Permafrost Path
Panoramic view of the Columbia Icefield with a small group of trekkers silhouetted against the vast glacial landscape, guided by a professional.
A group embarking on a guided glacier trek in the Canadian Rockies.

Experience Banff's Ancient Glacial Wonders

Walk on ancient ice formations with certified mountain guides who ensure your safety while revealing the secrets of Banff's most spectacular glacial landscapes.

Choose Your Glacier Journey

Select a difficulty level above to see trek details, duration, and equipment requirements. Embark on an unforgettable journey across ice that has shaped these mountains for millennia.

View Availability & Book Now

Find Your Perfect Glacier Adventure

A family smiling while walking on a gentle, accessible glacier path with a certified Permafrost Path guide.
Beginner-friendly glacier trek.

Gentle Giant Foothills

Ideal for families and those new to glacial environments, these 3-4 hour treks offer stunning viewpoint access with minimal technical requirements. Learn about glacier formation at a relaxed pace.

  • Family-friendly
  • 3-4 Hours
  • Easy
Two hikers in proper gear confidently stepping on an ice field with a glacier axe, supervised by a guide, in the middle of a vast glacial basin.
Intermediate glacier trek with ice walking.

Icefield Explorer

Step onto the ice itself! These 5-6 hour intermediate treks involve crampon usage and dedicated ice walking. Discover hidden crevasses and explore the glacier's surface safely.

  • Crampons provided
  • 5-6 Hours
  • Moderate
Experienced mountaineers roped together ascending a steep, icy slope on a remote glacier with an alpine backdrop, showcasing advanced techniques.
Advanced glacier traverse for experienced hikers.

Summit Seeker Traverse

For experienced adventurers, our full-day (8+ hours) advanced traverses delve deep into the glaciated terrain, utilizing ropes and advanced techniques to reach breathtaking vistas.

  • Roped travel
  • 8+ Hours
  • Challenging
A diverse group of children and adults engaged in a hands-on learning activity about glaciers, with a guide explaining ice features.
Family-friendly glacier education walk.

Glacier Guardians Education

A 2-hour interactive experience designed for inquisitive minds of all ages. Focused on engaging interpretation of glacial ecology and climate science, with short, gentle walks.

  • All ages education
  • 2 Hours
  • Very Easy

Your Safety Is Our Priority

Close-up of a Permafrost Path certified guide inspecting safety equipment like crampons, harnesses, and ropes before a trek.
Safety equipment and guide preparing for a glacier trek.

At Permafrost Path, our commitment to your safety is unwavering. Every trek is led by certified ACMG or IFMGA Mountain Guides, rigorously trained in glacier travel, crevasse rescue, and wilderness first aid.

  • Highly certified and experienced mountain guides.
  • Top-tier safety equipment provided: crampons, harnesses, helmets.
  • Continuous weather monitoring and adaptive trip planning.
  • Comprehensive emergency communication and response protocols.
  • Small group sizes for personalized attention and safety.
Learn More About Our Safety Standards

Learn While You Explore

A guide pointing to distinct layers of ice and moraines on a glacier, explaining glaciology to an engaged group of trekkers.
Learning about glaciology on a glacier trek.

Glaciology Deep Dive

Uncover the mysteries of ice formation, glacial movement, and the geological forces that sculpted the Rockies. Our guides provide fascinating insights into these ancient phenomena.

A small group observing alpine flora and fauna near a glacier, guided by an expert on local ecology.
Discovering local ecology near a glacier.

Ecology & Conservation

Understand the delicate balance of the alpine ecosystem, the unique flora and fauna that thrive here, and the vital role glaciers play in the broader environment. Learn about our eco-conscious practices.

Enhance Your Glacier Photography Skills

Year-Round Glacier Experiences

Summer Wonders (June-Sept)

Accessible ice walk adventures, stunning blue ice formations, and the best opportunities for ice cave exploration.

Autumn Photography (Sept-Oct)

Crisp air, dramatic lighting, and fewer crowds make fall ideal for capturing the grandeur of the glaciers.

Winter Expeditions (Nov-April)

Experience the silent beauty of snow-covered glaciers with snowshoe and winter crampon techniques.

Spring Renewal (May)

Witness the glacier's awakening; learn about meltwater dynamics and enjoy unique early-season access.

Check Seasonal Availability

Gear Up for Glacier Adventure

A diverse set of layered outdoor clothing, glacier-specific boots, backpacks, and safety gear neatly arranged for a cold-weather trek.
Essential gear for a glacier trek with Permafrost Path.

Proper preparation ensures a comfortable and safe experience. We provide all technical gear, but personal layering is key. Here's what to consider:

Included Equipment:

  • Crampons
  • Harnesses
  • Helmets
  • Ice axes (as needed)

Your Personal Gear:

  • Layered clothing (moisture-wicking, insulated)
  • Waterproof outer shell (jacket & pants)
  • Sturdy hiking boots (waterproof)
  • Warm hat & gloves
  • Sunscreen & sunglasses

We offer rental options for hiking boots and waterproof outerwear if you don't have your own. Contact us for sizing and availability.

Get Your Detailed Packing List

Ready for Your Glacier Adventure?

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Permafrost Path. Our expert guides, rigorous safety, and commitment to education ensure an experience unlike any other.

Book Your Guided Glacier Adventure Today