Icefalls Winter Hike + Ice Bubbles
Call 403 986-6190 or email bookings@nordeggadventures.ca for more info
Activity
Winter Hike + Ice Walk
Adventure Level
Moderate 4-5 km walk
Meeting Location
Cline River
Duration
6 hours
Availability
Daily at 9:30
Season
November to Mid-March
Two of our favourites in one tour
Winter in Alberta’s West Country is magical. This tour takes you to two of our favourite spots: the ice bubbles of Abraham Lake and the narrow canyon of the Cline River.
First up is a winter hike or snowshoe (depending on snow conditions) through the lodgepole pine forest as we make our way to a viewpoint overlooking the Cline River Canyon. We’ll then make our way down into the canyon, walking along a frozen creek, to enjoy a snack surrounded by icefalls. On most days you’ll get to watch ice climbers work their way up the canyon walls.
The afternoon is spent on Abraham Lake, hunting for ice bubbles, quirky ice formations and taking in the views from the frozen lake.
A picnic lunch, hiking poles, snowshoe rentals (if needed), ice cleats and a professional guide are all included.
Why book This Tour?
- See the famous ice bubbles and features of Abraham Lake in the Canadian Rockies.
- Take in the beauty of the ice-covered walls of the Cline River Canyon.
- Go with a local guide who knows the best and safest spots.
- It’s a great option for all ages. No outdoor experience is required.
Meeting Time & Place
Meet your guide at the upper parking lot at the Abraham Slabs Camping Area. Get directions
Meeting Time: 9:30 am
Getting here From Nordegg
It’s a scenic 30 minutes drive from Nordegg heading west on Highway 11.
Getting here From Lake Louise
It’s a scenic 1.5 hour drive from Lake Louise to Cline River, heading north on Highway 93 and then east on Highway 11. Please note that winter tires are mandatory on Highway 93.
Book Now
Trip Details
- Meeting Time & Place
- What to Bring
- What’s Included
- Food
- Booking Terms
Meet your guide at the upper parking lot at the Abraham Slabs Camping Area. Get directions
Return Time: Approximately 3 pm.
The itinerary may change without notice due to the weather and other factors.
Getting here From Nordegg
Before you even meet your guide for the day you’ll get to enjoy the scenic drive from Nordegg to Abraham Lake, making your way through the foothills and the front range of the Canadian Rockies. It’s only a 30-minute drive but we recommend planning for a little extra time, especially with feral horses and bighorn sheep often seen along the highway.
Getting here From Lake Louise
Coming from Lake Louise? The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) will take you past Bow Lake, Crowfoot Glaciers and many other landmarks before heading east on Highway 11 where you’ll enjoy the North Saskatchewan River valley. It’s less than 1.5 hours to get here from Lake Louise we recommend planning on at least 2 hours so that you get to enjoy the views along the way. Please note that winter tires are mandatory on Highway 93.
We get to play outside on our tours and that means you’ll want to come prepared for the weather. We rarely cancel tours due to weather, as long as we can have a safe adventure. You’ll be amazed at how warm we get when we’re having fun!
Make sure to dress in layers and come ready for the unpredictable weather we often get in Alberta. Most days are between -15°C and 0°C, but we see anything from -30°C to +10°C on our winter tours. Abraham Lake is a very windy place, bring an extra layer with you just in case.
Make sure to bring with you:
- Winter boots.
- A winter jacket and snow pants.
- Tuque and gloves.
- Clothing to wear under your snow pants and jacket: for example long underwear and a fleece sweater.
- Sunglasses.
- A small backpack and water bottle.
Included in your tour
- A professional guide.
- Ice cleats.
- Lunch, snacks and gourmet hot chocolate.
- Guides carry safety equipment, including satellite communicators on all tours.
Add-Ons
Ice cleats and safety equipment are included during the tour. If you’re planning to explore on your own after the tour you can rent the equipment at a discounted rate for the rest of the day (must be reserved at the time of booking).
NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR TOUR
- Appropriate clothes and footwear for the weather conditions.
- Transportation. Contact us to discuss transportation options from Nordegg, Banff or Lake Louise.
- Meals and accommodations.
- Travel insurance.
- Gratuities are not required but are always appreciated.
Lunch for this adventure is served picnic-style and includes a hearty soup or sandwich, veggies and dips, juice, and dessert.
Our winter tours wrap up with our homemade hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Please make sure to mention any dietary requirements when you book your adventure and we will try to accommodate whenever possible.
Advance Booking
This tour requires bookings to be made at least 2 days prior to departure. Please contact us at (403) 986-6190 for a last-minute booking.
Cancellation Policy
All bookings are non-refundable but we will offer you a credit for a future adventure if you cancel a minimum of 72 hours prior to departure.
Terms and Conditions
Waivers are required for all participants. You can review the waiver here.
Please review our complete terms and conditions prior to booking.
The itinerary may change without notice due to the weather and other factors. Our goal is to always provide the best possible experience.
