January 27, 2022                             Jasper, Alberta                             Parks Canada Agency

Parks Canada is committed to a system of national heritage places that recognizes and honours the historical and contemporary contributions of Indigenous peoples, their histories and cultures, as well as the special relationships Indigenous peoples have with ancestral lands and waters.

The Advisory Group of the Jasper Indigenous Forum, composed of over 25 First Nations and Métis groups with historical ties to Jasper National Park, has been working with Parks Canada to find an appropriate name for the former Pocahontas Campground, located in the eastern end of the park. Today, the Advisory Group and Parks Canada announced the selection of “Miette” as an interim step in the process. The name “Miette” is consistent with existing names in this region of Jasper National Park. The campground sits on Miette Road, which leads visitors along the Miette River to the Miette Hot Springs.

All partners have agreed to continue discussions to find an acceptable, permanent campground name that properly honours Indigenous cultures and connections to Jasper National Park.  In the meantime, the name “Miette Campground” will appear on all signage, correspondence and reservations, and will also be reflected in the names of the area’s warden cabin and hiking trail. Visitors seeking reservations will find “Miette Campground” under its new temporary name for booking purposes.

Honouring connection to place is an important element for actions and outcomes related to reconciliation. Acknowledging that the cultures and identities of Indigenous peoples are rooted in the land, Parks Canada is committed to ensuring Indigenous connections are honoured, and Indigenous rights respected. 

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