Rising From the Ashes : Jasper Since the Fires
When the Jasper Wildfire swept through in July 2024, it ripped its way deep through Jasper, Alberta destroying over 300 buildings which is about a third of the town. Yet even in destruction Jasper is showing just how resilient a community can be.
Marmot Basin: A Hill Untouched
One of the small miracles is that Marmot Basin itself was spared structural damage. All its buildings, ski lifts, and main facilities were missed by the fires. The wildfire came dangerously close, but the flames never touched the resort’s core infrastructure. This has made Marmot a focal point for recovery — both symbolically and practically. Of course, that doesn’t mean life at Marmot has been easy. Utilities were disrupted, staff has been deeply affected — and snowmaking resources were depleted in firefighting efforts.
Rebuilding Jasper — Principles, Plans, and Phases
Jasper’s path forward is being carefully navigated. Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper have launched a multi-phase rebuild plan, with guiding values focused on:
- Making rebuilding easier.
- Rebuilding with wildfire risk in mind — integrating FireSmart practices to build more resilient structures.
- Increasing housing supply,both for short term and longer term needs.
- Emphasizing sustainability and being resistant against the changing climate.
- Preserving the character of Jasper — its natural beauty, its built form, its identity.
Temp housing has already been a major piece of getting life back to” normal.” Parks Canada has made over 4 hectares of land available for housing uses. Dorm‑style units, duplexes, and pre‐built homes are being found to bring people back home as quickly as possible.
Marmot’s Role in Community Healing
Because Marmot Basin was spared structurally, its reopening is more than just about skiing. It’s about community, morale, and economy. People are drawn to the mountain as a place of freedom, healing, and a reminder of what was preserved. The resort’s goal to open for the 2024‑25 season, though ambitious, was embraced by many as a sign that Jasper intends not just to survive, but to thrive again. Marmot Basin stands as both a metaphor and a functional part of recovery. Its slopes are open, its lifts still spin, and for many, that means Jasper is still alive and well.
What’s Next — Challenges & Hopes
Life isn't fully back to normal yet. It will take time, money, and huge efforts to rebuild Jasper into the thriving town that it is known for. Despite the damage and mayhem, there is hope, and there is a positive future for the town and community. The trajectory is upwards and that is what allows the town to keep morale high!