Jasper Wildfires

Vancouver, July 26th, 2024

Dear HI Canada Members,

I have very sad news to share. This morning, we received confirmation that our newest hostel, HI Jasper, which opened in 2019, was destroyed in the wildfire burning through Jasper National Park. The wildfire, driven by extreme weather conditions, reached the town of Jasper Wednesday evening and has resulted in the total loss of HI Jasper.

We have also learned that a very special wilderness hostel, HI Athabasca Falls, located 30 km south of Jasper, has also been heavily damaged by the fires.

Our deepest gratitude goes out to the firefighters, first responders, and volunteers who continue to work tirelessly to combat the wildfires and ensure the safety of the area. They are our heroes and we wish them strength and safety in the work that lies ahead.

At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting our displaced staff and guests. HI Canada is committed to offering them assistance and support during this difficult time.

As many of you know firsthand, both HI Athabasca Falls and HI Jasper were much-loved hostels in our network, offering breathtaking access and experiences within Jasper National Park. Although we are heartbroken today, we look forward to the future when we can rebuild in Jasper National Park, continuing our mission to bring together travellers from around the world to experience this very extraordinary place.

We will continue to monitor this crisis closely and provide updates as more information becomes available. Our network operates three other hostels in Jasper National Park, including HI Beauty Creek, HI Maligne Canyon and HI Mount Edith Cavell. The situation remains volatile, and we are very aware that some of these hostels are also at risk.

If the wildfires affect your upcoming stay with us, please contact our reservations team at [email protected] or call 1-866.762.4122.

On behalf of my fellow board members and staff, we thank you for your continued support.

Warm regards,

Lenore Neudorf
Board Chair
Hostelling International Canada

Previous updates

Vancouver, July 25th, 2024

Dear HI Canada Members,

I know we’re all feeling a mix of tremendous sadness and anxiety regarding the wildfire situation in the town of Jasper and Jasper National Park. The distressing images we've seen in the media weigh heavily on our hearts, and our thoughts are with the entire Jasper community as they face this crisis. We extend our support and thanks to the first responders and volunteers bravely battling this devastating wildfire, hoping for their continued strength and safety during these challenging times.

We are actively seeking information about the status of HI Jasper and the extent of the damage it may have sustained in last night’s fire. We seek similar information about HI Athabasca Falls and our other three hostels in Jasper National Park. While we wait for further details, I am relieved to share that our staff and guests were safely evacuated on Monday night thanks to the incredible efforts of our hostel teams in Jasper. The HI Canada Board of Directors will continue to work closely with management to ensure the best possible outcome for guests and staff.

While our buildings may be at risk, and we possibly face the loss of hostels beloved by many of us, the spirit of hostelling and our belief in the hostelling movement remain unwavering. Your HI Canada Board and staff are steadfast in their commitment to our mission: providing spaces for travellers, both near and far, to gather and experience unique people and places in Canada.

I promise to keep you updated as we receive more information. Thank you for your continued support and understanding.

Lenore Neudorf
Board Chair
Hostelling International Canada