Edward Whymper spent a considerable amount of time in the Yoho Valley, exploring, climbing, and planning the trail system for the CPR. During one of his visits he named Whaleback Mountain and the reason for his choice is understandable from Spiral Tunnels viewpoint part way up "The Big Hill." The smooth ridge is not a high feature but it does form the skyline to the right of Isolated Peak and its profile clearly resembles that of the back of a whale. The lowpoint to the west of the mountain and east of Isolated Peak is known as Isolated Col. Interesting rock pinnacles in the col are referred to as the Cat's Ears.