<p>This study characterizes the vulnerability of mountain guides to climate change in the Canadian Rockies. Using semi-structured interviews (<i>n</i> = 30) and one focus group (<i>n</i> = 4 participants) with guides in the region, we assess the extent to which guides have observed climate-related cryospheric changes, evaluate the relevance of these changes to their guiding practices, and examine their responses. Findings demonstrate that all guides observed climate-related changes in the cryosphere of the Canadian Rockies, including glacier recession, the diminishment of snowpacks and alpine ice, changes in waterfall ice conditions, and permafrost degradation. Guides are sensitive to these exposures because they have contributed to an increase in hazards, altered route character and access, and shortened the guiding seasons. Sensitivity varied according to guides’ subjective assessment of the change, it’s relevance to their guiding practice, and livelihood characteristics. In response, guides have adapted using substitutions, investing more time in research and planning, and adjusting their practices and equipment. However, we found that individual adaptability was determined by social factors (e.g., training, years of experience) that created varied adaptive barriers, leading to differentiated experiences of climate change. We examine the consequences of these impediments and discuss potential strategies for reducing or eliminating them in a mountain guiding context. This study offers insights for the development of interventions aimed at enhancing the resilience of mountain guiding communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges, and provides a benchmark for tracking lived experiences of climate change among mountain guides in the Canadian Rockies.</p>