Walking EuropeThe Cavell Glacier
Walk 6067
Country - Canada
Region - Jasper National Park
Author - Lou Johnson
Time - 1.00 hours
Grade - easy
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This is a short circular walk that offers the chance to see the great north face of Mount Edith Cavell as well as being able to see the ice floating in the glacial lake. The start is the car park at the end of Cavell Road. To reach here take Highway 93 for about 7km south of Jasper and turn right onto Highway 93A. Continue for just over 5km and then turn right again onto Cavell Road. This 12km section is narrow and quite slow in places. At busy times parking spaces at the trailhead may be in short supply.
After parking go to the far end of the parking area by an information board about Edith Cavell. Take the short flight of steps up onto the trail, which is paved for the first section as you follow the morraine. Across the valley you can see the Angel Glacier with Mount Edith Cavell to the left and Sorrow Peak to the right.
Reaching a junction, ignore the sharp left turn and continue straight ahead to start descending to Cavell Pond. Here you will see ice floating in the water that has come down off the glacier. You will also realise that glaciers are not clean and white! Also do take notice of the warning signs and keep well away from the area where ice falls from the glacier are likely to happen.
Return to the car parking area is by taking the path that follows the outflow from the Cavell Pond. Cavell Creek which started life in the ice of the glaciers has begun its way to the sea.
Stay Safe
Do enjoy yourself when out walking and choose a route that is within your capabilities especially with regard to navigation.
Do turn back if the weather deteriorates especially in winter or when visibility is poor.
Do wear the right clothing for the anticipated weather conditions. If the weather is likely to change for the worse make sure you have enough extra clothing in your pack.
Do tell someone where you are planning to walk especially in areas that see few other walkers.
Do take maps and other navigational aids. Do not rely on mobile devices in areas where reception is poor. Take spare batteries especially in cold weather.
Do check the weather forecast before leaving. The Met Office has a number of forecasts for walkers that identify specific weather risks.
Please Note - These walks have been published for use by site visitors on the understanding that Walking Britain is not held responsible for the safety or well being of those following the routes as described. It is worth reiterating the point that you should embark on a walk with the correct maps preferably at 1:25000 scale. This will enable any difficulties with route finding to be assessed and corrective action taken if necessary.