Visitor Guide 2020 2021 - Public transit and shuttle information
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Visitor Guide
2020 – 2021
Roam the Lake Minnewanka Loop
Public transit and
shuttle information:
Damian Blunt
See pages 4 & 5
Également offert en français
K. Trivers
Lake Minnewanka
Canada’s First National Park A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Encompassing over 6 500 km², Banff National Park Four of the mountain national parks – Banff,
is an important historical and contemporary place Jasper, Yoho and Kootenay – are recognized by the
for Indigenous peoples and others to connect United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
with history and nature. The lands and waters of Organization (UNESCO) as part of the Canadian Rocky
Banff National Park have been used by Indigenous Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, for the benefit
peoples for millennia; for sustenance, ceremony, and enjoyment of all nations. Among the attributes
trade and travel. Starting in 1885 as 26 km² of that warranted this designation were vast wilderness,
federally protected lands around the Cave and diversity of flora and fauna, outstanding natural beauty
Basin Hot Springs, the protected area was quickly and features such as Lake Louise, Maligne Lake, the
expanded to 674 km², becoming the core of Columbia Icefield and the Burgess Shale.
Canada’s first national park. More than a century
later, the park draws millions of people each year
to experience the natural beauty, seven national
historic sites and iconic wildlife, from grizzly bears
to the Banff Springs Snail. Providing opportunities
for learning and adventure, Canada’s oldest
national park offers mountains of possibilities.
Content
Plan Ahead. Take Transit ........................... 4-5 Lake Louise Map ............................................. 16-17
Walk, Bike or Roam ................................... 4-5 Icefields Parkway Map ..................................... 18-19
Bucket List ................................................ 6 Mountain Wildlife ............................................. 20-21
Suggested Itineraries ................................ 7 Wildlife Need Your Help ................................... 22-25
Camping .................................................... 8 Bison Return to Banff ...................................... 25
Park Map ................................................... 9 Volunteering in Banff National Park ................. 25
Bow Valley Parkway Map .......................... 10-11 Mountain Safety .............................................. 26
Town of Banff Map .................................... 12-13 Conservation Stories ....................................... 27
Lake Minnewanka Loop Map .................... 14 National Park Regulations ............................... 28-29
Interpretive Programs and Activities ......... 15 Winter Adventures ........................................... 30-31
2
S. Munn
Parks Canada Visitor Centre
Transit/shuttle info: pc.gc.ca/banff-transit Guidebooks, topographic maps and bear spray
or explorethepark.ca are available at Parks Canada visitor centres and
Real-time park info: pc.gc.ca/banffnow retail outlets in the town of Banff and the village of
Lake Louise.
Maps: Parks Canada visitor centres
Park entry fee: pc.gc.ca/banff-parkpass Brochures are available online at:
parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-brochures
Weather: weather.gc.ca / 403-762-2088
or at a Parks Canada visitor centre.
Important bulletins: pc.gc.ca/banff-bulletins
Trail report: pc.gc.ca/banfftrails
Visit facebook.com/BanffNP
Town of Banff parking: banffparking.ca
twitter.com/BanffNP
Road report: 511.alberta.ca
instagram.com/parks.canada
Banff & Lake Louise Tourism: banfflakelouise.com
Banff Jasper
Jasper Information Centre: 780-852-6176
pc.gc.ca/banff pc.gc.ca/jasper
Banff Visitor Centre: Tourism Jasper: 780-852-6236, jasper.travel
224 Banff Avenue
403-762-1550
Kootenay
Kootenay Visitor Centre: 250-347-9505
Jan. 1 - May 14 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 7 days / week pc.gc.ca/kootenay
May 15 - Sep. 30 | 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. | 7 days / week Tourism Radium/Radium Chamber of Commerce:
Oct. 1 - Dec. 31 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 7 days / week 1-888-347-9331, tourismradium.com
Closed Dec. 25
Yoho
Banff Train Station: Yoho Visitor Centre: 250-343-6783
327 Railway Avenue pc.gc.ca/yoho
Jan. 1 - Dec. 31 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 7 days / week Tourism Golden: 1-800-622-4653, tourismgolden.com, field.ca
Closed Dec. 25 Mount Revelstoke and Glacier
Lake Louise Visitor Centre: Rogers Pass Discovery Centre: 250-837-7500
201 Village Road, in Samson Mall pc.gc.ca/glacier • pc.gc.ca/revelstoke
403-522-3833 Tourism Revelstoke: 1-800-487-1493, seerevelstoke.com
Jan. 1 - May 31 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 7 days / week Waterton Lakes
June 1 - Sep. 30 | 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. | 7 days / week Waterton Lakes Visitor Centre: 403-859-5133
Oct. 1 - Dec. 31 | 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 7 days / week pc.gc.ca/waterton
Closed Dec. 25 Waterton Chamber of Commerce, mywaterton.ca
3
Roam Public Transit
N. Fitzhardinge
Plan Ahead. Take Transit.
Significant traffic congestion can occur in Banff National Park during the summer months. Johnston Canyon,
Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are extremely popular. Parking is limited and fills quickly, so it
is important to plan ahead. For the best experience, take Roam Public Transit or reserve your seat in advance on
a Parks Canada shuttle.
Take Roam Public Transit Lake
Lo
Lake
Roam Public Transit offers service between Banff
uis
Louise Lake Louise
and many destinations in the park—look for the bus
e
riv Village
D
e
symbol on the maps. Visit roamtransit.com for
routes, schedules and fares.
Fairview Drive
Reserve your Parks Canada shuttle
Trans-Canada Highway
Moraine Lake Road
Reservations are required
to ride a Parks Canada
shuttle from the Park and Ride to Lake Lake Louise
Louise and Moraine Lake. Campground
Visit reservation.pc.gc.ca to book your spot.
Reservations are available starting on April 1, 2020 Park and Ride
with a limited number of seats released daily at (6 km east of Lake
Moraine Louise Village)
6 a.m., 2 days in advance of scheduled departures. Lake
Banff
Visit pc.gc.ca/banff-transit for more information.
Walk, Bike or Roam.
Park your vehicle and enjoy easy access to the trails and sites listed below, close to town centres.
Banff (see pages 12-13) Bow River Trail to the Fenland Trail
Surprise Corner Nature is moments away from Banff Avenue. Start
Admire sweeping views, and get that perfect picture. at Central Park downtown and follow this river trail
From Central Park downtown, walk or ride a bike east upstream past the canoe docks to Fenland Trail.
along the Bow River to this viewpoint. Walk – 1 hour/4.5 km round trip
Walk – 25 minutes from downtown Bow Falls
Bike – 1.7 km ride from downtown Visit a waterfall within the town of Banff. From Central
Roam Route #7 – 10 minutes from downtown Park downtown, walk downstream and over the
pedestrian bridge. Follow the river on the south shore
trail, up and down some stairs to the Bow Falls.
Walk – 25 minute/1.6 km one way
4
Lake Louise Lakeshore
Damian Blunt
How to use Parks Canada shuttles in the Lake Louise area:
1. Visit reservation.pc.gc.ca to make a reservation. 3. Check in with Parks Canada staff and take
2. With proof of reservation, arrive at the Park and your shuttle.
Ride 15 to 30 minutes prior to your scheduled 4. Use the Lake Connector shuttle on a first-come
departure. No refund or rescheduling is available for first-serve basis to ride in between Lake Louise and
missed departures. Moraine Lake. Expect delays during peak hours.
Note, if you are staying in the Lake Louise Village 5. Plan your return trip before the last return shuttle.
or Campground, or transferring from Roam Public On your return, you can get off at the Lake Louise
Transit, use the free Park and Ride Connector Village or at the Park and Ride.
shuttle to the Park and Ride.
Parks Canada Shuttles routes and schedules
Lake Louise Lakeshore May 15 – October 12 $ - Reservations required
Last return shuttle 7:45 p.m.
