Parks Canada approves acquisition of Jasper SkyTram by U.S. company

The Jasper SkyTram in operation back in 2020. | File photo

Parks Canada approved the $25-million purchase of the Jasper SkyTram by Viad, the U.S. parent company of Pursuit.

“All businesses operating within Parks Canada administered sites have land use agreements,” the agency said in a statement to the Fitzhugh. “Parks Canada ensures that businesses operate in a manner that complies with all applicable acts.”

Parks Canada added that it will collaborate with Competition Bureau Canada if requested.

Pursuit did not respond to a request for comment.

The Jasper SkyTram is an aerial tramway on Whistlers Mountain in Jasper National Park and runs seasonally from late March to the end of October.

The attraction had previously been owned by the same company that runs the Marmot Basin ski resort.

Initially announced in June, the transaction includes a renewable long-term lease with Parks Canada, with nearly 30 years remaining.

In a previous new release, Pursuit said it was committed to the long-term investment of the Jasper SkyTram.

Through its Pursuit brand, Viad also operates the Columbia Icefield Adventure, the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, Maligne Lake Cruise and eight hotels in Jasper National Park.

It also owns the Banff Gondola at Sulphur Mountain, Lake Minnewanka Cruise, the Brewster Express bus line, two hotels in Banff and the Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton Lakes National Park.

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