Edith Cavell Hike – Jasper National Park
Of anything in Jasper National Park you NEED to see, Edith Cavell is it. Edith Cavell is a stunning display of glaciers, massive mountains, and blooming wildflowers. The Cavell is truly something you couldn’t imagine in your wildest dreams.
I first visited Edith Cavell back in 2020 and then came back in 2021 because seeing it once wasn’t enough! I’m telling’ ya, once you set eyes on the mint green Cavell pond… No words.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Edith Cavell AND here’s my guide for planning the perfect trip to Jasper National Park.
Skip Ahead:
- About Edith Cavell
- How to get to Edith Cavell
- Hiking to Edith Cavell
- Things to see at Edith Cavell
- What to wear to Edith Cavell
- Essential day-hiking gear
- Tips for a successful trip
- Best places to stay in Jasper
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Related Posts:
- Everything you need to know about planning a trip to Jasper
- Best things to do in Jasper
- Complete guide to the Icefields Parkway (Banff to Jasper)
- Jasper’s off-the-beaten path adventures
- More hiking trails in Jasper
- Explore Jasper’s southern neighbour: Banff National Park
About Edith Cavell
Edith Cavell is named after – you guessed it – Edith Cavell. Edith saved hundreds of soldiers during WWI before her execution. Pre-Edith, the Cavell was actually named “White Ghost” by the area’s indigenous peoples.
Mt Edith Cavell is located in the Athabasca and Astoria River Valleys of Jasper National Park and is the most prominent peak in Alberta, standing at 3, 363m. Other things you can expect to be wowed by while visiting Edith Cavell are:
- Angel Glacier – Angel Glacier spills over a 300m cliff on the north face and gets it name from its “angel wing” shape.
- Cavell Pond – Cavell Pond (featured above) gets its mint colour from an abundance of glacial silt.
More: 10 Facts About Edith Cavell
How To Get To Edith Cavell
Edith Cavell is located 40 minutes from the town of Jasper and just under 4 hours from Banff. From either direction you’ll want to take the Icefields Parkway, turn off at the 93A, then head up Edith Cavell road.
Getting to the Edith Cavell trailhead is a bit of an adventure in itself. The road is closed mid October to mid June due to winter conditions which leaves a short amount of time to see the Cavell. You can check here to see specifics about road closures and opening dates.
Advice for Large Vehicles & Trailers
Edith Cavell road is tight, windy, and steep. Only certain vehicles (up to 25ft) are able to drive up the road – if you’re driving a large motorhome there’s no way you’d make it around the tight bends. If you’re driving a detachable trailer, there’s a spot at the base of Edith Cavell road where you can leave it.
There are a few viewpoints along the way, I’d suggest to make the most of your trip and check them all out! There’s one notable viewpoint closer to the top overlooking the Astoria river; this valley is absolutely gorgeous.
Edith Cavell is a super popular destination, which means parking can be a bit crazy. There are two parking lots, each of decent size, but if there aren’t any spots you’ll need to find parking on the road.
Hiking To Edith Cavell
WARNING – although not overly common, rock slides and avalanches do occur in the area. Be smart and be safe. For more information on avalanche saftey, visit Parks Canada.
If you’re looking for more of a challenge, consider summiting the East Ridge. This was on my bucket list when I visited the first time, however it started snowing and I didn’t have proper gear. Summiting the East Ridge will provide you with a birds-eye view of the Cavell and the surrounding meadow.
The map featured above is the trail leading to Edith Cavell Meadows. If you’re a wildflower enthusiast, visit around mid July/early August.
The trail to the Cavell itself is actually only 1km long with minimal elevation gain. As you walk along the partially paved path to Edith Cavell you’ll be trekking over a moraine. My favourite part about this valley is the brown colour of the surrounding rocks which are much different than the rest of the grey coloured Rocky Mountains.
Within 15 minutes you’ll reach Edith Cavell! You’ll first come across a viewing platform. You can bypass this and start walking toward Edith Cavell instead – the best views are up close.
Once you reach the flat, rocky ground of the valley floor there’s no real path. You’ll be maneuvering around an uneven rock field which can get quite slippery after a rain or snowfall. I’d recommend wearing sturdy hiking boots – I use these – and micro-spikes if you think conditions will be icy at all (typically early or late in the season).
Things to See at Edith Cavell
As you walk up to Edith Cavell I can assure you the only words that’ll come out of your mouth will be “wow” “omg” “look at this.” Edith Cavell is truly a natural wonder.
I’ve been to the Cavell twice, but my first trip was by far the most memorable. As I started driving up the windy mountain road it started to snow – one of the first snowfalls of the season! As I approached Angel Glacier and the mint-coloured Cavell Pond my jaw was literally on the floor.
What made it even sweeter were the glacial waterfalls cascading down Mt Edith Cavell.
Another fan favourite at Edith Cavell are the mini icebergs you can find floating around Cavell Pond. You can actually get right up to them, touch them, stand on them, and even lick them – just be careful you don’t get your tongue stuck!
When I first visited the Cavell in October 2020, Angel Glacier was wide open and accessible. I was able to climb through the glacier and check out all the little nooks and crannies.
When I returned in August 2021, I found there had been a significant change to the structure of the glacier. What was once open is now covered by a mix of snow and dirt, forming dangerous crevasses. You will no longer be able to climb around Angel Glacier – and even if you think you can, don’t for safety reasons.