Moraine Lake May 22 – October 12 $ - Reservations required
Last return shuttle 7:35 p.m.
Lake Connector May 22 – October 12 Reservation holders only
Runs every 20 minutes from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Park and Ride Connector May 15 – October 12 Free - No reservations required
Runs every 30 minutes from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lake Louise (see pages 16-17)
Take Roam Route 8X for access to Lake Louise
Tramline Trail
Skip the traffic and enjoy this moderately challenging hike or bike up to the
Lake Louise lakeshore from the village. A century ago, this was the trolley
route to the Chateau Lake Louise.
Walk – 1.5 hour one way Bike – 4.5 km one way
Elevation gain 195 m
Louise Creek Trail
Take this trail to create a loop back to the village from the lakeshore. This
trail follows the entire length of Louise Creek as it rushes from Lake Louise
to the Bow River.
Damian Blunt
Walk – 1 hour/2.8 km one way
Elevation gain 195 m Parks Canada Shuttle 5
K. April
Banff Park Museum
K. April
K. April
1 Cave and Basin National Historic Site 2 National Historic Site 4 Banff Upper Hot Springs
Bucket List 6 Meander along Vermilion Lakes
Bike or walk the Vermilion Drive, relax on the docks and
benches beside the lakes, learn about the area, snap a
Look for the numbers on the maps on pages
picture of Mount Rundle or go for a paddle.
10 to 19 to find these sites and attractions.
7 Bike the Banff Legacy Trail
1 Visit the Cave and Basin National Roam Route 3 (year-round)
Historic Site Cyclists, strollers and runners can enjoy mountain views,
Roam Route 4 (summer service) picnic areas and Vermilion Lakes along this 29 km of paved
paths and roadways from Canmore to the Bow Valley
See interactive exhibits and bubbling thermal waters in Parkway. This trail is not maintained in winter.
an underground cave that gave rise to the birthplace of
Canada’s national parks. Visit pc.gc.ca/cave for hours 8 Explore the Lake Minnewanka area
and fees.
Roam Route 6 (summer service)
2 Discover the Banff Park Museum In the summer, ride the Lake Minnewanka bus to visit
National Historic Site picturesque lakes including Johnson Lake and Two Jack
From downtown Banff: Roam Routes 1, 2, Lake. Enjoy hiking, picnicking and being on or by the water.
7 (year-round) and 4 (summer service) In the winter, it is a great destination for cross-country
skiing, winter walking or snowshoeing.
Take a wild trip back in time with vintage natural history
specimens from bears to bees. Visit 9 Roam the Bow Valley Parkway
pc.gc.ca/banffparkmuseum for hours and fees.
Roam Route 8S (summer service)
3 Wander through the Cascades of Take the scenic bus from Banff to Lake Louise in the
Time Garden summer and sightsee the Bow Valley Parkway, including
Roam Route 1 (year-round) Castle Mountain and Johnston Canyon.
10 minute walk from downtown Banff 10 Hike Johnston Canyon
Take a stroll through a flower-filled heritage garden with
Roam Route 9 (summer service)
water features, pathways and pavilions.
Follow wide trails and narrow bridges with railings through
4 Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs a canyon to waterfalls. Take Roam public transit to this
popular location in summer. In other seasons, be sure to
Roam Route 1 (year-round) bring ice cleats.
Relax in Canada’s highest elevation operational hot
spring. This accessible site includes a café and gift 11 Visit the Lake Louise Lakeshore
shop. Towels and swimsuit rentals are available. Visit
Roam Routes 8X (year-round) and
hotsprings.ca for hours and fees.
8S (summer service)
5 Summit Tunnel Mountain For the best experience, take Roam public transit or
reserve your seat in advance on the Parks Canada shuttles.
Roam Route 7 (year-round) See pages 4-5.
The 2.4 km trail to this summit provides views across the
12 Drive the Icefields Parkway
town and Bow Valley. The trailhead is a 15 minute walk
(1 km) from downtown Banff. This 230 km drive winds through glaciers, emerald lakes,
and broad sweeping valleys. Snow may be present any
time of the year—review driving safety on page 31.
6
Banff & Lake Louise Tourism/K. MacDonald
Roam Transit/N. Fitzhardinge
S. Munn
6 Vermilion Lakes 8 Johnson Lake 11 Lake Louise
Suggested Itineraries Experience the great outdoors
Ask for advice at a Parks Canada visitor Hike up Tunnel Mountain
centre and pick up the public transit Roam Route 7 (year-round)
brochure to plan these itineraries.
Trailhead is 15 minute walk from downtown Banff
Paddle on the Vermilion Lakes
Explore the culture 30 minute walk from downtown Banff
and history of Banff Bike the Banff Legacy Trail
Roam Route 3 (year-round)
Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Roam Route 4 (summer service)
Book one of our many camping options:
tent sites, serviced sites, Equipped Campsites or oTENTiks.
30 minute walk or 8 minute bus ride
Roam Route 2 (year-round), Route 6 (summer
from downtown Banff
service) or Route 8s (summer service)
Banff Park Museum National Free service from campgrounds
Historic Site Take a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
Roam Routes 1, 2, 7 (year-round) and Roam Route 1 (year-round)
4 (summer service)
6 minute walk or 4 minute bus ride
from downtown Banff
Cascades of Time Garden Take the scenic route
Roam Route 1 (year-round) Drive the 230 km Icefields Parkway (93N) past glaciers,
waterfalls and turquoise lakes on your way from Lake Louise
10 minute walk from downtown Banff to Jasper.
Ride the bus to the Highlights:
Herbert Lake, Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Lake.
top spots
Recommended hiking trails:
Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake
Bow Glacier Falls and Parker Ridge.
and Johnson Lake
Unique adventure:
Roam Route 6 (summer service)
From the Icefields Parkway, take the David Thompson
Lake Louise and the Highway and drive 175 km to Rocky Mountain House
Bow Valley Parkway National Historic Site. Explore the archeological remains of
four fur-trade forts during the day. Experience the life of a fur
Roam Routes 8X (year-round) and trader and camp on the banks of the North Saskatchewan
8S (summer service) river in a tipi or Métis trapper tent or bring your RV.
7
Camping
Planning to camp in a national park?
Many campsites can be reserved and most fill up quickly. Book online or call ahead for information
and reservations. Camping is permitted in designated campgrounds only. A valid camping permit and
national park entry pass are required.
1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3783) or reservation.pc.gc.ca
Interpretive Programs
Equipped Campsites
Tipis/Trapper Tents
Cooking Shelter
Drinking Water
Full Hook-up
Flush Toilets
Sani Dump
Accessible
Pit Toilets
Electrical
Showers
oTENTik
Firepit
Campgrounds Open Dates Sites
1 Tunnel Mt. Village I May 7 - Oct. 5 618
2 Tunnel Mt. Village II Open year-round 209
oTENTiks May 7 - Oct. 13
3 Tunnel Mt. Trailer Court May 7 - Oct. 5 322
4 Two Jack Main June 25 - Sep. 8 380
Two Jack Lakeside May 7 - Oct. 5 74
5
oTENTiks May 7 - Oct. 5
6 Johnston Canyon June 25 - Sep. 21 132
7 Castle Mountain May 21 - July 2 43
8 Protection Mountain June 18 - Sep. 7 72
Banff
9 Lake Louise Tent May 30 - Sep. 27 206
10 Lake Louise Trailer Open year-round 189
11 Mosquito Creek June 3 - Oct. 12 32
12 Silverhorn June 3 - Sep. 27 45
13 Waterfowl Lakes June 12 - Sep. 7 116
14 Rampart Creek June 3 - Oct. 12 50
15
Rocky Mountain House
May 15 - Sep. 30 45
National Historic Site
16 Marble Canyon June 25 - Sep. 7 61
Kootenay
17 McLeod Meadows June 11 - Sep. 14 88
Redstreak Apr. 30 - Oct. 11 242
18 oTENTiks May 9 - Oct. 11
Crook’s Meadow Call 250-347-2218 for
19 non-profit group camping 1
(group camping) reservations and fees.
