Sunwapta Falls facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sunwapta Falls |
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| Location | Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada |
| Type | Class 6 |
| Total height | 18.5 m |
| Total width | 30 ft (9.1 m) |
| Watercourse | Sunwapta River |
Sunwapta Falls is a stunning set of waterfalls in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada. These powerful falls are part of the Sunwapta River. The name "Sunwapta" comes from the Stoney language. It means "turbulent water," which perfectly describes the falls!
Sunwapta Falls: A Powerful Pair
Sunwapta Falls is a popular natural wonder. It is known for its strong currents and beautiful setting. The falls drop about 18.5 meters (60 feet) in height. They are especially impressive in late spring. This is when the snow and ice from the mountains melt.
Location and Access
Sunwapta Falls is located in the beautiful Jasper National Park. This park is in Alberta, Canada. You can reach the falls easily from the Icefields Parkway. This famous road connects Jasper and Banff National Parks. A short road, about 600 meters (2,000 feet) long, leads right to the falls.
The Upper and Lower Falls
There are actually two main parts to Sunwapta Falls: an upper section and a lower section. Most visitors see the upper falls. This is because it is much easier to get to. The lower falls are a short distance away. They offer a different view of the powerful water.
The water that feeds these falls comes from the Athabasca Glacier. This is a large glacier in the Rocky Mountains. Because of this, the water levels are highest in early summer. This is when the glacial ice melts the most. Sunwapta Falls is classified as a Class 6 waterfall. This means it is a significant and powerful waterfall. It has a drop of about 18.5 meters (60 feet) and is about 9 meters (30 feet) wide.
