The wildfire that ripped through Jasper National Park and the Town of Jasper this week has caused acute grief for those who've lost homes, businesses and livelihoods. But there's a secondary loss for the many people in this province who love the place, and for whom Jasper holds a multitude of memories. Kristin Heimbecker is one of those.
She grew up in Fort McMurray; when she moved to Edmonton she discovered Jasper as a breath of fresh air and escape from the city. "Jasper just feels like coming home ..
. To experience the peace and calm that it brings has just been just such a gift to us," said Heimbecker, who surprised herself at how emotional she felt hearing news of the fire this week. She posted photos with her favourite memories on social media and invited others to do so, too.
Blaze that damaged Jasper, Alta., townsite was too powerful to stop, fire experts say A first look at damage caused by massive wildfire that ripped through Jasper During COVID, her family would make the four-hour drive from Edmonton to Jasper for day-hikes. Their favourite is Valley of the Five Lakes, a route she hopes has remained untouched by the blaze.
Heimbecker is also worried for town residents. Having friends and family who lived through the 2016 Fort McMurray fire, she knows how long it can take for a community to rebuild, even for those whose homes are still standing. "This is a long road ahead of them.
I've seen it." In an update on Thursday, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and two provin.