In the picturesque town of Canmore, Alberta, a proposed glamping site is stirring significant controversy. The ambitious project, spearheaded by John (Jay) Third and his partners, aims to transform nearly 10 hectares of private land, located above the historic Canmore Mine Number 1, into a 74-site glamorous camping experience. However, local resident concerns regarding over-tourism and environmental impact have sparked a heated debate in this community nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
The Vision for Trailhaus
The concept, dubbed “Trailhaus,” was initially named “Miners Camp” and has been in development for the past two years. Third envisions a unique camping opportunity that pays homage to the area’s mining heritage, with plans for tents and cabins constructed on wooden platforms, outfitted with beds, furniture, and even bathrooms in some units. “The intention was to play on the historic nature of the property and the community itself,” Third explained during a recent site visit.
Canmore Mine Number 1, which commenced operations in 1887, was pivotal in transforming the town from a modest whistle stop into a thriving community. Although the mine ceased operations in 1916, it has left an indelible mark on the area. The increasing popularity of Canmore as a tourism hotspot in recent years, particularly among outdoor enthusiasts, has raised concerns about the strain on local infrastructure and housing.
Community Pushback
Opposition to the Trailhaus project has emerged strongly from residents like Wendy Walker, who lives in a neighbourhood just five minutes away. Walker has initiated a petition against the glamping site, garnering approximately 2,500 signatures. She argues that Canmore is reaching its limits in terms of development. “Enough is enough. Canmore is over-developed, and we’re all desperately trying to slow it down,” Walker stated.
Her concerns extend to the impact of over-tourism on local resources. “We just don’t have the infrastructure. We don’t have the staff. We don’t have the accommodation. Over-tourism is an issue,” she added, emphasising the need for sustainable growth in the community.
Safety and Environmental Concerns
Walker raised additional alarms regarding the potential safety risks associated with the proposed site. She cited fears of wildlife encounters, particularly with bears and elk, as the area is situated along a wildlife corridor. Furthermore, she expressed apprehension about evacuation routes in the event of a wildfire, recalling the recent devastating fire in Jasper that forced widespread evacuations. “There’s only one way in and one way out, so in terms of evacuation plans, we’re terrified,” she said.
Zachary Richardson, managing partner and owner of the Trailhaus property, acknowledges the community’s apprehensions. He has a personal connection to the glamping experience, having been inspired during his travels across North America. “The location is just too hard to pass up. It gives the feel that you’re secluded in the woods but you’re close to everything,” Richardson noted.
The Growing Appeal of Glamping
The glamping trend, which merges the experiences of camping and the comforts of luxury accommodation, has gained traction across North America. McKenzie McMillan of the Vancouver-based Travel Group reported increasing demand for such unique stays, noting the success of high-end glamping resorts in other locations. “It’s definitely a market segment that has increasing demand,” she said, highlighting the potential for growth in the glamping industry.
While the Trailhaus project promises to attract tourists seeking an upscale outdoor experience, it also underscores the delicate balance between development and preservation in Canmore.
Why it Matters
The debate surrounding the Trailhaus glamping site encapsulates a larger conversation about sustainable tourism in communities like Canmore. As more visitors flock to these scenic areas, the challenge lies in ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of local residents’ quality of life and the environment. The outcome of this proposed project could set a precedent for future developments in the region, impacting how communities manage their natural resources and tourism strategies in the years to come.
