Cavell Meadows

Overview

Cavell Meadows is Jasper’s classic alpine ramble beneath Mount Edith Cavell, delivering wildflower fields, turquoise meltwater at Cavell Pond, and front-row views of the hanging Angel Glacier. It starts at the Mount Edith Cavell parking area and climbs from forest into open meadows with panoramic peaks.

Trail at a Glance

• Distance/Elevation: 6–7 km round trip loop with about 500 m of gain; moderate overall, with a steeper upper section.
• Start: Far end of the parking lot at the kiosk/display; a short stairway leads to a section that’s paved at the beginning before turning to regular trail.
• Route: An obvious loop through subalpine forest and meadows, with upper viewpoints over Angel Glacier and Cavell Glacier. Many hikers also pair it with the nearby Path of the Glacier area from the same lot.

What You’ll See

• Angel Glacier hanging over the valley, with crevasses and seracs front and center.
• Cavell Pond below the ice, often milky-turquoise and dotted with floating ice early in the season.
• Meadows bursting with wildflowers in mid-summer, plus classic glacial features like moraines and a kettle lake.
• Expansive summit-to-valley views that feel far bigger than the hike’s mileage suggests.

Wildlife

Expect small alpine regulars—pikas, golden‑mantled ground squirrels, chipmunks—and the odd marmot. Birds work the meadows, and occasional sightings of larger mammals do happen. This is bear country; carry bear spray and make noise.

Planning & Logistics

• Facilities: Signed trailhead with an interpretive display; pit toilets at the parking area; no water or food services—come prepared.
• Access & crowds: This is one of the park’s most popular day hikes. The lot fills fast on summer weekends. The access road and trail commonly remain closed until mid-July and can shut again with early snow.
• Trail etiquette: The alpine tundra is fragile—stay on marked paths to protect the meadows.

Best Time to Visit

Mid-July to early September is the sweet spot: wildflowers peak, snow is mostly gone, and the upper loop is in good shape. Go early on weekdays to beat the parking crunch and catch calm light. Sunset can be gorgeous on the glacier and surrounding peaks. Early season can be muddy or snow-covered; check current conditions before you go.