Rockies Rules & Advisory Engine

Canadian Rockies Park Rules & Advisories

Verified, real-time guidance on Parks Canada passes, Moraine Lake shuttle restrictions, bear safety, Kananaskis passes, and seasonal road closures.

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5 Active Directives

CriticalLake LouiseVerified 2026-07-27

Moraine Lake Personal Vehicle Ban in Effect

Personal commercial & private passenger vehicles are permanently prohibited on Moraine Lake Road year-round. Access is exclusively via Parks Canada Shuttle, Roam Public Transit, or authorized commercial operators.

Required Action:Reserve Parks Canada shuttle tickets in advance via Parks Canada Reservation System.

Source: Parks Canada Official DirectiveOfficial Directive

WarningBanffVerified 2026-07-27

Parks Canada Discovery Pass Required for Banff & Lake Louise

Every visitor staying in, driving through, or recreating within Banff National Park must hold a valid Parks Canada Pass. Staying in Canmore or Cochrane does NOT require a pass unless entering the national park boundary.

Required Action:Purchase online or at the East Banff National Park Gate on Highway 1.

Source: Parks Canada Pass FeesOfficial Directive

WarningKananaskis VillageVerified 2026-07-27

Kananaskis Conservation Pass Required in K-Country

Vehicles parked in Kananaskis Country and Provincial Parks require a Kananaskis Conservation Pass ($15 per day per vehicle). Canmore townsite parking does not require this pass unless travelling into Provincial Parks.

Required Action:Register license plate online at Alberta Parks prior to arrival.

Source: Alberta ParksOfficial Directive

InfoBanffVerified 2026-07-27

Wildlife & Bear Spray Regulations

Grizzly and black bears are active throughout the Bow Valley. Carry Parks Canada-approved bear spray in an easily accessible holster (not inside backpacks) on all trails.

Required Action:Rent or buy bear spray in Canmore or Banff before outdoor activities.

Source: Parks Canada Wildlife SafetyOfficial Directive

WarningBanffVerified 2026-07-27

Strict Drone Prohibition in Canadian National Parks

Recreational drone flying is illegal in all Canadian National Parks (Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, Jasper) without a special restricted research permit. Fines up to $25,000 apply.

Required Action:Leave recreational drones securely stored or at home.

Source: Transport Canada & Parks CanadaOfficial Directive