Jasper welcomes visitors to embrace the landscape with fire

Exploring Jasper National Park After the Fire

As I stood atop Whistler’s Mountain, the wind blowing through my hair, I gazed out at the vast expanse of the Rockies stretching into the horizon. Below me, the charred remnants of last year’s devastating fire in Jasper National Park were visible, a stark reminder of nature’s power.

During my ride on the Jasper Skytram, ascending over 2,200 meters up the mountain, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I reached the summit. But as I looked out at the blackened tree trunks scattered across the valley below, I felt a mix of awe and trepidation. The fire had ravaged a significant portion of the area, destroying hundreds of structures and leaving a lasting impact on the landscape.

Despite the destruction, the resilient spirit of Jasper shone through. The local tourism industry, vital for the city and the park’s economy, has embraced the aftermath of the fire as a way to help visitors appreciate the area in a new light. Whether on a wilderness tour or a round of golf at the Jasper Park Lodge, exploring the effects of the fire has become a way to reconnect with the natural beauty of the region.

As I ventured on a tour of Maligne Canyon with our guide, Seb Traczyk, he pointed out how the burnt-out forest, once seen as a tragedy, had actually become healthier. The fire had cleared out dense vegetation, allowing sunlight to reach the forest floor and promote new growth. We even spotted wildlife thriving in the rejuvenated landscape, a testament to nature’s resilience.

One of the most impactful experiences during my visit was a “Hireside chat” hosted by Warrior Women, a tour company on indigenous land. Matricia Bauer, a Cree woman and owner of the company, spoke about the importance of storytelling and connection in indigenous culture. Despite the challenges posed by the fire, she emphasized the need to embrace change and move forward with optimism.

On the golf course at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, the fire had revealed the original vision of designer Stanley Thompson. The burnt trees had opened up new vistas and restored the course to its former glory, providing golfers with a unique perspective on the landscape.

Throughout Jasper, signs of recovery and renewal were everywhere. From bustling breweries to cozy cafes, the community was coming together to rebuild and move forward. As our Skytram operator aptly put it, “The best life is after a fire.”

If you’re planning a visit to Jasper, be sure to check out the iconic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, explore the Forest Park Hotel, and take a ride on the Jasper Skytram for breathtaking views. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a wildlife tour or sample local cuisine at the Olive bistro or Jasper Brewing Co.

Jasper is a place of resilience and hope, where the scars of the fire serve as a reminder of the strength of nature and the human spirit. Embrace the journey of recovery and renewal, and you’ll discover a community that has emerged stronger and more united than ever before.