20 Monarch Apr. 30 - Oct. 11 44
Yoho
21 Kicking Horse May 14 - Oct. 11 88
22 Takakkaw Falls (walk-in) June 18 - Oct. 11 35
23 Hoodoo Creek June 18 - Sep. 6 30
Reservation needed for all sites in the campground.
Campground has first-come, first-served sites only. Self-register at the campground. In summer months, arrive
before mid-day for the best chance of getting a site.
Campground has a mix of reservable sites and first-come, first-served sites.
Campground is undergoing upgrades.
Check online for the latest information and opening dates: pc.gc.ca/banffcamping
8
Park Map
Jasper Campground Closure
Whistlers campground in Jasper will be
closed for improvements in 2020.
parkscanada.gc.ca/WhistlersCampground
Columbia
Icefield Centre
Rocky Mountain House
Visitor Centre
National Historic Site 15
Washroom
and campground
Jasper 175 km
110 km 93N
11 Hotel
Hostel
H i g h w ay
Exhibit
David Tho m p s o n
14
Ski Area
Saskatchewan Gas Station
River Crossing
Summer only
Glacier
Lake Campgrounds
13 Details on page 8
Reservable
Icefields Parkway
Details pages 18-19 First come, first served
Campground has a mix of
reservable sites and first-come,
Closed in 2020. 12
The Peyto Lake day use area is closed for
first-served sites.
improvements. Entry strictly prohibited. Peyto Lake/Bow Summit
parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-construction
Peyto Construction
Lake
Bow
Bow Lake
Lake 93N
Banff
AL
11
BR
BE
National
ITI
Hector
RT
Ic e fi e
Park
SH
A
Lake
CO
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LU
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Par
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Lake Louise
A
22
kw
Ski Area
ay
Walk-in
Lake Louise area
21 Details pages 16-17
20 Lake 9 10
Louise
Yoho
National Bow Valley Parkway
Tr
Field Baker
Park
a
Details pages 10-11
ns
Creek
-C
Castle
an
Golden Moraine 8 Junction
ad
Lake
a
H
Johnston
ig
Tran
hw
s Canyon
-Ca Lake Minnewanka
ay
nad
aH Mount Norquay
ighw Kootenay 7
ay 23 Ski Area Lake Minnewanka Loop
National 6 Details page 14
4 5
1A
N Park
16 Sunshine Village
0 5 10 Ski Area Town of Banff
Egypt Details pages 12-13
Kilometres Lake Calgary
1 2 3
93S Radium Canmore
Hot Springs
17 18 19
Backcountry Camping
Banff’s backcountry offers spectacular destinations for those
new to backcountry camping and to experienced travellers.
No matter your level of adventure, be prepared and plan
ahead. Pick up your brochure at a Parks Canada visitor
centre, and visit parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-backcountry for Radium
Hot Springs
trip ideas, planning and permit information.
K. Trivers
9
Bow Valley Parkway Map
Parking Washroom Boat Tours Trans-Canada Highway
Only park in designated lots,
not along the road. Hotel Hot Springs 1A Bow Valley Parkway
Parking Picnic Area Snack Bar 93S Highway 93S
Popular area: Check pc.gc.ca/BanffNow Summer only
for real-time parking status and transit Picnic Shelter 93N Icefields Parkway
or shuttle options. Gas Station
Viewpoint Road
Roam Public Transit Bucket List
Schedules: roamtransit.com Exhibit Details page 6 Road closed in winter
Parks Canada Shuttle Ski Area Reservable campground Travel restriction
pc.gc.ca/banff-transit Details page 8
Gondola Easy trail
Accessible Parking First-come, first-
Canoe Docks served campground Moderate trail
RV Parking Details page 8
Boat Launch Difficult trail
Whitehorn
Icefields Parkway Pip Mountain
Jasper es 2 637 m
t on
eR
ive
r
Lake Louise Trail maps
Ski Area
93N available at a
Icefields Parkway
Bo Details pages 18-19 Fish Expect minor delays Parks Canada
w 12
13 Creek Water and sewer lines are being replaced. visitor centre
Ri No significant disruptions are expected to
ve
r shuttle or transit services. or at:
Corral Creek parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-construction
parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-brochures
Day-use Area
Golden Village of Lake Louise Find your Red Chairs
Details pages 16-17
Morant’s
Curve parkscanada.gc.ca/redbanff
Ba
9
ke
12 Lake Louise
11
rC
Lakeshore 10
ree
38 Paradise
Lake Agnes Lake
k
Valley
Teahouse 36 Louise 35
Lake Louise Rockbound
1A Lake
Park and Ride/ Baker Creek
Overflow Day-use Area Storm Mountain
Fairview Campground Day-use Area 24
Mount 37 Mountain Moo
Whyte 2 744 m 34 Castle
Baker Creek 8 John
2 983 m Castle Mountain
Chalets Mountain 2 766 m
25 Rockbound
Moraine Lake Road Lake
Closed to vehicles from early fall to Taylor 23
Plain of Six
Moraine Creek
Glaciers Teahouse
Mount late spring due to high avalanche risk. Lake 7
Temple Trans- Bow River
Mount 3 543 m Ca
na
k
Victoria Mount da
ee
3 464 m Panorama H ig h
Cr
Lefroy Ridge way
3 423 m
lor
30 2 824 m 29
Moraine Lake
y
Castle
Ta
Lodge Junction
Moraine Consolation Taylor Lake
33 Lakes Storm Mountain 93S
31 Lake
Lodge
32 Moraine Lake Radium
Day-use Area Boom
Hot Springs
Mount
Lake
Bell
2 910 m 26
Yoho Boom Lake 27
Vista
National Lake
Park 28
Kootenay Continental Divide Twin
N National Day-use Area Lakes
Park
Storm
Mountain
3 100 m
ay
H i ghw
0 1 2 3 4 5
re
B RI
me
Kilometres
ALBERTA
der
TISH CO
Sha
in
La
ff-W
Ban
LU MB
A
I
10Lake Louise Moraine Lake Lake Louise 21
Lake Minnewanka
Lakeshore 11 Day-use Area Consolation
Day-use Area 8 Stewart
Lakes Canyon
and Larch Valley Lower Falls
Chateau 30 Upper Falls
Lake Louise Ink Pots
N
La Moraine Lake
k eL Lodge
ou N
is e
36
D r i ve Rockpile
Lake Agnes 33
1A
and Plain of
Six Glaciers Larch
Valley 31
Bow Valley Pa
Teahouses
N Johnston
Moraine
Canyon 10
N
Lake
Louise Lake Lake
Minnewanka
N
rkway
Fairview
Lookout
Banff
Hiking Trails 13 Sulphur Mountain 26 Boom Lake
2
nka
1 Stewart Canyon 14 Sulphur Mountain Westside 27 Vista Lake
wa
2 Aylmer Pass 15 Healy Creek 28 Arnica Lake/Twin Lakes 3 Mount
e
inn
3 Cascade Valley 16 Brewster Creek 29 Taylor Lake 1 Inglismaldie
eM
4 C-Level Cirque 17 Cory Pass 30 Consolation Lakes 2 964 m
Lake Minnewanka
Lak
5 Stoney Lookout 18 Healy Pass 31 Moraine Lake Lakeshore Day-use Area
8
6 Cascade Amphitheatre 19 Bourgeau Lake/Harvey Pass 32 Eiffel Lake Lake Minnewanka Loop
7 Spray River East Trail 20 Redearth Creek 33 Larch Valley Details page 14
4
8 Spray River West Trail 21 Johnston Canyon 34 Paradise Valley Two Jack
9 Goat Creek 22 Ink Pots via Moose Meadows 35 Mount Fairview Lake
4 5
10 Marsh Loop 23 Silverton Falls 36 Lake Louise Lakeshore
Cascade
11 Sundance Trail 24 Rockbound Lake 37 Plain of Six Glaciers Mountain
12 Sundance Canyon 25 Castle Lookout 38 Lake Agnes 2 998 m
Cascade
Pond Johnson
Jo
Fo Lake
6
hn
Bow Valley Parkway Travel Restriction rty
st
