It’s one of the most iconic peaks in the Alberta Rockies, and Mount Edith Cavell in Jasper is more than just a massive, pretty mountain.
It’s certainly a natural wonder to check out in our province and an absolute gem of Jasper National Park.
But what makes it so special, you ask?
One of the first things that will wow you is the long, winding drive off Highway 93A that delivers breathtaking views of the mountain itself. It’s so large it nearly takes up your entire view. Once you do the drive, you’ll know exactly what we are talking about; the view you get is almost indescribable.
It’s also highly accessible, with a nice paved path leading to the views of the mint-green lake below Angel Glacier.
Keep in mind that Cavell Road typically opens to vehicles in June, weather permitting, and all access is prohibited from November 1 through May 15 (inclusively) to protect the important winter habitat of the Tonquin caribou herd.
The mountain was named after Edith Cavell, a war nurse who saved the lives of hundreds of soldiers during World War I before she was executed by a German firing squad.
Rising to 3,363 metres in elevation, it is also the most prominent peak located entirely within Alberta. Jasper has one-upped you there in the mountain views in Alberta, Banff.
Of course, you can see Angel Glacier as well, a glacier that rests its “wings” in the cirque between Mt. Edith Cavell and Sorrow Peak. Sadly, most of the angel’s “body” has broken away over time.
It’s suggested to stay on identified trails to avoid damaging flora and fauna and to avoid falling chunks of ice and rock. There is always the chance of witnessing a mini avalanche cascading down the mountainside.
Back in 2012, the Ghost Glacier fell from Mount Edith Cavell, causing massive debris to flood the valley. Be aware of your surroundings while there!
Fun fact: The Okotoks Erratic (aka Big Rock) is thought to have been sourced from an area close to Mount Edith Cavell when a rockslide 30,000 years ago deposited the rock on the Cordilleran Ice Sheet.
According to the Government of Alberta, the rock was then carried by the glacier to its current location approximately 10,000 years ago. Just a little bit of neat Alberta history for you right there!
Government of Alberta
Grab a friend or family member, pack some snacks and your camera, and get ready to search for this phenomenon yourself. It’s definitely worth seeing.
The two Mt. Edith Cavell hikes are the Path of the Glacier Trail and the Cavell Meadows Trail.
The Path of the Glacier Trail is the shortest, while the Cavell Meadows Trail is a moderately challenging half-day hike that climbs above the tree line.