Who were the first White Men to explore the Canadian Rockies?
- A group of French explorers led by Chevalier de Niverville
- A group of English explorers led by James Cook
- A group of Spanish explorers led by Francisco Vásquez de Coronado
- A group of Russian explorers led by Vitus Bering
Correct Answer: A group of French explorers led by Chevalier de Niverville
Correct Answer Explanation: The first European explorers to venture into the Canadian Rockies were a group of French voyageurs led by Chevalier de Niverville in 1751.
What fort did Niverville build in the foothills of the Rockies?
- Fort Astoria
- Fort Vancouver
- Fort Edmonton
- Fort Lajonquière
Correct Answer: Fort Lajonquière
Correct Answer Explanation: Niverville established Fort Lajonquière in the foothills of the Rockies, marking the beginning of European presence in the region.
Which explorer predated Niverville’s exploration of the Rockies?
- Pierre Gaultier de Varennes, sieur de La Vérendrye
- Alexander Mackenzie
- David Thompson
- Simon Fraser
Correct Answer: Pierre Gaultier de Varennes, sieur de La Vérendrye
Correct Answer Explanation: Pierre Gaultier de Varennes, sieur de La Vérendrye, was an explorer who preceded Niverville’s exploration of the Rockies.
What year did Alexander Mackenzie become the first White Man to traverse the Rockies and reach the Pacific Ocean?
- 1793
- 1805
- 1846
- 1885
Correct Answer: 1793
Correct Answer Explanation: In 1793, Alexander Mackenzie, a Scottish explorer and fur trader, became the first European to traverse the Rocky Mountains and reach the Pacific Ocean.
What company played a key role in expanding exploration and trade routes through the Rockies?
- The Hudson’s Bay Company
- The North West Company
- The American Fur Company
- The Canadian Pacific Railway
Correct Answer: The North West Company
Correct Answer Explanation: The North West Company, a major player in the fur trade, was instrumental in expanding exploration and trade routes through the Rockies.
Who discovered the Athabaska Pass, a significant fur trade route?
- Alexander Mackenzie
- David Thompson
- Simon Fraser
- John Palliser
Correct Answer: David Thompson
Correct Answer Explanation: David Thompson, a renowned astronomer and explorer for the North West Company, discovered the Athabaska Pass, a significant fur trade route.
What river did Simon Fraser explore and navigate?
- The Columbia River
- The Fraser River
- The Athabasca River
- The Saskatchewan River
Correct Answer: The Fraser River
Correct Answer Explanation: Simon Fraser explored and navigated the Fraser River, descending its canyons in a fragile canoe.
What expedition conducted a comprehensive exploration of the Rocky Mountains in the 1850s and 1860s?
- The Lewis and Clark Expedition
- The Palliser Expedition
- The Pike Expedition
- The Mackenzie Expedition
Correct Answer: The Palliser Expedition
Correct Answer Explanation: The Palliser Expedition, led by Captain John Palliser, conducted a comprehensive exploration of the Rocky Mountains in the 1850s and 1860s.
Which pass was initially chosen as the route for the Canadian Pacific Railway?
- Kicking Horse Pass
- Athabaska Pass
- Rogers Pass
- Yellowhead Pass
Correct Answer: Kicking Horse Pass
Correct Answer Explanation: The Kicking Horse Pass, named by Dr. James Hector, was initially chosen as the route for the Canadian Pacific Railway.
What role did the Canadian Geological Survey play in the Canadian Rockies?
- They developed the first detailed maps of the region
- They discovered and named the Kicking Horse Pass
- They established the first national parks in the region
- They built the first railway line through the region
Correct Answer: They developed the first detailed maps of the region
Correct Answer Explanation: The Canadian Geological Survey played a vital role in mapping and understanding the geology and geography of the Canadian Rockies.
What year was the Canadian Pacific Railway completed?
- 1867
- 1885
- 1914
- 1918
Correct Answer: 1885
Correct Answer Explanation: The completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885 spurred the establishment of national parks in the Rockies, making the region accessible to a wider audience.
What hotel, built by the Canadian Pacific Railway, became a popular destination for tourists seeking luxurious accommodation amidst stunning mountain scenery?