M Canmore
on
From March 1 to June 25, the parkway is closed ile Calgary
Cr
Cr
from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. between the Trans-Canada
ee 7
ee
Highway exit from Banff to just east of Johnston k
k
Canyon Campground. Mount Norquay 5
parkscanada.gc.ca/bvp-travel Ski Area
ose Meadows/ Mount Bow River
nston Creek 22 Norquay
Cockscomb 2 522 m
Mountain
17
2 776 m
Town of Banff
Johnston
21 Canyon 10
11 6 Details pages 12-13
1A Mount Mount
9
10 Sawback Cory Edith 10
Bo 2 554 m
6 w
2 802 m
Va Banff Upper Mount
lle 8 7 Rundle
yP Fireside 11 Hot Springs
ark 2 949 m
wa Closed in
14
y winter
Wildlife 1A 13 Sp
Crossing ray
Exhibit 12 Su Banff
Muleshoe 15 Riv
Accessible nd Gondola er
westbound an
Redearth ce
only Cr
ee Sulphur
Bourgeau Healy k Mountain 9
Brewster 2 451 m
Copper
Mountain Pilot
20 Mountain
2 795 m
2 935 m 19
d
k
Br
k
oa
ee
ee
R
ew
Cr
Cr
ss
ly
st
a
th
er
ce
Mount He
ar
Cr
Ac
Mount
de
Brett e
ee
Bourgeau
Re
lag
2 984 m
k
2 930 m
Vil
16
i ne
sh
un Sunshine Village
Ski Area
S
Banff
National
Park
adow 18
ake
Pharoah
Peak
2 711 m
Egypt
Lake 11Town of Banff Map
ay ive
o rqu ic Dr
M t. N S c en
Bow Valley Parkway
Details pages 10-11 Mount
Lake Louise Norquay
Details pages 16-17
Vermil
ion Lak Trans-Canada Highway
e s Drive
Trail
6 Legacy
eC
y Mil
Fort
Fenland Trail
Second First
Vermilion Vermilion
Mt. Norquay Road
Lake Lake
Fenland Fenlands Industrial
Day-use Area 2.1 Recreation Centre
km Area
Banff
Train Station
Rabbit
Co
Railway
Fox
ug
Elk
ar
G
op
M
he
oo
r rel
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uir Transit An
er Sq Hub Banff Avenue tel
op
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Ma B ow Ma
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p Mou
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2.8 km only
Drive
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11 Cave and Basin Park
ter
Tunnel
Mu
zzly
National Historic Site Bu
Ot
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Gri
lo
22 Banff Park Museum 1 692 m
Tun
National Historic Site Cave Bir
ch Wo
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Ave lv e ri n e
el M
nue
To p
Ja 5
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ou
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Mid
2.4
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ac
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ier
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Banff Centre for
0 1 Arts and Creativity
Koote
Kilometres
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Cascades
Mo
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dle to Hoo
nA
Ru
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Trail maps Surprise
available at a Corner
Parks Canada Bow
ad
Fairmont Falls
Ro
visitor centre Banff Springs rs
e
RO
or at: ou
lf C
AD
Go
parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-brochures
NO
TT
Winter
O
Spray River
only
SC
Find your Red Chairs
AL
ain
E
Spray River
parkscanada.gc.ca/redbanff
unt
Banff Upper
Mo
km
44
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Spra
Hot Springs
5.5
hur
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W
p
Banff
Sul
e st 5
Gondola
er
12
.6
m
k
Cascade
88 Lake Minnewanka
Details page 14
Ponds
Legacy Trail
Not maintained in winter
pc.gc.ca/banffnp-closures
km
29
Trail
acy
Leg
77
k
Cree
Canmore
Calgary
Co
mp
km
ou
3
e 3.
nd
enu Trai
l
ff Av Avenu
e
e 3.2 k m
R
Ban Banff
oa
pin
Th e S
d
Marmot
Tun
Tunnel Campground Loo
p 6.4 km
nel Mount
ay Summer
eW Tunnel Mountain only
Ridg Campgrounds Co
en 3 1 as
dd 2 tlin
Hi
ain Road
e
4.8 k m
point
Summer
Hoodoos Vie w only
t o
3 km ner
or
C
Hoodoos Viewpoint
e
ris
rp and Day-use Area
Su
Trails
Do
n’
s
By
cal
Tunnel Mountain Drive
-p
ni
h
as
ec Closed to vehicles from the first
s
lT
major snow fall to spring melt.
nne
Enjoy the road by foot, fat bike,
pN
snowshoes or cross-country skis. Teddy
Tu
B
otch 3. 9 k m
ear’s P
icnic
W
olf
Ho
Sc
od
at
Golf Course Road
oo
All
km
Closed from November 1 to May 1
e
4.8
y
pc.gc.ca/banffnp-closures
er
Visitor Centre
Bus Station Skating Reservable Campground
Parking Details page 8
Gas Station Skatepark
Roam Public Transit Trans-Canada Highway
Schedules: roamtransit.com Police Golf Course
Road
RV Parking Hospital Dog Park
Road closed in winter
Washroom Viewpoint Horse Riding
Easy trail
Hostel Interpretation Playground
Moderate trail
Picnic Area Gondola Sani Dump
Difficult trail
Picnic Shelter Hot Springs Expect bikes on trail
Other Trail
Train Station Canoe Docks Bucket List Su
per
Details page 6 G
13Lake Minnewanka Loop Map
Parking
Only park in designated lots,
Lake Minnewanka not along the road.
Day-use Area Stewart
Canyon Aylmer Pass
13.5 km Parking
Popular area: Check pc.gc.ca/BanffNow
for real-time parking status and transit
or shuttle options.
Roam Public Transit
Schedules: roamtransit.com
Accessible Parking
8
Stew
RV Parking
art C
Lake Washroom
anyo
Minnewanka
Picnic Area
n 1.
5 km
Picnic Shelter
Lake Viewpoint
Minnewanka Exhibit
Lake Minnewanka
8 Day-use Area Boat Launch
Boat Tours
Ca
sc
ad
Snack Bar
e1
Summer only
4.6
km
Expect bikes on trail
Bucket List
Details Page 6
Reservable Campground
C-
Le
Details page 8
ve
lC
irq
Easy trail
ue
4
km
Two Jack Lake Moderate trail
Day-use Area
Upper Difficult trail
Bankhead
Trans-Canada Highway
Two Jack
Road
Lake
Lower
Two Jack Main 4 Road closed in winter
Bankhead
Campground
5 Two Jack
Lakeside
Campground
Find your Red Chairs
1.1 km
parkscanada.gc.ca/redbanff
West side of the
Lake Minnewanka Loop
Closed in winter
CLEAN DRAIN DRY
Prevent the transport of aquatic invasive
0 1
species between waterways by using the
boat wash station at Johnson Lake.
Kilometres parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-whirling
N Boating restrictions:
parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-boating
loop
m
1k
13.
d
2.
oa
Cascade Ponds R
2
a
nk
km
Day-use Area
ew a
Minn
Lake
Johnson
Cascade Lake Johnson Lake
Ponds
Water Tower 3.8 km km
2.8
ighway
y Trail 29 km da H
gac -Cana Ca
Le Trans sc
ad
Trail maps 7 eR
ive
available at a r
Creek
Parks Canada Ca scade
visitor centre Tun
or at: n
Ba
el Moun Canmore
tai
nff
n Calgary
parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-brochures Ro
Ave
ad
n
ue
Town of Banff Town of
Lake Louise Banff
14 1Interpretive Programs and Activities
Meet Parks Canada’s Interpreters
Want to discover more about the uniqueness of the area’s natural and
cultural heritage? Friendly and knowledgeable interpreters are here to
share the stories of Parks Canada’s protected places.
