Roche Miette facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Roche Miette |
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![]() Roche Miette
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 2,316 m (7,598 ft) |
Prominence | 45 m (148 ft) |
Listing | Mountains of Alberta |
Geography | |
Location | Jasper National Park Alberta, Canada |
Parent range | Miette Range Canadian Rockies |
Topo map | NTS 83F/04 |
Type of rock | sedimentary rock |
Climbing | |
Easiest route | Scrambling |
Roche Miette is a mountain in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada. It stands 2,316 meters (7,598 feet) tall. This peak is at the northwest end of the Miette Range, which is part of the amazing Canadian Rockies.
The mountain is a well-known landmark in the Athabasca Valley. It's about 30 kilometers (19 miles) north-northeast of the town of Jasper. You can easily spot it from Highway 16 and from the Canadian train. The name Roche Miette means "Crumb Rock" in French.
Contents
Exploring Roche Miette's Past
Who First Climbed Roche Miette?
According to old stories and James Hector, a man named Bonhomme Miette was the first to climb this mountain. Bonhomme Miette was a French Canadian voyageur, which means he was a traveler and trader. He was also a very talented fiddler (someone who plays the fiddle). He climbed the mountain from its south side. The nearby Fiddle River and Fiddle Range are named after him.
What Did People Say About Roche Miette?
In 1907, a writer named Arthur P. Coleman described Roche Miette. He said it looked like a strong fort with very tall walls that were impossible to climb. He thought it had a flat top that looked like a castle wall with openings.
The mountain's name, Roche Miette, was officially recognized in 1956. This was done by the Geographical Names Board of Canada.
Understanding Roche Miette's Rocks
What Kind of Rocks Make Up the Mountain?
Roche Miette is made of sedimentary rock. This type of rock forms when layers of sand, mud, and other materials build up over millions of years. These layers were laid down during the Precambrian and Jurassic periods.
Later, during a time called the Laramide orogeny, these rock layers were pushed up. They even moved east and slid over younger rocks. The very top part of the mountain is made of a specific type of limestone called Palliser Formation.
Weather Around Roche Miette
What is the Climate Like?
Roche Miette has a subarctic climate. This means it has very cold, snowy winters. The summers are usually mild. Temperatures can drop below -20 °C ( -4 °F). With the wind, it can feel even colder, sometimes below -30 °C (-22 °F).
When is the Best Time to Visit?
If you want to climb the mountain, the best months are from June through September. This is when the weather is most favorable. Any rain or melting snow from Roche Miette flows into the Athabasca River.