Wapiti Pass facts for kids

Wapiti Pass is a mountain pass located in the Northern Rocky Mountains of British Columbia, Canada. A mountain pass is like a low spot or a gap between mountains, making it easier to travel from one side to another. This pass is found near the start of the Wapiti River.

Wapiti Pass is situated to the east of Wapiti Lake Provincial Park. It is also northeast of a city called Prince George. To its west, you'll find Monkman Provincial Park.

What is Wapiti Pass?

Wapiti Pass is a natural pathway through the rugged Canadian Rockies. It sits at an elevation of 1,375 meters (about 4,511 feet) above sea level. This makes it a high point in the landscape, surrounded by tall mountains.

Where is Wapiti Pass Located?

This pass is in the province of British Columbia, Canada. It's part of the larger Canadian Rockies mountain range. The pass is quite remote, meaning it's far from big cities and towns. It's a wild and natural area.

Nearby Parks and Rivers

The pass is very close to two important provincial parks. Wapiti Lake Provincial Park is right next to it on the east. Monkman Provincial Park is located to the west. The pass also marks the beginning of the Wapiti River, which flows out of the mountains.

Why Was Wapiti Pass Not Used for Travel?

Even though mountain passes often become routes for roads or railways, Wapiti Pass is different. There are no roads or railway tracks that cross this pass today. It remains a wild and untouched area.

Early Railway Surveys

A long time ago, before the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway was built, engineers looked at Wapiti Pass. They also surveyed Monkman Pass, another nearby mountain pass. They were trying to find the best route for the new railway across Canada.

Choosing Yellowhead Pass

After careful study, the railway company decided not to use Wapiti Pass. Instead, they chose the Yellowhead Pass. Yellowhead Pass is located further to the southeast. It was likely a more suitable or easier route for building the railway at that time.