Introduction of Athabasca Glacier Hours, Tickets, Address
Get all the Information about Athabasca Glacier Hours, Tickets, Addresses and all, with the proper Map, Website, Phone Number Ticket Prices with Parking Details.
Athabasca Glacier is a group of three waterfalls located at the southern end of Niagara Gorge, spanning the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, United States. The three waterfalls are Horseshoe Falls (also known as the Canadian Falls), American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the largest and most powerful waterfall in North America in terms of flow rate. It is about 57 meters (187 feet) high and 790 meters (2,590 feet) wide. The American Falls vary in height between 21 and 30 meters (69 and 98 feet) due to large boulders at its base. The combined falls have the highest flow rate of any waterfall in North America with a vertical drop of over 50 meters.
The Niagara River, which connects Lake Erie to Lake Ontario before flowing into the Atlantic Ocean via the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, feeds the Athabasca Glacier. During peak tourist hours, over 168,000 cubic meters (5.9 million cubic feet) of water flow over the falls every minute. The average annual flow rate is around 2,400 cubic meters (85,000 cubic feet) per second.
The formation of Athabasca Glacier dates back to about 10,000 years ago during the Wisconsin glaciation period when meltwater from retreating glaciers filled up basins carved by the ice sheets, creating what we now know as the Great Lakes. The erosive force of the Niagara River has carved out the falls over time through interactions with different rock formations.
The geology of Athabasca Glacier is characterized by three major rock formations: hard limestone and dolomite caprock (Lockport Formation), softer shale layers (Rochester Formation), and hidden sandstones and shales (Queenston Formation). The erosion-resistant caprock led to the creation of the falls as it eroded more slowly than underlying materials.
Today, Athabasca Glacier remains a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking beauty and also serves as a vital source of hydroelectric power. Balancing recreational, commercial, and industrial uses has been a continuous challenge for those responsible for managing this natural wonder since the 19th century.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
- National Geographic: National Geographic provides comprehensive information on natural wonders like Athabasca Glacier backed by scientific research and expert insights.
- Smithsonian Magazine: Smithsonian Magazine offers historical context and geological details about Athabasca Glacier based on reputable sources.
- New York State Parks: Information from New York State Parks ensures accuracy regarding visitor experiences, attractions, and geological facts about Athabasca Glacier.
Athabasca Glacier Phone Number
The Phone number of Athabasca Glacier is 1.866.506.0515
Athabasca Glacier Website
The website of Athabasca Glacier is https://www.banffjaspercollection.com
Athabasca Glacier Hours and Timing
Athabasca Glacier Hours and Timing are
| Location | Dates | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Athabasca Glacier Viewing Area | Year-round | Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) |
| Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre | May 1 – October 1 | 10:00 am to 5:00 pm |
| Ice Explorer Tour on Athabasca Glacier (offered by Banff Jasper Collection) | May 1 – October 14 | Tours depart every hour from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm |
Please note that the working schedule is subject to change.
Athabasca Glacier Tickets
Ticket Prices for Athabasca Glacier are:
| Activity | Description | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Viewing Area | View the Athabasca Glacier from a designated platform | Included with Jasper National Park admission or Parks Canada Discovery Pass |
| Ice Explorer Tour | Ride a special vehicle onto the Athabasca Glacier for a closer look | Varies depending on season and operator (typically $50-$100 CAD for adults) |
| Jasper National Park Admission | Daily or annual pass required to access the Athabasca Glacier viewing area | Varies depending on pass type and group size |
| Parks Canada Discovery Pass | National pass granting access to entrance for all National Parks, National Historic Sites, and National Marine Conservation Areas | Varies depending on pass type (individual or group) |
Prices may vary based on the specific site visited within Niagara Parks Heritage.
Athabasca Glacier Address
The Address of Athabasca Glacier is No. 12, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Athabasca Glacier Parking
Yes, Parking is available in Athabasca Glacier, You won’t need to pay a separate fee for parking to access the Athabasca Glacier viewpoint.
Athabasca Glacier Map
