3315m (10875ft.)
Located in the Sunwapta River Valley north of Beauty Creek and west of the headwaters of Jonas Creek. Jasper Park, Alberta Major headwater Athabasca River.
Latitude 52; 21; 00 Longitude 117; 16; 30, Topo map 83C/06
Panorama viewpoint: Bow Pass. Can be seen from Highway 93N
Named in 1906. The mountain rises from the Sunwapta River. Sunwapta means "turbulent river" in the Stoney Indian language. The mountain takes its name from the river which was named by Coleman in 1892. Official name.
First ascended by Jimmy Simpson
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| Photo: Looking south-southeast to Sunwapta Peak from the Icefields Parkway More photos |
Other Information
Photo: Looking north to Sunwapta Peak from Wilcox Pass (courtesy Gerry Hopkins)The legendary guide and outfitter, Jimmy Simpson, made the solo first ascent of Sunwapta Peak.
An excellent view of this high, glacier draped peak may be enjoyed from the Icefields Parkway just south of Jonas Creek. Sunwapta Peak is the highest mountain visible to the east of the parkway in the southern portion of Jasper National Park.
For a panoramic view from the summit of Sunwapta Peak visit www.canadasmountains.com.
| Difficulty Easy scrambling via southwest slopes. Sunwapta Peak is deceiving as it is higher and takes significantly longer than what the highway view suggests. Besides an ice axe for snow lingering on the upper slopes, you'll need nothing special except perseverance. On a clear day, the view of major peaks is terrific. Try from late June on. Kane, Scrambles in the Canadian Rockies page 312 |