Decision reflects consideration of ecological integrity, visitor experience and Canada’s National Conservation Plan
Jasper National Park – Today Parks Canada has accepted 13 of the 14 elements of the Maligne Tours’ concept for redevelopment for further considerations, including tent cabins and additional visitor experience offers. These elements offer the potential to support Parks Canada’s commitment to the National Conservation Plan by connecting Canadians to nature, encouraging Canadians to experience their national parks and cultural places, and offering enhanced experiences with an iconic landscape. They also offer potential to improve communication and interpretation about the Maligne Valley, as identified as a key goal in the approved Jasper National Park Management Plan (2010).
Parks Canada has declined the proposed heritage themed roofed accommodation in Jasper National Park. This decision reflects extensive input from the public, stakeholders and Aboriginal groups, and consideration of the proposals’ contributions to visitor experience, ecological integrity, public education, and the goals of Canada’s National Conservation Plan.
Advancing the concept of tent cabins for more detailed review will coincide with a park management plan amendment to allow for release of necessary lands, and each element advanced would be subject to an environmental impact assessment and public and Aboriginal review prior to final determination.
Quick Facts
• Maligne Lake is the largest lake in Jasper National Park (22 km long) and the deepest (97 m). The area offers exceptional hiking and fishing opportunities.
• An estimated 380,000 visitors make the trip up the Maligne Road every year. The vast majority of these visitors – approximately 360,000 – come to the valley during the summer.
• Every year, almost two million Canadians and visitors from around the world visit Jasper National Park to sight-see, enjoy iconic Rocky Mountain scenery, and connect to nature.
• Jasper National Park, the largest of Canada’s mountain national parks at more than 11,000 km2, is part of one of the finest and most extensive systems of protected natural areas in the world.
“Parks Canada supports the National Conservation Plan by conserving and protecting Canada’s special places and connecting Canadians to nature. Today’s decision reflects our pledge to ensure our protected natural and cultural heritage remain unimpaired for future generations, while facilitating ways for people to meaningfully connect with and learn about nature.” ~ Greg Fenton, Field Unit Superintendent, Jasper National Park
(Parks Canada)