Mount Byng facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Byng |
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![]() Mount Byng from Wonder Pass
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 2,965 m (9,728 ft) |
Prominence | 510 m (1,670 ft) |
Parent peak | Mount Alcantara (3029 m) |
Listing | Mountains of Alberta |
Geography | |
Location | Alberta, Canada |
Parent range | Blue Range Canadian Rockies |
Topo map | NTS 82J/13 |
Geology | |
Age of rock | Cambrian |
Type of rock | Sedimentary rock |
Climbing | |
First ascent | 1934, H.S. Crosby, Rudolph Aemmer |
Easiest route | Scrambling |
Mount Byng is a tall mountain in Canada. It stands 2,965 meters (about 9,728 feet) high. You can find it in the beautiful Banff National Park in Alberta. This park is part of the Canadian Rockies, a huge mountain range. Mount Byng is the highest point in a smaller group of mountains called the Blue Range. It's not far from other big peaks like Mount Alcantara and the famous Mount Assiniboine.
Contents
Discovering Mount Byng's History
Who Was Mount Byng Named After?
Mount Byng got its name in 1918. It was named after Julian Byng, 1st Viscount Byng of Vimy. He was a very important British military leader, known as a Field Marshal. During the First World War, he led the Canadian Corps. Later, he became the Governor General of Canada, which is like the Queen's representative in Canada.
When Was the Name Made Official?
The mountain's name became official in 1928. This was decided by the Geographical Names Board of Canada. This board helps make sure all places in Canada have clear and correct names.
Who First Climbed Mount Byng?
The very first ascent (or climb to the top) of Mount Byng happened in 1934. A climber named H.S. Crosby reached the summit. He was helped by a guide named Rudolph Aemmer.
Understanding Mount Byng's Geology
How Did Mount Byng Form?
Mount Byng is made of sedimentary rock. This type of rock forms over millions of years from layers of sand, mud, and tiny bits of ancient plants and animals. These layers were laid down during the Precambrian to Jurassic periods. Imagine huge sheets of rock forming flat, one on top of the other.
Later, a big event called the Laramide orogeny happened. This was a time when powerful forces deep inside the Earth pushed the land upwards. These forces caused the older rock layers to move east. They even pushed them over the top of younger rock layers. This process created the amazing mountains we see today, including Mount Byng!
Exploring Mount Byng's Climate
What is the Weather Like on Mount Byng?
Mount Byng has a subarctic climate. This means it has very cold and snowy winters. The summers are usually mild, not too hot. Temperatures can drop below −20 degrees Celsius (which is about -4 degrees Fahrenheit). With the wind, it can feel even colder, sometimes below −30 degrees Celsius (-22 degrees Fahrenheit).
When is the Best Time to Visit Mount Byng?
If you want to climb Mount Byng, the best time to go is from June through September. The weather is usually much better and safer for outdoor activities during these months.
Where Does the Water Go From Mount Byng?
Rain and melting snow on Mount Byng create runoff. This water flows into two creeks: Owl Creek and Currie Creek. These creeks then empty into the Spray Lakes Reservoir. A reservoir is like a big lake that stores water, often used for power or drinking water.