We have been up to the base of Edith Cavell several times since it is the start of a few hikes – Astoria River Trail to Tonquin Valley, Verdant Pass (behind Edith Cavell), and Edith Cavell Meadows.   The area can be very busy in summer and the parking area is often full.   Many tourists walk to Cavell Lake to photograph Angel Glacier and look at Cavell Pond.   The trails climb through moraines to the forest and above to meadows.   A few people hike to the top of the ridge for the wide views.

On the way up the meadows, we go through a large moraine-talus slope.   This is a good place to watch for pikas.   It is a good trail that is moderately graded, well-signed and with a few route options.   The upper meadows may have marmots and wildflowers.   The way to the top of the ridge is steep, but on a nice day, the views extend east to the Maligne Range and south down the Icefields Parkway.

We hike this trail if we only have a half-day to get out.   It is a very nice area, but the crowds are constant.    Ideally, an early morning start and brunch on top of the ridge on a sunny day is the best option.

Angel Glacier

Franchere Peak to the north

Cavell pond

Cavell Glacier

The weeping wall

Bergs below Angel Glacier

Pika