Icefields skywalk draws criticism

Environmentalists are panning a proposed observation deck at Jasper’s Columbia Icefields.

Brewster Travel Canada wants to build a 400-metre sky walk and glass-floored observation deck suspended from a cliff face at the Tangle Ridge Viewpoint on the Icefields Parkway.

The deck would expose visitors to "incredible stunning views" where "they would really learn about the glaciology, the geology of the area, why it's so significant and experience the full power of nature," said Brewster president Michael Hannan.

Brewster has been running tours in the park for decades and already operates tour buses that go out onto the icefield.

The observation deck would get visitors out of their cars to experience the icefield in a more rewarding way, he said. The cost would be between $15 and $30.

Parks Canada on board

The deck itself would have little impact on the environment, using an existing pullout, 6.5 kilometres north of the Icefield Centre, Hannan said.

Parks Canada likes the idea which fits well with the management plan, said Shawn Cardiff, manager of land-use planning and policy for the park.

Jasper National Park is always looking for new ways to attract visitors, he said

"The Icefield Parkway area is kind of a signature area for Jasper National Park; fairly unique, where we have a glacier close to the road."

Environmentalists worry about the sky walk's impact on park wildlife and the wilderness experience for visitors.

Catering to business: environmentalists

Parks Canada's mandate is to put wildlife and wilderness first, said Jill Seaton with the Jasper Environmental Association.

"This is catering to a business company."   

She also wonders about charging people for a view that is currently free.  

"I don't think this is going to get more people there, this is just going to be a stop on the highway which is desecrating a place which is already simply beautiful."

Public hearings have been held in Banff and Jasper. An open house is being held in Edmonton Thursday.