Jasper has a rich history, from its initial settlers to the first tourist that ever took in the amazing views from the Athabasca Valley. 

This weekend is the perfect time to find out more, at the Pine Bungalows’ Human History Discovery Weekend featuring University of Athabasca professor Ian MacLaren. MacLaren is a professor in the department of history and classics at the University of Athabasca. He also teaches in the English department, but his speciality is Jasper National Park and environmental history. He is interested in the  history of upper Athabasca Valley. 

The talk is being held on Sept. 10 and will focus on Jasper’s first settlers, First Nations history in the area, the fur trade and Jasper’s evolution from a railway stop to one of Canada’s top destinations. The event will be held at the Conference Centre at Pine Bungalows at 7 p.m. 

The Pine Bungalows holds Discovery Weekends at least once a month, with more information on costs available on their website, www.pinebungalows.com. Events include interpretative walks, wildlife photography, quilting and more. On Oct. 8 and 9, the Pine Bungalows will host a David Thompson Discovery Weekend with Jasper Yellowhead Museum’s Karen Byers.