The Wapta Icefields stretch far across the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park, just north of Lake Louise—and this moderately-challenging three-day course is a perfect way for thrillseeking hikers to see them.
The Wapta Icefields provide a unique opportunity for fit walkers and hikers to explore the stunning landscapes of the mountains, in a place that’s “normally reserved for mountaineers,” says Yamnuska.
Led by expert guides who can explain the rugged frozen ecology intimately and comfortably, you’ll see extraordinary Rocky Mountain peaks, while trekking in secure crampons along the paths to Peyto Hut, Mt. St. Nick and Peyto Lake. You’ll feast on wild trail cuisine, custom prepared by the crew.
Drink fresh glacier water from the streams before tucking in for the evening in alpine huts operated by the Alpine Club of Canada, waking up each morning to the incomparable sunrises of the Rocky Mountains. And just so you know: this trip is a Canadian Tourism Commission “Signature Experience.”
Day 1 | Hike for roughly four hours across seven kilometres from Bow Lake to Bow Hut, starting along a popular trail and moving onward to a steeper route that rewards travellers with views of a stunning limestone gorge. Finish the day near the Bow Glacier with a clear view of the starry night sky, 2,350 metres above sea level.
The Wapta Ice Hike. (Photos courtesy of Yamnuska Mountain Adventures)
Day 2 | Wake up early to trek across the Wapta Icefields toward Peyto Hut, across limitless mountain peaks, ice floors and panoramic views. Tread carefully and slowly with an experienced guide across six kilometres—and enjoy the view from every moment.
Day 3 | Descend back down from the glacier, passing old moraines and a glacier research station, along flowing rivers until you reach Peyto Lake. From there, you’ll return to the well-beaten path and trek back to relax in Canmore.
[Note: The itinerary of this classic tour by Yamnuska has been slightly revised (as of winter 2022) to accommodate for new health and safety precautions due to COVID-19. For details, we recommend you contact Yamnuska directly.]
The Wapta Ice Hike | YAMNUSKA CANADIAN ROCKIES HIKING (also Yamnuska Mountain Adventures)
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Phone: 866.678.4164
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SM: FB, Twitter, Instagram
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Length/Departs: 3 days; multiple departs (June, July, Aug., Sept.)
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Accommodation: ask operator.
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Price: typically from $890 CDN, but must confirm current pricing with operator.
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Difficulty: Moderately challenging.
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Special Note: All staff with Yamnuska are required to be vaccinated against COVID-1. For consumers, Yamnuska states it has implemented Alberta’s COVID-19 Restriction Exemption Program. Click thru for details.
Trip details from operator. To learn more about this adventure, click here.
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