Cultural Use Area

The Jasper National Park Cultural Use Area is a dedicated space for Indigenous partners to use for reconnecting to the land, cultural learning, ceremony, and celebration. The desire for a cultural space within Jasper National Park came from discussions between the Jasper Indigenous Forum and Parks Canada. A site blessing and powwow was held in August 2012 to initiate the dedication of the site, and use of the Cultural Use Area started in June 2013.

Indigenous partners have identified the purpose of the Cultural Use Area as a private place for physical, spiritual, and cultural reconnection, and for healing in a wilderness setting. The site is closed to the general public to ensure privacy and respect of this sacred space. Even when not in use, it is critical to respect this closure to the public to eliminate impacts and keep the site intact for ceremonial purposes.

The Cultural Use Area was significantly impacted by the 2024 Jasper Wildfire. Structures and culturally important areas were burned. Restoration work is ongoing, but the Cultural Use Area remains accessible for Indigenous partner use.