Parks Canada closes road year-round to Moraine Lake in Banff
Parks Canada (PC) has officially closed the road leading to Moraine Lake to personal vehicles year-round due to safety concerns.
PC officials say the change is made due to traffic congestion, leading to safety concerns and negative visitor experiences.
According to park officials, the road was so busy last summer, which led to traffic flaggers on the road 24/7, and the parking lot was full “nearly 24 hours a day.”
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However, people who have a parking tag will be allowed to park.
“Visitors in possession of a disabled parking hang tag will be granted vehicle access to Moraine Lake. Please have your tag visible and speak to the traffic control staff when you arrive at the Moraine Lake Road Junction,” said Parks Canada on its website. “Visitors who require accessible parking but do not possess a disable parking hang tag should proceed to the Park and Ride and speak with Parks Canada staff.”
Meanwhile, visitors wanting to get to the lake will need to take a PC shuttle, public transit, taxi or a charter bus, or bike the road.
“Parks Canada shuttles, Roam Public Transit, and commercial buses are permitted from June to mid-October,” read the website.
However, officials say people should make sure they return no later than planned so they don’t miss the last shuttle.
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In case people miss the last shuttle, they will have to return on foot, bike, or arrange for private transportation.
“Visitors returning later than the last shuttle to the Park and Ride lot should note that access to Whitehorn Drive is restricted using a permanent gate between 8 pm and 6 am from May to October. Vehicles cannot be retrieved after 8 p.m. and will not be accessible until 6 a.m. the following morning,” read the website.
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PC encourages people to plan ahead before deciding to visit Banff National Park.
Up-to-date information, including the availability of parking, major traffic events, and suggestions for places to visit are available on BanffNow.
