The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. This move was designed to raise awareness on the vital role that glaciers, snow, and ice play in climate and water cycles, as well as the far-reaching impacts of rapid melt. Glaciers are so much more than just snow and ice, they’re the water towers of the world and they provide fresh water to over half the population on Earth. As they retreat and melt, there are far-reaching implications.

The Columbia Icefield is a thick ice mass that once covered most of western Canada’s mountains. Meltwater from the Columbia Icefield flows to three different oceans. To the west, water flows into the Columbia River, eventually making it to the Pacific Ocean. Towards the east, the glacier melts into the North Saskatchewan River and the Athabasca Rivers, which eventually wind their way to the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, respectively. Along the way, these rivers provide fresh drinking water, support agriculture, and are critical to countless ecosystems across the country.

The Athabasca Glacier spills out of the Columbia Icefield and flows down the valley. Because of its location and the subsequent tourism built around it, it is one of the world’s most accessible glaciers, and millions of visitors are drawn to it year after year.

Tourism Jasper / Rockaboo Mountain Adventures

The Athabasca Glacier has been melting for the last 125 years, and as it recedes up the valley, it leaves behind a bed of rocks in its wake. The rapid retreat is marked on the walk to the glacier toe, and many people are surprised about how far it has receded in between visits. This melting coincides with hot summers and warm winters with minimal snowpack, both factors causing the melt to increase.

There are many ways to learn about the importance of glaciers in the mountain ecosystem, as well as explore the Athabasca Glacier itself. Do not venture out on your own! There are hidden crevices, which are large, virtually invisible cracks in the ice that can go kilometres deep.

The best way to learn about glaciers is with a guided tour. Athabasca Glacier Icewalks and Rockaboo Mountain Adventures provide excellent tours on the ice with experienced guides. These boots-on-the-ground experiences allow you to get close and personal with the glaciers while you learn about how they affect the ecosystem.

Other great activities can be found at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, including the Columbia Icefield Adventure and the new Ice Odyssey, as well as the Columbia Glacier Skywalk. Visit pursuitpass.ca for up to 40% off adventure packages!

Kate Barker