Climate change vulnerability and adaptation among mountain guides in the Canadian Rockies

This study characterizes the vulnerability of mountain guides to climate change in the Canadian Rockies. Using semi-structured interviews (n=30) and one focus group (n=4 participants) with guides based in the region, we assess the extent to which guides have observed climate-related cryospheric change, evaluate the relevance of these changes to their guiding practices, and examine their responses to changing climatic conditions. Findings demonstrate that 100% of guides have observed climate-related changes in the mountain cryosphere of the Canadian Rockies, leading to an increase in objective hazards (90%), restrictions in when and where guides can operate (75%), and alterations in route character (63%). Guides experience of these changes varied according to the type of guiding services they provide and their livelihood characteristics. In response, guides have adapted using temporal (100%), spatial (100%), and activity substitutions (83%), dedicating more time to research and planning (87%), and managing client expectations (53%). In using these adaptation strategies, guides in the region encountered both barriers and limitations. we elucidate the consequences of these impediments and discuss potential strategies for reducing or eliminating such barriers and limits to adaptation in a mountain guiding context. This study serves as a benchmark for tracking lived experiences of climate change amongst mountain guides in the Canadian Rockies, and offers insights for the development of interventions aimed at enhancing the resilience of mountain guiding communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges.