Jasper residents will be able to hike near their town once again after Parks Canada reopened Pyramid Bench trails to the west of the townsite on Saturday (Aug. 24).
Non-residents are not permitted to use these trails, with Parks Canada reminding the public that Jasper National Park remains under an area closure and is not ready to welcome visitors back.
“While the Icefields Parkway (93N) and Highway 16 are open, there are no services available to support visitors and stopping is not permitted,” said Alexandria Jones, spokesperson for Parks Canada, in an email.
“These trails are being opened to provide space for residents to connect with nature during this difficult time.”
Prior to opening these trails, fire specialists assessed the area for hazards, dangerous trees and debris to reduce risk to the public.
While dangerous trees were marked and then cut down, Jones warned that inclement weather and gusty winds can cause unstable trees to fall.
Residents should use caution when recreating in fire-impacted areas.
“As there is wildfire damage to the area surrounding Pyramid Bench, many trails remain closed until Parks Canada can assess and remove hazardous trees from affected areas,” Jones said.
“For your safety, please stay out of closed areas. We appreciate everyone’s patience in respecting park closures and restrictions.”
The Pyramid Bench area is only accessible by road. Trail 15 remains closed, as does both Pyramid Mountain and the Palisade Lookout.
All trails on the eastern side of the townsite remain under an area closure.
The only trails in Jasper National Park open to the public are Toe of the Glacier at Athabasca Glacier and Source of the Springs near Miette Hot Springs.
Jones said there was no estimated reopening date for any other recreational trails, and resources were focused on fire suppression and recovery efforts.
