The Athabasca Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in North America, located in the Columbia Icefield of the Canadian Rockies. It is part of the larger Athabasca River system and is a popular destination for tourists. The glacier spans approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) and is a remnant of the larger icefield that once covered much of the region. As a significant natural feature, the Athabasca Glacier is a key indicator of climate change. It has been retreating rapidly over the past century, losing about half of its mass since the late 1800s. This retreat is closely monitored by scientists, highlighting the impacts of global warming on glacial environments.