Jasper SkyTram Could Be Replaced With New Gondola Under Major Proposal

Tourism operator Pursuit is proposing a major redevelopment of the Jasper SkyTram as part of a broader investment plan in Jasper National Park, signalling confidence in the community's long-term tourism prospects less than two years after a wildfire devastated parts of the townsite.

The Jasper SkyTram, one of the community's most recognizable tourist attractions, has carried visitors up Whistlers Mountain since 1964.

The proposal was outlined in investor materials released alongside the company's first-quarter financial results, where Pursuit identified the Jasper SkyTram as one of several projects planned under its Vision 2030 strategy, a long-term investment plan that includes more than $300 million in attraction and hotel upgrades through the end of the decade.

In the presentation, Pursuit said it plans to replace the aging SkyTram with a modern gondola system as it seeks to address demand that currently exceeds the attraction's capacity.

Pursuit confirmed the proposed project is under review but said no final decisions have been made.

"We are investing in this iconic attraction, in this special place where we are privileged to operate, to ensure it endures as a defining experience for decades to come," said Stuart Back, chief operating officer of Pursuit's Canadian operations.

The company declined to provide details on project costs, timelines or how the attraction would operate, saying it is still working through the regulatory process with Parks Canada.

"Pursuit is currently working through the review process with the Parks Canada Team," said Back. "No approval has been granted, and no final project decisions have been made."

The proposed SkyTram redevelopment is part of a broader push by Pursuit to expand and upgrade its Jasper operations. The company is completing the final phase of renovations to the Woodland Wing at the Forest Park Hotel and has identified additional upgrades at Lobstick Lodge.

According to investor materials, the first phase of renovations at Forest Park Hotel has already generated an approximately 22% increase in average daily room rates, suggesting visitors are willing to pay more for upgraded rooms.

Together, the SkyTram redevelopment, hotel renovations and rising bookings underscore Pursuit's commitment to Jasper's future despite the disruption caused by the 2024 wildfire.

"Jasper is central to Pursuit's long-term strategy, and the SkyTram redevelopment is one part of a broader commitment to this destination," said Back.

The investments come as Pursuit tells investors demand for travel experiences in the Canadian Rockies remains strong. The company reported record first-quarter revenue and said strong forward bookings continue to support its outlook.

Investor materials show Canadian hotel revenue booked for 2026 reached approximately $58 million, up from about $49 million at the same point last year, while revenue from existing hotels and attractions also increased.

Parks Canada estimates visitation rebounded to about 2.13 million visitors in 2025, an increase of roughly one million visitors from the previous year despite ongoing rebuilding efforts and reduced accommodation capacity.

Back said the company's outlook for Jasper remains positive despite the challenges posed by the 2024 wildfire.

"The 2024 wildfire tested Jasper profoundly. What we've seen since in forward bookings, visitor intent, and the community's own resilience reinforces our confidence in this destination's future and our commitment to it," said Black.