Look for interpreters at campgrounds, popular day-use areas and
downtown Banff throughout the summer and at national historic sites
during various times of the year.
Visit parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-interpretation for more information on
Parks Canada
interpretive programs and activities in Banff National Park and national
historic sites.
Visit parkscanada.gc.ca/bnp-events for event listings.
Explore with your preschooler
Parka is eagerly waiting to introduce your child to the wonders of Parks Canada places.
Parka encourages kids to explore the world around them, whether on a hike along wilderness
trails or a step back in history at a site.
Are you 6-11 years old?
Check out Parks Canada’s Xplorers booklets filled with fun activities to do while visiting. In
Banff National Park there are five different booklets to complete: Banff National Park, Lake
Louise, Icefields Parkway, Cave and Basin and Banff Park Museum national historic sites.
Don’t forget to ask for Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site’s Xplorers booklet when
you are there.
Award-winning storybook
A Beary, Berry Good Day is a 48-page bilingual children’s book that shares important
messages with the next generation of national park visitors. Find out how to help protect
Canada’s national parks and the wildlife that call these special places home. A Beary, Berry
Good Day is available for purchase at Parks Canada visitor centres and select locations
around town. First place winner of the 2019 Book Interpretive Media Award from the
National Association for Interpretation, the 2018 Silver Non-Personal Interpretation Award of
Excellence from Interpretation Canada and the 2018 Tourism Content ALTO Alberta Tourism
Awards. Visit parkscanada.gc.ca/Banff-BearBook for more information.
Hidden Lake – A mosaic unveiled
Moderate hike, Lake Louise area, ages 5+
This guided experience begins with a shuttle ride that trims the hike down to a family-
friendly 10 km. Hike through wildflowers and larches as you learn about the restoration
project protecting westslope cutthroat trout, a species at risk.
Visit reservation.pc.gc.ca to book your spot.
Parks Canada
1516
Visitor centre Bus parking Heritage train station Lake Louise Village Area
MAP NOT TO SCALE
Wifi Campground Ski area
N
Tran
r
Washroom Recreational vehicles Gondola
Rive
s-Ca
Vi
Picnic area Trailers Post office
Pipestone
lla
nada
Day parking
ge
Post
Pipestone Road
Playground Tent trailers Gas station
Ro
Hotel
High
ad
Roam public transit Gate / kiosk Propane w
ay
roamtransit.com
Hotel Police
e
Parks Canada shuttle Driv
Hostel Medical clinic uise Gondola
parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-transit e Lo
Lak Bow Valley
Exhibit Bucket List Parkway
Parking Details page 6 Se
Park only in designated lots. Do Interpretation nti 2 hours
ne maximum
not park along the road. Community pathway lR
oa
Canoe docks d
Mountaineer
Bo
Electric fence Lodge Park and Ride 6 km
w
Parking (limited) Lookout Banff 56 km
Ri
Louise Creek Trail Campground Calgary 184 km
ve
Railway
r
RV parking Horseback riding Tramline Trail Lake Louise Lakeshore
Moraine Lake
Lake Louise Area Map
Icefields North
Parkway
West gate 11 80 km
Yoho National Park 11 km Check pc.gc.ca/BanffNow for real-time
Next gas station (summer only) 80 km
Field 27 km
Takakkaw Falls 38 km Columbia Icefield 127 km parking status and transit or shuttle options.
Emerald Lake 39 km Icefie
lds P Jasper 230 km
Golden 85 km arkw
ay
Vancouver 794 km
S la Pipestone
Hiking Trails te R
oa Parking
d Area 5
Pipestone
1 Bow River Loop Pedestrian
Bridge
Gondola
2 Tramline
Ski area
3 Louise Creek
Skoki Ski Lodge
Industrial National Historic
4 Great Divide Compound Site 15 km
Sh
Tra
n r
5 Pipestone s-C ve
eo ana Ri
lR da ne
oa Hig to
6 Moraine Lake Highline d hw pes
ay Pi Fish Creek
Heritage Lake Louise
7 Moraine Lake Lakeshore Train Station Hidden Lake
ad ck
d
Unveiled Guided
d
Ro leba
Lake Louise Hike (see page 15)
Sa
8 Rock Pile Inn
Village
1536 m
Se
oad
9 Consolation Lakes
nti
ne
l
Vill
Bo 1 ag Village North - Shuttles to campground (free)
w HI Lake Louise
eR
Ro
10 Larch Valley oa
Hector R
Alpine Centre
itehor n Drive
Ri d
ad
ve
r Roam Route 8X/8S to
Post
Wh
11 Lake Louise Lakeshore Hotel Lake Louise Lakeshore ($)
Pipestone Road
Village South - With proof of reservations
Easy Moderate Difficult only, shuttles to Park and Ride (free)
Bo
w
1
Samson
Va
Roam Route 8X/8S to Banff ($)
lle
Mall
y
ve
P ar
Bikes welcome Pedal assist
Dri
kw
e-bikes allowed 2 East
is e
ayy
Mountaineer
Lodge Corral Creek
Lo
Picnic Area 4km
e
k
La Protection Mountain
Avalanche risk: Avoid high elevation trails Campground 16 km
from November to June due to avalanche
NO LEFT TURN to or Johnston Canyon 30 km
risk. Check the trail report before departing: 1 Recreation
from Moraine Lake Road Banff 56 km
Fa
parkscanada.gc.ca/banfftrails Centre
ir
between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily
vie
w
from mid-May to mid-October.
Dr
Use the Lake Louise Lakeshore
ive
parking lot to turn around and
access on the return journey.
3
Lake Louise
Trans
4
Lakeshore 1
-Ca
1731 m 3
Chateau
nada
Lake Louise Campground
Lake Agnes kiosk
St Piran
and teahouse Lak
Highw
Deer
ek
eL
ou
ay
re
Lodge
Road
ise
Plain of Dri C
Six Glaciers ve se Paradise
Lake ui 2
and teahouse 11 L ouis e D ri v e Lo Bungalows
11
Campground-Shuttles for campers to:
Lake • Lake Louise Village (free)
Louise • Park and Ride (free)
Paradise
Valley
Roam Route 8X/8S
to Lake Louise Village
and Banff ($)
Lake Louise Lakeshore- East
Reservation holders only,
shuttles to: 25 km
km
Saddleback • Moraine Lake ($) 11 Lake Louise Kootenay National Park 36 km
Fairview oad
Lookout • Lake Louise Village ($) R Banff 56 km
ke
La Campground Canmore 82 km
i
ne Radium Hot Springs 129 km
ra
Moraine Lake Road 1536 m
6 Calgary 184 km
Mo
This road opens only when
parking is available at the
lake. Shuttles available.
Closed to vehicles from
mid-October to late-May
due to high avalanche risk.
