier Walk
This trail is one of the easiest ways to get close to the Columbia Icefield. It’s around 1.5 km round trip, flat and gravelly, with almost no elevation gain. You can easily complete it in under an hour with photo stops. There are interpretive signs along the way explaining how glaciers form and change over time.
By the time you reach the end, the glacier’s “toe” has already retreated far up the valley. What used to be solid ice is now a rocky moraine field.
Seeing Glacial Retreat with Your Own Eyes
One of the most memorable parts of this hike is seeing the year markers that show where the glacier used to be. Decades ago, you would’ve been standing directly on the ice. Now, the ice edge is hundreds of meters away.
It’s one of the simplest and most powerful visual lessons on climate change we’ve ever experienced. Even without a guide, this short walk tells a powerful story.
Want to Get Closer? Ice Explorer & Guided Glacier Walk Options
Besides the free Toe of the Glacier walk, there are two popular paid options if you want to actually step onto the ice:
Ice Explorer Tour
Many people wonder: Is the Ice Explorer worth it? If you’re traveling with kids or seniors, this is a great choice.
The Ice Explorer is a six-wheeled vehicle that drives right onto the glacier. You’ll have time to walk around safely, fill your bottle with pure glacier water, and take photos on the ice.
- Duration: Around 3 hours
- Starting point: Icefield Discovery Centre
- Can be bundled with the Skywalk pass
- Highly recommended to book in advance (especially July–August)
Guided Glacier Walks (IceWalks.ca)
If you want something more adventurous, book a guided glacier walk with crampons and helmets included. These small-group hikes allow you to step on crevasses, meltwater channels, and even glacier caves—led by certified guides.
You must book in advance, especially during summer. We saw IceWalks.ca vans at the parking lot—they offer both half-day and full-day tours.
- Age limit: 7+
- Booking: IceWalks.ca
- Private tours available
Trailhead Tips: Parking, Toilets, Weather & Food
- Parking: There are two parking lots just across from the Discovery Centre. Follow signs for “Toe of the Glacier”. If it’s full, use the large Discovery Centre lot – just expect a longer walk.
- Toilets: There are two pit toilets at the trailhead but they may have line ups. I preferred using the restrooms inside the Discovery Centre.
- Food: There’s a snack bar inside the Discovery Centre. Prices are high, so consider bringing lunch or snacks.
- Clothing: Even in July, bring a windproof jacket. The wind off the glacier is no joke. No sandals—wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots.
Where to Stay Nearby
To make your trip more relaxed and avoid rushing, many travelers stay one night along the Icefields Parkway. Here are three convenient options (affiliate links included):
Glacier View Lodge
Right next to the Discovery Centre. The only hotel with direct glacier views—truly a million-dollar view! Book months in advance in summer. Check availability
Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge
About 40 minutes north. A good choice before heading back to Jasper. Book now.
The Crossing Resort
Roughly 50 minutes south. Great if you’re continuing toward Lake Louise or Banff. Find best prices.
FAQ: Quick Answers
Q: Can you walk to a glacier on the Icefields Parkway?
Yes! Toe of the Glacier is the most accessible option and requires no booking.
Q: Is the Ice Explorer worth it?
It’s a unique and easy way to stand on a glacier—especially great for families.
Q: Do I need to book a glacier walk tour in advance?
Yes. Guided glacier hikes (Ice Walks) are very popular and often sell out in summer.
Final Thoughts
Toe of the Glacier might be a short trail, but the impact it leaves is deep. Whether you’re curious about climate change, traveling with family, or just want to see a glacier up close without much effort – this little trail gives you all of that and more.
If you’re planning your Icefields Parkway adventure, don’t miss this quick but meaningful stop.
