Interested in an Ice Age adventure? Located 130 km north of Lake Louise and three and a half hours from Calgary are the Columbia Icefields, a noteworthy getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown life. The Icefields cover about 326-square km and feed eight major glaciers.
Offering tours throughout the day, visitors are able to travel onto the icefields during an 80-minute, 5-km adventure. Lead by an experienced driver-guide, you will learn first-hand how glaciers are formed, their impact on our environment, and see interesting geological features. At the mid-point, you will have the option of stepping out onto ice formed from snow falling as long as 400 years ago.
There is also the option to take a walk back in time along the Forefield Trail with an experienced guide. During the two-hour journey learn all about the glacier’s path, the impact of glacial melt water. As well as a behind the scenes look at how plants and wildlife survive in such conditions, as well as a brief look at the human history in the area.
Considering it is located several hours out the city, we suggest making a weekend of it. Located on site is The Glacier View Inn on the third (top) floor of the Icefield Centre. A model of environmentally sensitive design, it was built to incorporate the pristine environment it surrounds, and each room offers spectacular views of surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Interested in making this a group adventure? They offer group options and pricing, and several hotel and tour packages.
For more information or to book check out their website.
Photo courtesy Explore Rockies