1
Moraine Lake-Reservation
holders only, shuttles to:
Bo
e ek
w
• Lake Louise Lakeshore ($) e Cr Ri 1
ai n ve
• Lake Louise Village ($) or r
M
• Park and Ride ($) 9
Moraine
Lake 8
Lodge Rock
Larch Pile
Valley 7 Moraine
Ba
10 Moraine
Lake
bel Cre
Eiffel Lake 1887 m Park and Ride
ek
N Lake 6 km east of Lake Louise Village
7
Park and Ride-Reservation
holders only, shuttles to:
• Lake Louise Lakeshore ($)
• Moraine Lake: ($)
MAP NOT TO SCALE Consolation
Lakes
17Pyramid
2762 m
18
V
n
Pyramid
ce
Jasper
Pr anc
16 Lake
nto
1000 m
1200 m
1400 m
1600 m
1800 m
2000 m
2100 m
in ou
16
v
0
mo
or
233
0 233 Jasper Townsite RCMP
Ge er
ge
Ed
er
a Riv
sc
5
2 231 Whistlers (CLOSED FOR THE SEASON)
ba
228
ha
At
N M
Whistlers
al
Whistlers
2469 m
i gn
Wapiti
Wapiti
e
Jasper Skytram (April to October)
Ri
10
223
KM FROM JASPER
ve
Valley of
r
ek
rtal C r e Five Lakes Jacques
KM FROM JASPER
Po Lake
4 229 Wapiti (Summer and Winter) Tekarra
KM FROM LAKE LOUISE
15
218
Junction with 93A
93N 2693 m
Aquila
KM FROM LAKE LOUISE
2880 m
ELEVATION PROFILE
ICEFIELDS PARKWAY
Ast
6 227 Junction with Highway 93A o
ri
a R i ver
Wabasso
20
Beaver
213
Access to Cavell Road Wabasso
Lake
Valley of Five Lakes
Lake
Medicine
Lake
25
208
Wabasso (early May to late September) Edith Cavell Curator
3367 m 2624 m
Highway 93A rejoins Parkway at Athabasca Falls Moab
Lake
93A
30
203
9 224 Valley of the Five Lakes Whirlpool
River Athabasca Falls Hardisty
2715 m
14 219 Wabasso Lake
35
198
Athabasca Falls
Geraldine
Lakes
Kerkeslin Kerkeslin
25 208 Athabasca Pass Lookout 2955 m
40
193
Jasper
30 203 Athabasca Falls Fryatt
Maligne
Mount Kerkeslin
3360 m
National Lake
45
Junction with Hwy 93A
188
Park
r
ive
32 201 Athabasca Falls Hostel Christie Samson
50
183
Lake
Brussels 3102 m
eR
3076 m
3360 m
lign
Honeymoon
Ma
34 199 Kerkeslin (mid-May to late September) Osprey Lake
Sunwapta Falls
55
MAX 25 FT
178
Honeymoon
Buck Lake
Unwin
3300 m Charlton
37 196 Goats and Glaciers
3260 m
Maligne
60
Endle
173
Sunwapta Falls
3200 m
ss C
41 192 Mount Christie
hain
65
168
Ridg
Monkhead
e
50 183 Honeymoon Lake (mid-May to late September) 3211 m
MAX 25 FT 93N
a Brazeau
70
163
54 179 Sunwapta Falls ab 3525 m
Ch iver
Sunwapta Falls Resort (mid-May to mid-October) R
Gong Lake
75
Poboktan Creek
158
72 161
Poboktan
Jonas
R i ve r
Creek
77 156 Jonas (mid-May to mid-September) Gong
80
153
MAX 25 FT Jonas
3121 m
Icefields Parkway Map – Summer Driving Guide
sca
iver
Nelson
84 149 Mushroom and Diadem Peaks 3150 m
pta R
Jo
Ath aba
GEC
85
148
na
3130 m
sC
Sunwa
Mushroom
ree
85 148 Beauty Creek Hostel
k
3622 m
Alberta
90
143
3622 m Poboktan
Wooley
87 146 Beauty Creek 3405 m Sunwapta
3317 m
95
138
94 139 Stutfield Glacier Stutfield
3453 m
Be a u
ty Brazeau
The Twins
133
100
Lake
Cr e
96 137 Tangle Falls. Watch for sheep! 3561 m/3686 m Tangle C
ree
ek k
Columbia
128
105
Kitchener
Icefield RV
103 130 Icefield Centre (mid-April to mid-October) 3750 m Icefield Centre
3505 m
Icefield Centre
Parks Canada information (May-September)
Snowdome
Icefield RV Glacier View Inn 3459 m
123
110
Wilcox
Wilcox Pass
104 129 Icefield Tent (early June to mid-October) COLUMBIA Athabasca
ICEFIELD 3493 m SUNWAPTA PASS
2030 m
ek
Wilcox
Icefield Tent
el
118
115
MAX 25 FT
Cre
Wilcox Pass
Parker Ridge
106 127
Nig
Wilcox (early June to September) Hilda
Creek Hostel
Banff
113
120
108 125 SUNWAPTA PASS (Banff and Jasper boundary) Parker Ridge
National Cirrus3270 m
111 122 Hilda Creek Hostel Park
108
125
Weeping Wall
Saskatchewan
112 121 Parker Ridge 3344 m
103
130
Alexandra
116 117 Nigel Pass River
Coleman
98
135
3135 m
Coleman Creek
Bridal Veil Falls Amery Pinto
117 120 3329 m Lake
93
140
Rampart Creek Hostel
124 109 Weeping Wall mpart
Rampart Ra
88
A rctomys Cree k
Cree k
145
131 102 Coleman Creek WILSON
Rampart Creek
ICEFIELD
Erasmus
83
3265 m
150
137 96 Sunset Pass and Sunset Lookout Wilson
3261 m
Saskatchewan
Glacier
91 River Crossing
78
142 Rampart Creek Hostel (year-round) Lake
155
Rampart Creek (early June to late October)
MAX 25 FT er
Ri v
152 81 Glacier Lake Forbes North
Re
73
3612 m Sa
160
sk
dD
at
ee
Howse
Sarbach
r
che
153 80 Saskatchewan River Crossing 3127 m
wa
Kaufmann
n
68
Murchison
i ver
11
165
Ri
Junction: David Thompson Highway (# 11) 3109 m
R
ve
3333 m
r
Epaulette
The Crossing Resort (mid-March to mid-November) 3095 m
To Rocky Mountain House
Mi s taya
79
63
154 Howse Pass National Historic Site (175 km)
170
Chephren Totem
3266 m 3155 m
Waterfowl
159 74 Mistaya Canyon Waterfowl Lakes
58
175
Chephren Lake No
ye
s
Cirque Lake Major highway
Cr
Waterfowl Lakes (mid-June to early September)
Waterfowl Lakes
173 60 Aries Mistaya
MAX 25 FT 2996 m Minor highway
53
Lake
180
Chephren Lake, Cirque Lake Noyes
Silverhorn 3084 m Park boundary
S
i lve
Silverhorn Creek (early June to end of September) r
Mountain peak
horn
48
185
Patterson Weed
3197 m 3080 m Glacier/Icefield
190 43 Bow Summit / Peyto Lake Peyto
Caldron Campground
Lake Observation
43
CLOSED FOR THE SEASON 2917 m
190
Closed in 2020. 3174 m
Peyto Lake Viewpoint
The Peyto Lake day use area, including Bow Pass
the viewpoint and viewing platform, is 2067 m
Bow Summit
193 40 Bow Glacier, Bow Glacier Falls Bow Lake Trailhead
38
and Peyto Lake
closed for improvements. Entry strictly
195
Cirque
Num-Ti-Jah Lodge (May-October) prohibited. Maximum fine: $25,000 CDN. 2993 m
parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-construction RV camping
Bow Glacier
Bow Lake
Lake RV max 25 ft/ 7.5 m
33
196 37 Bow Lake
200
Crowfoot Glacier Katherine
WAPTA MAX 25 FT
Crowfoot
ICEFIELD 3050 m 93N Dolomite Picnic site
197 36 Crowfoot Glacier Bow 2782 m
28
205
Balfour 2868 m
Helen Lake, Dolomite Pass 3272 m Hostel
Mosquit
o
Helen Lake
Mosquito
Cr
e
Creek Hostel ek Information Centre
Crowfoot Glacier
23
Mosquito Creek (early June to mid-October)
210
206 27
MAX 25 FT Food
Mosquito Creek Hostel (year-round) WAPUTIK Hector
Lake
Mosquito Creek
ICEFIELD Lodging
Molar Pass
18
215
212 21 Hector Lake Daley Fuel
Molar
Va
m
R i ver
3002 m Telephone
Ka nc
13
o
220
s
Bow
214 19 Hector Lake Hector
lo uve
Tramway/gondola
op r
3394 m
Toilets
8
225
227 6 Herbert Lake
Cyclone
Herbert Lake
3
3042 m
Victoria
230
230 3 Junction: Trans-Canada Highway and Icefields Parkway 3459 m
0
233 0 Lake Louise RCMP
233
KM FROM LAKE LOUISE
KM FROM JASPER
Ptarmigan
KM FROM LAKE LOUISE
Lake
KM FROM JASPER
Lake Louise 3059 m
Banff 59 km Louise
Redoubt
RCMP 2902 m
Calgary
Banff
Temple
3543 m
Kilometres
0 10 20 30 40 50
0 10 20 30
19
MilesMountain Wildlife
cs
Characteristiber of the cs
The smallest m
em Characteristi
underside
as a piercing te
rabbit family. H Red body, whi
like a high- e, bushy tail.
call that sounds and very larg
pitched “eep.”
