One of the most stunning natural features in British Columbia is undergoing a transformation, as researchers have discovered that Mount Robson’s Berg Glacier has retreated significantly, no longer reaching the water of Berg Lake.
Joseph Shea, a geography associate professor at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), observed this change during a field project on the mountain this summer. He captured a photo showing the glacier no longer connecting with the lake.
Located on the north face of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies near the Alberta border, the Berg Glacier used to extend to Berg Lake, where ice chunks would break off and fall into the water, creating icebergs. The sight of these icebergs floating on the turquoise lake, even in summer, inspired the lake’s name.
Over the past years, B.C. Parks has collaborated with UNBC researcher Brian Menounos to monitor the Berg Lake glacier, noting significant changes. The Berg Lake Trail, covering a 23-kilometer stretch and renowned for its breathtaking scenery, is a popular destination among outdoor enthusiasts, with camping spots selling out quickly each summer.
Although the glacier’s separation from the lake is not expected to lower the water level, it may reduce the number of icebergs directly entering Berg Lake. Despite this change, Mount Robson remains a spectacular destination for visitors, serving as a visual representation of climate change.
Research conducted by Menounos and the Ministry of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship revealed a loss of 22% of glacier surface area in Western Canada and Switzerland between 1985 and 2021. Climate change also caused severe damage to parts of the Berg Lake Trail, leading to hikers being evacuated during a heatwave in 2021. The trail underwent extensive repairs and fully reopened in June 2025.
Efforts are underway to set up real-time weather stations in Mount Robson Provincial Park to collect data on various weather parameters. This data will aid in park management decisions, wildfire forecasting, and avalanche forecasting. B.C. Parks aims to have real-time weather data available by fall or winter 2026 to enhance park operations and ensure visitor safety.
The changes observed at Mount Robson emphasize the urgency of addressing climate change impacts on glaciers and natural landscapes, underscoring the importance of ongoing research and conservation efforts in the region.