- The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
- The Banff Springs Hotel
- The Jasper Park Lodge
- The Emerald Lake Lodge
Correct Answer: The Banff Springs Hotel
Correct Answer Explanation: The Banff Springs Hotel, built by the Canadian Pacific Railway, became a popular destination for tourists seeking luxurious accommodation amidst stunning mountain scenery.
What lake, renowned for its turquoise waters and breathtaking views, was named after Princess Louise, the wife of the Governor General of Canada?
- Lake Louise
- Lake Agnes
- Lake Moraine
- Lake Maligne
Correct Answer: Lake Louise
Correct Answer Explanation: Lake Louise, renowned for its turquoise waters and breathtaking views, was named after Princess Louise, the wife of the Governor General of Canada.
Which mountain, known as the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” is a majestic peak that attracts experienced mountaineers?
- Mount Stephen
- Mount Assiniboine
- Mount Robson
- Mount Sir Donald
Correct Answer: Mount Assiniboine
Correct Answer Explanation: Mount Assiniboine, known as the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” is a majestic peak that attracts experienced mountaineers.
Which mountain, offering panoramic views, is one of the most climbed peaks in the Canadian Rockies?
- Mount Assiniboine
- Mount Stephen
- Mount Robson
- Mount Sir Donald
Correct Answer: Mount Stephen
Correct Answer Explanation: Mount Stephen, accessible and offering panoramic views, is one of the most climbed peaks in the Canadian Rockies.
What pass, located in the Selkirk Mountains, is a significant pass for both the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Trans-Canada Highway?
- Kicking Horse Pass
- Athabaska Pass
- Rogers Pass
- Yellowhead Pass
Correct Answer: Rogers Pass
Correct Answer Explanation: Rogers Pass, located in the Selkirk Mountains, is a significant pass for both the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Trans-Canada Highway.
What glacier, located near Glacier House in Glacier National Park, is a prominent feature of the Selkirk Mountains?
- Illecillewaet Glacier
- Athabasca Glacier
- Peyto Glacier
- Wapta Glacier
Correct Answer: Illecillewaet Glacier
Correct Answer Explanation: The Illecillewaet Glacier, located near Glacier House in Glacier National Park, is a prominent feature of the Selkirk Mountains.
Which mountain, towering over Glacier House, is one of the most popular peaks for mountaineers in the Canadian Alps?
- Mount Assiniboine
- Mount Stephen
- Mount Robson
- Mount Sir Donald
Correct Answer: Mount Sir Donald
Correct Answer Explanation: Mount Sir Donald, towering over Glacier House, is one of the most popular peaks for mountaineers in the Canadian Alps.
Where were the Nakimu Caves discovered accidentally?
- In the Selkirk Mountains
- In the Purcell Mountains
- In the Rocky Mountains
- In the Columbia Mountains
Correct Answer: In the Selkirk Mountains
Correct Answer Explanation: The Nakimu Caves, discovered accidentally in the Selkirk Mountains, offer a stark contrast to the region’s grandeur, showcasing a subterranean world of darkness and rushing water.
Which mountain, standing at over 13,000 feet, is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and commands awe-inspiring views?
- Mount Stephen
- Mount Assiniboine
- Mount Robson
- Mount Sir Donald
Correct Answer: Mount Robson
Correct Answer Explanation: Mount Robson, standing at over 13,000 feet, is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and commands awe-inspiring views.
How many visitors registered in Banff during the 1913 season?
- 25,000
- 50,000
- 75,000
- 100,000
Correct Answer: 75,000
Correct Answer Explanation: Approximately 75,000 visitors registered in Banff during the 1913 season.
What is the original area of Rocky Mountains Park, established in 1887?
- 5,000 square miles
- 1,800 square miles
- 1,000 square miles
- 560 square miles
Correct Answer: 5,000 square miles
Correct Answer Explanation: The park, originally established in 1887, covers an area of 1,800 square miles, although plans are underway to expand it to the original 5,000 square miles.
What is the approximate area of Yoho Park, located in British Columbia?
- 560 square miles
- 1,000 square miles
- 1,800 square miles
- 5,000 square miles
Correct Answer: 560 square miles
Correct Answer Explanation: Yoho Park, located in British Columbia, encompasses about 560 square miles.
