Parks Canada has some exciting news for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
The organization revealed that reservations for campsites, guided hikes, and shuttles in Banff National Park and its surrounding areas would begin to open in the last week of March, providing nature enthusiasts with ample opportunities to explore the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife of the Canadian Rockies.
Starting March 22 at 8 a.m., backcountry camping reservations in Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay national parks will become available. A day later, on March 23, visitors can secure their campsites at popular locations such as Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon, Two Jack Lake, and Silverhorn Creek in Banff National Park.
For those seeking guided hikes, the Hidden Lake trek will be open for bookings starting March 29 at 8 a.m. This scenic hike runs from July 9 to September 24 and is not to be missed. Shuttle services for Lake Louise and Moraine Lake will be available for reservations starting April 13 at 8 a.m., providing access from May 13 to October 10.
Waterton Lakes National Park’s townsite campground reservations will open on March 30 at 8 a.m., while over the border in Montana’s Glacier National Park, vehicle reservations for the Going-to-the-Sun Road Corridor, North Fork, Many Glacier Valley, and Two Medicine Valley will be available starting February 1.
Further north in Jasper, campsites at Whistlers, Wabasso, Wapiti, and Palisades will open for reservations on March 16 at 8 a.m., with backcountry camping bookings opening on March 20. Meanwhile, Elk Island’s Astotin Lake and Oster Lake Backcountry sites will be available for reservation on March 30 at 8 a.m.
In addition to these exciting reservation openings, Parks Canada will also introduce a new reservation system at the beginning of March. The updated 2023 Parks Canada Reservation Service will provide users with similar features and functions as its predecessor, although it will have a slightly different appearance. Parks Canada encourages users to log into their existing accounts before February 26 to view past bookings, as this information will no longer be available after the new system takes effect on March 3.
Parks Canada is committed to providing visitors with a seamless and efficient booking experience. The organization said that the current reservation system is becoming outdated and is being moved to a more modern platform to ensure the continued stability and reliability of the service.
So, gear up and get ready to embark on your next outdoor adventure in the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies. With campsite, guided hike, and shuttle reservations opening, it’s time to plan your escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders.
Guess what? Parks Canada has some delightful new features for campers this year! In addition to the usual campsites, they’re introducing a new reservation system to make booking even more convenient. Also, keep an eye out for special events and activities they’ll be offering throughout the season to enhance your outdoor experience. I can’t wait to plan my next adventure!