Where to fins,d
da
st
Cana
Coniferous fore
Where to find trees.
M. Bradley
up
R. Schmidt/Parks
d scampering
Rock slides an
talus slopes.
Pika Red Squirrel
cs
Characteristiof the rodent cs
Characteristinger
r
A larger membe Lo
-b ro wn in colour Tan-coloured.
family. Silver gh-
ir. Has a body. Has a hi
with longer ha k.”
ll that sounds pitched “squea
high-pitched ca
d
Where to finde
like a whistle.
s si
Meadows, road
Where to findine and townsites in
M. Bradley
lp
Alpine and suba underground co
lonies.
ck piles
R. Gruys
meadows, ro
es .
and scree slop
ot Columbian
Hoary Marm Ground Squir
rel
TALL LARGE
EARS HEAD
NO DISTINCTIVE
SHOULDER SHOULDER
HUMP HUMP
SHORT
ROUNDED
Grizzly SMALL EARS
GRIZZLY BEAR
HEAD
BLACK BEAR
or Black
Bear? LONG
CLAWS
M. Bradley
SHORT
Parks Canada
CLAWS
You are in bear country!
• Be aware, bears can be anywhere at any time. • Always keep children nearby and in sight.
Watch for fresh scat, tracks or large diggings. • Never approach or feed a bear. Stay 10 bus
• Make noise! Sing, yell, talk loudly and travel in lengths or 100 metres away.
groups of 4 or more when possible. • Always carry bear spray, ensure it is accessible
• Dogs must be on a leash and under control and know how to use it.
at all times—It is the law. Visit: parkscanada.gc.ca/bears-and-people
Size Chart Bison Bear Moose Elk Deer Sheep Goat Wolf Coyote Squirrel
20cs
Characteristis cs
Tan colour, tail
ha
Characteristi
light brown
ys
rside and is d
White rump an
G ru
white un de
R.
Female curved
a flag k
held erect like fur. Males: thic
ed . es : short
when alarm horns. Femal
narrow horns.
Where to findms.
Mostly valley bo
tto
Where to findterrain.
M. Bradley
y
Near steep rock
M. Bradley
7 cm
White-tailed
Deer
8 cm
p
Bighorn Shee
cs
Characteristirge ears,
il, la cs
Black tip on ta
ey colour. Characteristis, beard,
white rump, gr horn
Narrow black
Where to findms. long white hair.
tto
Mostly valley bo
Where to findterrain.
Parks Canada
y
Parks Canada Near steep rock
7 cm
Mule Deer
8 cm
at
cs
Characteristier neck Mountain Go
rk
Brown body, da
n rump patch.
and large ta cs
Backwards slan
ting antlers. Characteristier hump.
ld
Long legs, shou
with a large
Where to find open a hors e
Built like
ike antlers.
Valley bottoms
and head. Shovel-l
ly seen
M. Bradley
areas. Common d
around towns
ites. Where to finareas.
y
Wet and marsh
11.5 cm
Parks Canada
Elk
15 cm
Moose
cs tics
Characteristierman Characteris
eG Similar to a
Built like a larg
longer legs. medium-sized
dog.
Shepherd, with
ry from white Thick, bushy
tail.
Colour can va
n
to black. Greyish-brow
in colou r.
Where to findms. d
Where to fin
M. Bradley
tto
Mainly valley bo
s.
Valley bottom
R. Gruys
12 cm
7 cm
Wolf
Coyote
21Wildlife Need Your Help
#WildlifeRules in Banff National Park
Banff National Park is a gateway to nature, adventure and discovery. The chance to observe wildlife as they
go about their natural lives is a fascinating experience that draws millions of people to the park each year.
Along with this opportunity, however, comes the responsibility to treat wildlife with the respect they deserve.
Follow these #WildlifeRules to protect wildlife and keep Banff National Park a special place. Learn more at
parkscanada.gc.ca/WildlifeRules and throughout this guide.
Wildlife Rule #1: Help keep animals away from human food.
Human food kills wildlife.
Wildlife that eat
human food or
garbage become
aggressive with
Wildlife quickly find any food, Once wildlife develop a taste for people. This puts
scented items or garbage that human food, they often become both people and
is left unattended. Eating these aggressive in their search for more. wildlife at risk of
unnatural foods teaches the This places you and others in being hurt
wildlife to approach people for danger as they search for food or or killed.
an easy meal. garbage that is not properly stored.
Properly store all food and scented items.
A clean campsite or picnic area does not have anything that will attract wildlife (food, garbage,
food-related or scented items). Never leave these items unattended:
• Coolers – full or empty
• Food – wrapped,
unwrapped or
in containers
• Garbage/wrappers
ALL food-related and scented
• Dishes/pots/cutlery – items MUST be stored away in
clean or dirty a vehicle,
• Beverage containers –
full or empty
• Pet food/bowls –
full or empty
• Bottles/cans –
open or unopened
• Scented products – a hard-sided trailer or RV,
such as shampoo,
toothpaste, candles,
citronella, dish soap,
sunscreen, lip balm,
dish towels
• Barbecues –
clean or dirty
• Any other items used or in a campground food
for food preparation or storage locker.
that have a smell
or scent
Never leave food or scented items unattended or in a tent for even a minute.
22Always keep your campsite and picnic area clean.
When you are done cooking or eating at your picnic table, all food, food-related and scented items MUST
be stored:
• In a hard-sided vehicle, trailer or motor home, NOT in tents or tent trailers
• In campground food storage lockers
Non-food items such as lawn chairs, tables or lanterns may be left outside. Items such as coolers, cook
stoves, dish towels and toothpaste must be properly stored.
Dump dish water down outdoor sinks or at the sani-dump in campgrounds.
All food, food-related and scented items Cooler, stove and dishes (dirty or clean) Non-scented items may be left outside.
MUST be stored away. MUST be stored away.
Wildlife Rule #2: Put garbage in the wildlife-proof garbage bins.
Wildlife will feed on garbage: littering means
feeding wildlife. Ensure all garbage and recycling
are disposed in wildlife-proof bins immediately.
• If you see garbage or recycling left outside in the
town of Banff, call Bylaw Services
at 403-762-1218 (8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days
a week).
• After hours, call Parks Canada Banff Dispatch at
403-762-1470.
How to use the wildlife-proof garbage bins.
Place your hand inside the Raise your arm to open the lid. Lower the lid.
handle and push it to the very Dispose of garbage. Ensure the lid is closed tight
back to release the latch. before leaving.
23Wildlife Rule #3: Give wildlife the space they need.
For photos, do not surround, Photograph wildlife from a vehicle or safe distance:
crowd or follow an animal. Use • 30 metres for deer, elk, moose and bighorn sheep
zoom or show the animal in its
natural surroundings and crop • 100 metres for cougars, bears, coyotes and wolves
the image later.
