Mount Edith Cavell Road
Jasper National Park
Demanding ski to the base of Mount Edith Cavell, where you can stay overnight in a snowbound hostel.
Cross Country Skiing Difficult
- Distance
- 24 km
- Ascent
- 847 m
- Descent
- 847 m
- Duration
- 2-3 hrs
- Low Point
- 1.2 km
- High Point
- 1.7 km
- Gradient
- 7˚
In summer it's the access road for Mount Edith Cavell and the Tonquin Valley trek; in winter it becomes a highway for intrepid cross-country skiers. Its length and elevation gain make it quite difficult, but the destination is especially rewarding. With the famous mountain looming before you the whole way, the ascent finally ends at a breathtaking view of Edith's snow-draped face over a frozen lake.
Description
You can even make this an overnight ski trip by staying at the Mount Edith Cavell hostel, located near the end of the trail mapped here. Note that Cavell Road opens for skiing later than most trails in the park. It is accessible beginning February 15, and is then groomed for classic and skate.
Sources: http://parkscanadahistory.com/brochures/jasper/winter-trails-e-2012.pdf https://hihostels.ca/en/destinations/alberta/hi-mount-edith-cavell
Difficulty
Difficult
Medium Exposure (E2)
As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.
Remoteness
Away from help but easily accessed.