Mount Temple (Alberta) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Temple |
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North face of Mt. Temple from Mt. Fairview
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 3,544 m (11,627 ft) |
| Prominence | 1,544 m (5,066 ft) |
| Listing |
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| Geography | |
 Mount Temple
Location in Alberta
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| Parent range | Bow Range |
| Topo map | NTS 82N/08 |
| Geology | |
| Age of rock | 550 million years |
| Mountain type | Quartzite and limestone |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | 1894 by Walter Wilcox, Samuel Allen and L.F. Frissel |
| Easiest route | Scramble (SW) |
Mount Temple is a tall mountain located in Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies. It is found in Alberta, Canada.
This mountain stands in the Bow River Valley, between Paradise Creek and Moraine Creek. It is the highest peak in the Lake Louise area. Mount Temple is a very noticeable landmark from the Trans-Canada Highway, especially when driving from Castle Junction towards Lake Louise.
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History of Mount Temple
The mountain was named in 1884 by George Mercer Dawson. He named it after Sir Richard Temple, who visited the Canadian Rockies that same year. Mount Temple was the first peak over 3,353 meters (11,000 feet) to be climbed in the Canadian part of the Rocky Mountains.
Safety on Mount Temple
Mount Temple is a beautiful but challenging mountain. It is important for climbers to be well-prepared and have the right gear. They should also always climb with experienced leaders.
- In 1955, a sad accident happened on the mountain. A group of teenagers faced an avalanche while climbing. This event showed how important it is to have proper equipment, like ice axes, and to always have experienced leaders with you on a climb.
Climbing Routes on Mount Temple
Mount Temple offers different ways to reach its top. The easiest way is usually on the southwest side. This route is known as a moderate scrambling route. Scrambling is like hiking but involves using your hands for balance on rocky parts.
- South-West Ridge (Normal Route)
- By late July or early August, this route usually has less snow. It is a moderate scramble for climbers who have some experience.
- East Ridge
- North Face, Elzinga/Miller
- North East Buttress, Greenwood/Jones
- This is one of the more secure routes on the north side of the mountain.
You can find out about the current climbing conditions from a park warden. They are at the information center in Lake Louise. There is also a logbook outside the center where climbers share their experiences.
First Climbs to the Top
- First Ascent: On August 17, 1894, Walter D. Wilcox, Samuel E. S. Allen, and Lewis Frissell were the first to reach the summit. This was a big achievement because it was the first time anyone had climbed a peak over 3,353 meters (11,000 feet) in the Canadian Rockies.
- First Winter Ascent: On January 2, 1969, James Jones and Dave Haley made the first climb to the top during winter. They used the Southwest Ridge route.
