Decore Hotels has announced the acquisition of the Athabasca Hotel, signalling a renewed future for one of Jasper’s best known hospitality landmarks and a continued investment in the town’s tourism sector. As part of the acquisition, the company plans to invest approximately $4.5 million into the property over the next year, supporting upgrades and enhancements while preserving the longstanding character of the Athabasca Hotel.
Affectionately known as “The Atha-B” to generations of locals and visitors alike, the Athabasca Hotel opened in 1928 as the town’s first hotel and has remained part of the community’s story ever since. Located at the iconic corner of Patricia Street and Miette Avenue, the property traces its roots back to the area’s earliest days as a railway destination and has long served as a gathering place for travellers and locals alike.
“The Athabasca Hotel is more than a hotel. It is part of Jasper’s identity,” says Karyn Decore, President and CEO of Decore Hotels. “The opportunity to steward a property with this kind of history and connection to the community is incredibly meaningful for our family and our team. As Jasper continues its recovery and rebuild, we are proud to invest in the future of a property that has helped welcome generations of travellers to one of Canada’s most recognized mountain destinations.”
The Decore family has been part of Jasper’s hospitality community for more than six decades, beginning with John and Maureen Decore’s acquisition of The Diamond Motel in 1961. The family later expanded its presence with the acquisition of Tonquin Inn in 1978, and in 1991 the Diamond Lodge was renamed Malign Lodge. The Athabasca Hotel was acquired by second generation sisters Karyn Decore and Nicole Arquero as part of the family’s continued investment in Jasper’s hospitality sector, while the company also prepares for the next chapter of the Maligne following the 2024 wildfire.
Local Leadership for a New Chapter
The company has also announced the appointment of Murray Pigeon as General Manager. Born and raised in Jasper, Pigeon began his career at the Athabasca Hotel in 2001 and has served as General Manager since 2020.
“The Athabasca Hotel has always held a special place in Jasper, and I’m proud to continue leading the property as part of the Decore Hotels family,” says Pigeon. “This is an exciting moment not only for the hotel, but for Jasper as a whole.”