What is the approximate area of Glacier National Park, located in the Selkirk Mountains?
- 560 square miles
- 1,000 square miles
- 468 square miles
- 160 square miles
Correct Answer: 468 square miles
Correct Answer Explanation: Glacier National Park, located in the Selkirk Mountains, covers 468 square miles.
What is the approximate area of Jasper Park, established in the early 20th century?
- 1,000 square miles
- 560 square miles
- 468 square miles
- 160 square miles
Correct Answer: 1,000 square miles
Correct Answer Explanation: Jasper Park, established in the early 20th century, covers 1,000 square miles, but is expected to expand significantly in the near future.
What is the approximate area of Buffalo Park, established in Alberta?
- 160 square miles
- 468 square miles
- 1,000 square miles
- 5,000 square miles
Correct Answer: 160 square miles
Correct Answer Explanation: Buffalo Park, established in Alberta, covers 160 square miles and is home to a herd of over 1,200 bison.
What is the approximate area of Elk Island Park, located near Lamont, Alberta?
- 160 square miles
- 468 square miles
- 1,000 square miles
- 5,000 square miles
Correct Answer: 160 square miles
Correct Answer Explanation: Elk Island Park, located near Lamont, Alberta, covers a similar area to Waterton Lake Park and provides a sanctuary for elk, moose, and other wildlife.
What is the total mileage of carriage roads in the four main parks, Rocky Mountains, Yoho, Glacier, and Jasper?
- 163 miles
- 300 miles
- 463 miles
- 600 miles
Correct Answer: 163 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: The four main parks, Rocky Mountains, Yoho, Glacier, and Jasper, boast 163 miles of carriage road and nearly 300 miles of trail.
What is the approximate length of the planned automobile road from Calgary to Vancouver?
- 300 miles
- 463 miles
- 600 miles
- 1,000 miles
Correct Answer: 600 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: The planned automobile road from Calgary to Vancouver, a scenic route traversing the mountains, will be approximately 600 miles long.
What is the elevation of Mount Stephen above Field, the headquarters of Yoho Park?
- 4,400 feet
- 5,400 feet
- 6,400 feet
- 7,400 feet
Correct Answer: 6,400 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Mount Stephen rises 6,400 feet above Field, the headquarters of Yoho Park.
What is the height of Takakkaw Falls, a magnificent waterfall in Yoho Valley?
- 500 feet
- 750 feet
- 1,000 feet
- 1,250 feet
Correct Answer: 1,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Takakkaw Falls, a magnificent waterfall in Yoho Valley, drops almost 1,000 feet from a cliff edge.
What is the elevation of Mount Sir Donald, a popular mountain climb in Glacier Park?
- 9,808 feet
- 10,808 feet
- 11,808 feet
- 12,808 feet
Correct Answer: 10,808 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Mount Sir Donald, a popular mountain climb in Glacier Park, reaches 10,808 feet above sea level.
What is the elevation of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies?
- 12,000 feet
- 13,000 feet
- 14,000 feet
- 15,000 feet
Correct Answer: 13,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, rises over 13,000 feet above sea level.
What is the revised elevation of Mount Brown, located near Athabaska Pass?
- 9,050 feet
- 10,050 feet
- 11,050 feet
- 12,050 feet
Correct Answer: 9,050 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Mount Brown, located near Athabaska Pass, has a revised elevation of 9,050 feet, correcting the previous overestimate of 16,000 to 17,000 feet.
What year was Mount Tupper, in Glacier Park, successfully climbed?
- 1903
- 1906
- 1909
- 1912
Correct Answer: 1906
Correct Answer Explanation: Mount Tupper, in Glacier Park, was successfully climbed in 1906, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains.
What is the approximate height of the Punch Bowl Waterfall, a striking waterfall near Pocahontas?
- 50 feet
- 75 feet
- 100 feet
- 125 feet
Correct Answer: 100 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The Punch Bowl Waterfall, a striking waterfall near Pocahontas, drops from a cliff face over a hundred feet.
What is the temperature range of the Miette Hot Springs, in Jasper Park?
