It is well worth visting the new Icefields Interpretive Center across the road, where you can get an idea of the vast scale by viewing the diorama and where you can also buy an excellent map. Most parties will have to bivouac for Alberta, Columbia, the Twins, Cromwell, and Diadem. Despite their popularity, there are significant avalanche and icefall hazards on both Athabasca and Andromeda. The icefall between the North Glacier and Silverhorn routes, and the area in the 'Bowl' on Mount Andromeda are threatened by seracs. In addition, the slopes on the Silverhorn, the south side of Athabasca, and in the Bowl are prone to avalanche hazard.
Crevasses are also present on all glaciers in the area.
Whiteout conditions and strong winds are a possibility at any time of year on any of these peaks. Moreover, the weather here is frequently the worst in the range. Slogging around the Icefields is probably the best training you can find for climbing Denali. At least one party has spent two nights out while climbing the relatively straightforward Skyladder route in reasonable summer conditions. These peaks are also popular winter objectives due toe their proximity to the road.