What To Wear To Edith Cavell
To get to Edith Cavell, you must drive up a windy mountain road, leaving you at a much higher elevation than when you started. The elevation of Cavell Pond is 1, 804m, whereas Cavell Meadows is at 2, 303m, and at the peak of Mt Edith Cavell you’ll be well over 3, 000m.
As you gain elevation, the temperature undoubtably gets colder. Therefor if you’re staying in the town of Jasper (1, 060m) you can expect a significant temperature change once you arrive at the Cavell. This is also a glacier which means you’ll be around frozen features, adding to the chilly temperatures.
You’ll need to dress warm when visiting the Cavell. I’d recommend layering with what you have, but if you’ll be hiking often I’d recommend investing in the following:
Jackets & Top Layers: What to Wear to Edith Cavell
- Puffer jacket – I use the Columbia Heavenly Jacket. This jacket in particular is super light-weight, packs down small, and throws an incredible amount of heat. Additionally it’s a flattering fit and has no hood. When investing in warm layers it’s important to look for items with no hood. This reduces fabric around your neck and makes for a more comfortable hike.
- Fleece layer – instead of a puffer jacket you could also use a fleece layer; I have this one from Columbia. Having a zip fleece layer is a great alternative option to a puffer jacket. Fleece zips are versatile, warm, and comfortable.
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- Rain coat – my jacket of choice for hiking is the Marmot Precip. This jacket is lightweight, packs down into its own pocket, and is wind and waterproof. It also has an adjustable hood and is durable, so you don’t have to worry about it ripping if you come into contact with rocks. Rain jackets are great for hiking because they trap your body’s heat and protect you from the wind – this is especially important for hiking at higher elevations.
- Even though this jacket is breathable, I always layer with a long sleeve dry-fit shirt. This stops that gross, sweaty layer forming on your skin.
Pants & Extras: What to Wear to Edith Cavell
- Soft Shell Pants – soft shell pants are my go-to for cold weather adventures. They’re like snow pants, but are thinner and more mobile while still trapping in the heat
- Gloves – I always pack the North Face Etip glove, however if it’s raining or really cold I pack my Burton Gore-tex mittens. Both these choices are warm, come in a variety of sizes, and have grippy materials on the fingers and palm which make it easy to hold onto your trekking poles.
- Toque – make sure you protect your head! In theory if your head is warm, the rest of your body will be warm. My toque of choice is this one from Burton
I take these items with me on every hike. Layering is the most important thing when dressing for a hike in the Rocky Mountains. It’s imperative that you have the right layers to keep you warm and protected from the elements!
Discover More Adventures in Jasper
Jasper is one of the famed Canadian National Parks and for good reason. Jasper is home to striking mountains, vibrant alpine lakes, glaciers, and abundant wildlife.
You can find all my Jasper hiking and travel resources here, but the following are some highlight content you don’t want to miss:
- How to plan the perfect trip to Jasper
- Multi-day canoe trip on Maligne Lake
- Maligne canyon: Summer & winter ice walk
- Complete guide to the Icefields Parkway
- Beautiful alpine lakes in Jasper
- Best things to do in jasper
- Hiking trails in Jasper
Explore More Rocky Mountain Destinations
Jasper is just one of the 4 Rocky Mountain National Parks in Canada. If you’re visiting the Canadian Rockies you’ll want to also check out Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Kananaskis Country, and Kootenay National Park.
And don’t forget the Rockies Southern neighbours: Waterton Lakes National Park and Writing on Stone Provincial Park.
Tips for a Successful Hike to Edith Cavell
- Wear sturdy hiking boots to Edith Cavell – I use these – you’ll be walking through an uneven rock field
- If there’s any snow on the ground you’ll want to use micro-spikes
- If you’re venturing out for photos, arrive very early to avoid the crowds
- There aren’t any food options, so make sure you pack a lunch
- The closest gas station is in the town of Jasper – 40 minutes away
- Only certain vehicles can make it up Edith Cavell road
- July/early August are the best times of the year to see the wildflowers bloom at Edith Cavell Meadows
Best Places To Stay In Jasper National Park
The best place to stay in Jasper depends on your price range. So, here are a few suggestions for every budget:
Booking.com- Cheap(er) hotels in Jasper – Jasper Gates Resort, Overlander Mountain Lodge
- Mid-range hotels in Jasper: Tonquin Inn, Whistler’s Inn, Lobstick Lodge, Astoria Hotel, Sawridge Inn
- Luxury hotels in Jasper: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Pyramid Lake Resort, Mount Robson Inn
- Cheapest lodging options: camp at Wapiti or Whistler’s campground (camping info). Alternatively stay at one of Jasper’s hostels; HI Jasper and Jasper Downtown Hostel.
- Best cabins in Jasper: Miette Mountain cabins, Tekarra Lodge, Patricia Lake Bungalows, Jasper East Cabins
- See all Jasper lodging options here
Planning a trip to Jasper? Don’t forget to check out my trip planner! I’ll help you create the perfect Jasper itinerary.
Happy adventuring!
Taylor ♡
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About the Author
HI, I’m Taylor – the voice behind The Holistic Backpacker.
After moving to Banff National Park in 2020 I became an outdoor adventure enthusiast and vowed to never stop exploring.
I now spend my days travelling the world, climbing mountains, and spending nights under the stars in the Canadian Rockies backcountry.
I created The Holistic Backpacker so I could share my adventures and help connect people like you with the same amazing experiences.
