To help guide visitors to iconic scenic viewpoints where they can connect with nature, Jasper National Park is now participating in Parks Canada’s Red Chair program. Inspired by the success of a similar program in Gros Morne National Park, visitors can use GPS coordinates or special maps to seek out strategically placed bright red Adirondack chairs. The chairs are placed in ideal locations to enjoy Jasper’s majestic views, tempting each passerby to slow down and appreciate the moment.
Jasper National Park’s trail crew has installed the sets of two chairs at 6 popular Jasper locations: Lower Maligne Valley’s ‘Going to the Sea’ day use area, Valley of the Five Lakes, Old Fort Point, Pyramid Overlook, Lake Edith and Wilcox Pass. Each set of chairs is accompanied by a short interpretive panel that shares information about the site. The panels highlight the history, wildlife, or geological features of the area, or offer tips for reflection and nature watching.
In collaboration with Parks Canada’s Red Chair program, and just in time for the busy summer season, the Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) has launched its Share the View photo contest. This contest celebrates the 90th birthday of the AGA and the currently running 1924 Rockies exhibit. The Rockies exhibit features the work of Lawren S. Harris and fellow Group of Seven member A.Y. Jackson, both of whom travelled to Jasper in August of 1924 to paint. The AGA curated an exhibit of this work, encouraging visitors to physically go to the places in the Parks which inspired the artists – and fitting perfectly with the newly-installed Red Chairs.
Interested parties can win a trip for two to the Jasper Dark Sky Festival by entering the Share the View photo contest. To enter, visit any of the Red Chair locations and snap a scenic shot or a selfie in the chairs, and then post the photo by August 16, 2014 – see details at www.youraga.ca/sharethechair. Photos can also be taken at the Red Chair installed on the mezzanine level of the Alberta Art Gallery.
Additional information about the Red Chair program is available on Jasper National Park’s website, under “Activities” – “Jasper Red Chair Program.” The website will provide a printable map and a PDF of the Red Chair locations – check it out online, seek out the chairs, and then sit back and soak up the scenery.
Parks Canada
Special to the Fitzhugh
