The Skywalk Vista cantilevers daringly over a glacial gorge. Photo by Brewster Travel Canada.
LOCATION Jasper National Park, Alberta
ARCHITECT Sturgess Architecture
PHOTOS Robert Lemermeyer, unless otherwise noted
The Glacier Skywalk, a man-made extension of the fractal landscape of the Columbia Icefield in Jasper National Park, is a jaw-dropping feat of architecture and engineering. This private development initiative in a public park was undertaken in concert with Parks Canada, which wished to more fully engage tourists in an environmental experience.
The project weaves a continuous thread through geometric and material forms. A sinuous journey defines the Skywalk not as a singular destination, but as a catalyst that empowers guests to immerse themselves in their natural surroundings. The narrative of Canada?s National Parks necessitates a sustainable approach to building. Geologically, thrust-fault movements have created a fractal landscape, and this informs the architecture. The theme of rugged architecture is evident throughout the voyage of discovery, providing contrast between the subtle gestures and monumental idea of the Glacier Skywalk.
A view of the dropoff pavilion.
Interpretive stations project from and recess into the rock face in response to the program, view and climactic conditions present at each location. In contrast, the Skywalk Vista projects from the sheer face of the mountainside to allow visitors to be immersed in the grandeur and scale of the glac...