Your Glacier Skywalk experience begins at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre, located in Jasper National Park about 1 hour southeast of Jasper on the Icefields Parkway — one of the most stunning highways in the world, with views of more than 100 glaciers and other alpine landscapes. The drive from Jasper takes you past Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Canyon.
After arrival at the Discovery Centre, board a coach for the five-minute transfer to the Glacier Skywalk. When you arrive, you are free to explore the Skywalk at your leisure; it is recommended that you give yourself at least 45 minutes, but you may stay all the way up to closing time, when the last coach will depart for the transfer back to the Discovery Centre.
From the Discovery Centre, drive yourself back to Jasper if that's the way you came, or return on the shuttle, which leaves once per evening. If you're left with extra time before your shuttle departs, check out the Discovery Centre's curio shop for souvenirs, clothing and postcards. Food and drinks may be purchased at your own expense from the onsite cafeteria or dining room; there are no food or drink facilities at the Skywalk, a decision that was made to help reduce the site's ecological footprint.
The Glacier Skywalk is made up of two sections, which you may explore and enjoy at your own pace:
Discovery Trail
As you walk along this cliff-edge boardwalk in the Sunwapta Valley, admire the stunning mountain vistas and enjoy the interpretive displays that strive to introduce you to the geological history and current physical features of Canada’s mighty glaciers. Learn about how water shaped this landscape millions of years ago, the ancient sea creatures that once lived here, the tough survival instincts of various life forms, the eco-friendly design and construction of the Skywalk, the plant life that lives in this region, and the way water flows from the Columbia Icefield to the Arctic, Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
Discovery Vista
Perched at the end of the Discovery Trail is this glass-bottomed platform that stands 918 feet (280 meters) above the Sunwapta Valley. It’s a thrilling way to enjoy the gorgeous views of the valley and the snow-capped mountain peaks.