Do not startle wildlife. If you make them move, you are too close.
Give them space.
Dogs stress wildlife.
Dogs cause stress for wildlife. Dogs, like wolves and coyotes, may be seen as a threat. Off-leash
dogs can trigger aggressive behaviour from wildlife such as grizzly bears and elk. To prevent unsafe
situations, it is your responsibility to:
Ensure your Pick up and Do not leave pet food
dog is on a dispose of your out. If you walk away,
leash and pet’s waste in store food dishes –
under control a wildlife-proof empty or full. Always
at all times. garbage bin. store food dishes
at night.
Dogs are not allowed on some trails:
parkscanada.gc.ca/banfftrails
Consider leaving your dog at home if you plan to camp, hike or go into the backcountry.
Wildlife Rule #4: Slow down. Obey speed limits.
If you see wildlife by the road,
slow down, stay in your vehicle
and move on.
• Be aware of the traffic
around you.
• Pull over where safe to do so.
• Turn on hazard lights.
• Stay in your vehicle.
• Watch for a few moments,
take a quick photo, and then
move on.
• If a traffic jam develops, move
Parks Canada
on. It is unsafe for people
and wildlife.
24Keeping Your Children Safe.
Bears, cougars, wolves and coyotes may be curious about children and can attack them:
• Keep children in immediate sight and within close reach at all times.
• Children should avoid playing in or near areas with tall grass or dense bushes.
• Never allow children to pet, feed or pose with wildlife.
To Learn More About Wildlife and Safety
Pick up a copy of Keep the Wild in Wildlife and Bears and People at a Parks Canada
visitor centre or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-brochures.
Information available in French, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish and German.
Report bear, cougar, wolf and coyote sightings and encounters to Parks Canada Banff Dispatch
when it is safe to do so: 403-762-1470
It is illegal to feed, entice or disturb any wildlife in a national park.
Violators will be charged, be required to appear in court, and could pay fines up to $25 000.
Bison Return to Banff
Bison once roamed Banff National Park, but until recently, they had
not been seen in the wild for over 140 years.
In 2017, Parks Canada reintroduced a small herd of plains bison
into Banff’s eastern slopes and held them in a pasture for 1.5 years
to prepare them for life in the mountains. In summer 2018, the herd
was released into the wild and now roams a large area in Banff’s
backcountry.
Parks Canada
Bringing bison back benefits a range of plants and animals. Their
return reconnects cultural links between people and bison, and
creates opportunities for Canadians and visitors to learn about this
iconic creature.
Follow the journey of returning North America’s largest land mammal to Canada’s first national park:
Follow the herd: #Banffbison @BanffNP Twitter Facebook
To experience bison up close at other Parks Canada locations in Alberta, visit Rocky Mountain House National
Historic Site or Elk Island National Park.
Volunteering in Banff National Park
Are you looking for a unique experience during
your trip to Banff National Park? Volunteers play an
important part in keeping the park healthy and safe
for people and wildlife.
Anyone can volunteer—learn more and sign up:
parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-volunteer
AV Wakefield
25Parks Canada
Parks Canada
K. Trivers
Mountain Safety
Unpredictable mountain weather can change road and trail conditions quickly and wildlife can be anywhere,
at any time. These simple precautions will help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:
Before heading out, check trail conditions at parkscanada.gc.ca/banfftrails, and road
conditions. Visit 511.alberta.ca, call 511 in Alberta or 1-855-391-9743.
Obey speed limits and watch for wildlife on the roadside, even on fenced
portions of a highway. Sometimes wildlife (bears, cougars) get through or
over the fence.
Stay on designated roads, trails and other hardened surfaces.
Make noise on the trails and let wildlife know you are coming.
Be aware of your surroundings. Earbuds or headphones prevent you from hearing wildlife and increase
your risk of a dangerous encounter.
Carry bear spray, ensure it is accessible, and know how to use it. Animals are active in the park at all
times of the year—even bears can wake up during the winter.
Watch a video here: parkscanada.gc.ca/bearspray. Bear spray and more information are available at
Parks Canada visitor centres.
Keep clear of cliffs, ledges and fast-moving water.
Research and plan overnight trips including potential trail restrictions and closures, avalanche
conditions and mandatory backcountry permits.
Visit avalanche.pc.gc.ca and parkscanada.gc.ca/banff-backcountry for more information.
Cell phone coverage is not reliable in many areas of the park. Always let someone know your
travel plans.
26Conservation Stories
Creating New Fish Habitat
During 2018 and 2019, Parks Canada
completed channel restoration works in
Cascade Creek, including construction of
fish habitat features like riffles, pools and
boulders runs. Parks Canada staff and
contractors, supported by members of
Banff National Park’s volunteer program,
are continuing work to restore native
riparian plant communities which stabilize
soils, shade the stream to maintain cooler
water temperatures and provide a source
J. Jimmo/Parks Canada
of insects for fish. All of this work is in
preparation for the re-introduction of native
fish species back into their historic home,
including Westslope Cutthroat Trout (a
species at risk), scheduled for 2021.
Giving Safe Passage to Wildlife
Parks Canada began twinning the Trans-Canada Highway
in the early 1980s. This allowed testing innovative ways to
reduce vehicle collisions with wildlife while allowing animals to
move safely from one side of the Bow River Valley to the other.
Highway fencing and wildlife crossing structures were largely
untested ideas until Banff National Park installed fencing and
44 wildlife crossing structures: six overpasses and
38 underpasses.
A variety of wildlife now cross the highway safely. Black
bears and cougars prefer underpasses; grizzly bears prefer
overpasses. Parks Canada proved that roads can be made
safer for people and wildlife. Many other highways across North
America now have fences and crossing structures like those
pioneered here in Banff National Park.
Parks Canada
To learn more, visit the wildlife crossing exhibit just west of
Redearth on the Trans-Canada Highway (accessible
westbound only). See map on page 9.
Managing Fire in the Park
In addition to prescribed fires and FireSmart work in the Bow
Valley, Parks Canada is expanding an existing fire guard on the
west side of Sulphur Mountain. The project reduces the risk of
wildfires to the town of Banff and also improves grizzly bear
habitat. Decades of fire suppression created dense forests
with significant amounts of woody debris, increasing the risk
of wildfire. Through this multi-year project, Parks Canada will
selectively remove trees and deadfall and prune branches from
Parks Canada
approximately 300 hectares of forest. Keeping the public safe
is a top priority, and the West Sulphur project contributes to
that goal.
27S. Munn
R. Bray
R. Bray
National Park Regulations
Stay Safe and Enjoy
Following park regulations while enjoying the national parks helps protect people, landscapes,
and wildlife:
Camping is permitted in designated campgrounds only. A valid camping permit and
national park entry pass are required. Do not sleep in your vehicle or RV roadside, at
pull-outs, or pitch a tent in an area that is not a campground.
Be considerate of others.
In campgrounds, alcohol and cannabis cannot be consumed beyond your registered
campsite. There is a daily ban on alcohol and cannabis consumption during quiet hours,
between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. During summer long weekends (May – September), the
possession and consumption of alcohol and cannabis are not permitted in any campground.
Drones/Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are prohibited for personal use anywhere in
the national parks.
Pets must be on a leash and under control at all times. Collect and discard feces in
wildlife-proof garbage bins.
Do not feed any wildlife. It is illegal to feed wildlife—this includes littering and leaving food
or scented items unattended.
Do not litter. Use the wildlife-proof garbage bins for all unwanted items.
Take only photographs. It is illegal to pick flowers, mushrooms, cut down trees,
branches, remove rocks, cultural artifacts or otherwise cause damage to natural objects
or living things.
100 m/330’
Give us
space. 30 m/100’
Do not approach wildlife.
A. Athwal
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