- 92 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit
- 102 to 118 degrees Fahrenheit
- 112 to 128 degrees Fahrenheit
- 122 to 138 degrees Fahrenheit
Correct Answer: 112 to 128 degrees Fahrenheit
Correct Answer Explanation: The Miette Hot Springs, in Jasper Park, have temperatures ranging from 112 to 128 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the approximate elevation of Bighorn Pass, a challenging trail route in Jasper Park?
- 7,000 feet
- 8,000 feet
- 9,000 feet
- 10,000 feet
Correct Answer: 8,000 feet
Correct Answer Explanation: Bighorn Pass, a challenging trail route in Jasper Park, reaches over 8,000 feet above sea level.
What is the length of Maligne Lake, a breathtaking lake in Jasper Park?
- 5 miles
- 10 miles
- 15 miles
- 20 miles
Correct Answer: 15 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: Maligne Lake, a breathtaking lake in Jasper Park, stretches for miles, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
What is the size range of trout found in Jack Lake?
- 1 to 3 pounds
- 2 to 5 pounds
- 3 to 7 pounds
- 4 to 9 pounds
Correct Answer: 2 to 5 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: Jack Lake, renowned for its abundant trout, holds large fish ranging from 2 to 5 pounds.
What were French-Canadian fur traders and explorers known for?
- Their knowledge of the wilderness and their skills in navigating rivers and lakes
- Their use of horses for transportation
- Their ability to communicate with Native Americans
- Their expertise in hunting and trapping
Correct Answer: Their knowledge of the wilderness and their skills in navigating rivers and lakes
Correct Answer Explanation: Voyageurs were French-Canadian fur traders and explorers who were renowned for their knowledge of the wilderness and their skills in navigating rivers and lakes.
What type of pony was used by Native Americans and early explorers in the West?
- Appaloosa
- Mustang
- Cayuse
- Quarter Horse
Correct Answer: Cayuse
Correct Answer Explanation: A Cayuse is a type of pony used by Native Americans and early explorers in the West, known for its strength, endurance, and sure-footedness on rugged terrain.
What is a traditional food of Native Americans and fur traders in the West, consisting of dried meat, berries, and fat?
- Jerky
- Pemmican
- Bannock
- Succotash
Correct Answer: Pemmican
Correct Answer Explanation: Pemmican is a traditional food of Native Americans and fur traders in the West, consisting of dried meat, berries, and fat, providing a dense source of nutrition for long journeys.
What is the term for a type of granular snow, often found in high mountain areas, that forms the basis for glaciers?
- Firn
- Névé
- Glacier ice
- Snowdrift
Correct Answer: Névé
Correct Answer Explanation: Névé is a type of granular snow, often found in high mountain areas, that forms the basis for glaciers.
What is the term for a narrow, steep ridge found on mountains?
- Cirque
- Arête
- Horn
- Col
Correct Answer: Arête
Correct Answer Explanation: An arête is a narrow, steep ridge found on mountains, often forming a challenging route for climbers.
What is the term for a large, overhanging shelf of snow that forms on the edges of mountain ridges?
- Cornice
- Bergschrund
- Crevasse
- Avalanche
Correct Answer: Cornice
Correct Answer Explanation: A cornice is a large, overhanging shelf of snow that forms on the edges of mountain ridges, often posing a significant risk to climbers.
What is the term for a narrow, steep gully found on mountains, often containing snow or ice?
- Couloir
- Cirque
- Moraine
- Talus
Correct Answer: Couloir
Correct Answer Explanation: A couloir is a narrow, steep gully found on mountains, often containing snow or ice, and used as a route by climbers.
What is the term for a small, isolated tower of rock or ice found on mountain ridges?
- Gendarme
- Arete
- Horn
- Col
Correct Answer: Gendarme
Correct Answer Explanation: A gendarme is a small, isolated tower of rock or ice found on mountain ridges, often presenting a challenging obstacle for climbers.
What is the term for a type of bog or swamp, often found in northern regions, characterized by spongy, wet ground and acidic water?
- Muskeg
- Tundra
- Taiga
- Prairie
Correct Answer: Muskeg
Correct Answer Explanation: Muskeg is a type of bog or swamp, often found in northern regions, characterized by spongy, wet ground and acidic water.