Glacier Skywalk

Glass-bottom cliff walk with big Columbia Icefield views

InsideJasper National Park

Overview

A modern showstopper on the Icefields Parkway, the Glacier Skywalk (also known as the Columbia Icefield Skywalk) is a cliff-edge, glass-bottom walkway that juts 35 m from the rock face and hangs roughly 280–300 m over the Sunwapta Valley. Opened in 2014, it pairs big views with a touch of vertigo and a polished interpretive experience.

What You'll See

Vast panoramas of the Sunwapta Valley, glacier-clad peaks, and the broader Columbia Icefield region.
A glass-floor observation platform for that straight-down, stomach‑tingling perspective.
Interpretive stops along the approach covering geology, glaciology, ecology, and Indigenous history.

Wildlife

Keep your eyes on the cliffs and slopes for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and birds of prey. Sightings happen, but they aren’t guaranteed—bring a small zoom lens or binoculars if you’re keen.

How It Works

Access is by shuttle only: park at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and ride the bus to the Skywalk.
Shuttles run regularly (about every 15 minutes in season); you can linger on the platform within operating hours and return on a later bus.
It’s a ticketed attraction; you can buy stand‑alone entry or bundle with nearby experiences like the Athabasca Glacier tour. You’ll also need a Parks Canada pass to drive the Parkway.

What It’s Like (and whether it’s worth it)

This is all about the sensation and the view: thrilling exposure, polished exhibits, and easy access. The two common gripes are cost and crowds—and it’s not perched directly over the Athabasca Glacier. If you just want scenery, there are free viewpoints nearby; if you want the glass‑floor drama and curated interpretation, this delivers.

Practical Notes

There are no restrooms, food, or water at the Skywalk itself—use facilities at the Discovery Centre.
It’s exposed and can be windy or chilly even in mid‑summer—pack layers.

Best Time to Visit

Season: Typically spring through fall (closed in winter conditions).
Day/time: Aim for near opening or late afternoon to dodge the midday bus rush and get softer light. Weekdays are calmer than weekends.
Photography: Early or late light flatters the valley and reduces glare on the glass; bring a microfiber cloth for reflections.

Pros

Dramatic glass-floor platform 280–300 m above Sunwapta Valley
Interpretive exhibits and included audio tour

Cons

Pricey for a short, often crowded experience
No on-site parking; mandatory shuttle from the Discovery Centre

Tips

Park at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and budget time for the mandatory shuttle (~every 15 minutes).
Buy tickets in advance or bundle with the Athabasca Glacier tour.
Use the restrooms at the Discovery Centre; there are none at the Skywalk.
Dress in layers—the platform is exposed and windy, even in summer.
For fewer crowds and better light, go near opening or late afternoon.