Beware walking on the Athabasca Glacier

Hike to the Toe of the Athabasca Glacier I opted to hike this short trail rather than ride the bus up the glacier road but if time had permitted I would have enjoyed a walk with a guide further up the glacier itself away from the crowds. One of the signs warning the novice mountain tourists to stay off the glacier! It states: "As temperatures warm and the glacier recedes, a sizeable river and lake have developed under the toe of the glacier. This has created unstable and dangerous conditions. Walking on the toe of the glacier is not safe. Please remain on the trail. Looking for a safe way to get onto the glacier? Try a walk with a certified mountain guide or a Brewster Ice Explorer tour. Visit the Parks Canada desk in the Icefield Centre for more information." September 12, 2011