Discovery Centre Levels

The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is a multi-level facility designed to enhance your visit to the Athabasca Glacier and surrounding areas.

Discovery Centre Main Level (Ground Floor)

Ticketing & Information Desk: Check-in point for the Glacier Adventure and Glacier Skywalk tours.
Gift Shop: Offers souvenirs, local crafts, glacier-themed books, apparel, and postcards.
Icefield Cafeteria: Provides grab-and-go meals, snacks, coffee, and glacier views.
Tour Departures: Ice Explorer buses and shuttles to the Skywalk depart from this level.

Discovery Centre Upper Level

Altitude Restaurant: A full-service dining room with panoramic views of the Athabasca Glacier.
Panoramic Viewing Deck: An open-air observation area ideal for photography and glacier viewing.
Interpretive Exhibits: Displays explaining glacier science, local wildlife, and climate change impacts, including the “Journey through the Ice and Time” exhibit.
Restrooms: Public facilities are available on this level.

Discovery Centre Lower Level (Basement)

Glacier Gallery: Features historic photos, glaciology exhibits, and models showing the glacier's retreat over time.
Educational & Group Areas: Spaces used for school groups or presentations.
Access to Trailheads: Some paths leading toward the glacier viewpoint begin near this level or just outside the building.

Each level is accessible by elevator or stairs, with signage to guide visitors to various amenities and viewpoints. The Discovery Centre also includes environmentally-friendly features and was designed to be sensitive to its natural surroundings.

Book Glacier Skywalk and Athabasca Glacier Tour