National Park & Nature

Crowfoot Glacier

📍 Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint, Icefields Parkway, Alberta, Canada

No photos yet

3.8/ 5.0

★★★★☆

Introduction

Crowfoot Glacier sits on the northern edge of Banff National Park beside the Icefields Parkway, named for its former crow's-foot shape. Climate warming has retired its third toe, leaving two ice tongues clinging to the cliff—an vivid lesson in glacial retreat. A dedicated viewpoint frames Bow Lake, numbered peaks and the ice; a must-stop on the Parkway.

✨ Highlights

Crow's-foot shape

Once three toes, now two ice tongues—distinctive and easy to read.

Retreat evidence

Old photos show clear shrinkage—strong climate lesson.

Viewpoint

Roadside parking, no hike needed; good for all ages.

With Bow Lake

Blue Bow Lake and peaks in one frame—full composition.

Icefields Parkway

On the most scenic highway, linking glaciers and lakes.

Photo spot

Morning side-light on the ice wall is the best time.

🛈 Practical Info

→Best season：Jun–Sep best ice and road

→Admission：Banff/Jasper pass required

→Plan for：20–40 min

→Getting there：Roadside viewpoint, north Parkway

→Facilities：Parking, interpretive signs

→Caution：High, windy—dress warm

💡 Tips

• Morning light best reveals ice detail.

• Pair with Bow Lake and Peyto Lake in a half-day.

• No toilets at the viewpoint—plan ahead in town.

• Some winter closures on Hwy 93—check status.

• Binoculars show crevasses and rock strata.

• Stay behind rails; don't enter the moraine.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Crowfoot Glacier?

Morning light best reveals ice detail. Pair with Bow Lake and Peyto Lake in a half-day.

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.