Do you know what it’s like to throw all caution to the wind and feel as if you are walking over a glacier? The new Glacier Skywalk Jasper National park lets you experience waterfalls, wildlife, fossils on an exciting cliff-edge walkways that leads to a platform where glass is all that separates you from a 918 foot drop. Now you have the chance to experience this thanks to a new glacier skywalk that opened recently at Jasper National Park. This project took nearly two years to build, but those who have visited it already say it was well worth the wait.
The Glacier Skywalk
This $18 million dollar attraction features a glass-floor platform that is 1,000 feet over the valley below. Despite the fact that it looks as if it’s just a fragile piece of glass that can’t hold them, visitors don’t have to fear that it will break from their weight. The skywalk is supported by steel and it is strong enough to support an airplane. It’s a great place to catch incredible views of the Canadian Rockies, Columbia Icefield glaciers and the Sunwapta Valley. There is a railing for those that are a little nervous and want something to hold onto. This semicircle structure is completely out in the open which allows for unobstructed views of the valley and glaciers below.
Other Information
The Glacier Skywalk is located right at the boundary of both Jasper and Banff National Parks. It’s only an hour’s drive from the city of Jasper and 2 ½ hours from the city of Banff. The skywalk is open each day throughout the middle of October. Admission is just around $25 for adults and for children it’s $12. The entire experience lasts about an hour with a guide accompanying guests along the way.
The Glacier Skywalk is a welcomed addition to Canada. It has won several environmental awards due the materials used in its construction because it’s made almost no carbon footprint. Visitors will come to see The Glacier Skywalk, but stay in the area because it is absolutely gorgeous. Between the wildlife and waterfalls in the area it’s hard to believe that such a beautiful area exists that is easily accessible to the public. For those visiting the city there are several historic places to stay at in and around Jasper. Individuals can take advantage of the many hiking and site seeing opportunities or go whitewater rafting. The summer is a great time to visit Jasper and The Glacier Skywalk as the weather is nice and there aren’t any road closures due to snow. Several escorted Canada tours in the region will begin to include this as a visit.
Photo credits: Brewster Travel Canada
