BANFF – Parks Canada has resumed collection of park entry fees at the east gate to Banff National Park.
As Banff National Park slowly begins its phased reopening, Parks Canada officials say visitors to the park now require a valid park pass for entry, which can be purchased online or in-person from specific retailers.
“Passes can also be purchased in-person at the Banff East Gate where we encourage contactless payment when possible,” said David Dunbar, a public relations and communications officer for Banff National Park.
The Banff visitor information centre remains closed for in-person information and pass sales. However, tourists can still purchase entry passes at the self-serve kiosk located adjacent to the building at 224 Banff Ave.
For current pass holders, Parks Canada will automatically extend the end date of Discovery Passes.
The end date for all Discovery Passes that were valid in the month of March 2020 will be extended by four months to cover the suspension of visitor services, plus the period of incremental resumption of visitor services during the month of June.
To ensure the safety of visitors, residents and staff, officials say Parks Canada is taking a phased approach to restoring access to the park, and in doing so, physical distancing for the public remains a critical requirement in all areas.
Dunbar said visitors are encouraged to check out the website to get information on COVID-19 and your visit to Banff National Park.
“Before arriving, find out what is open, what is closed and how to visit safely,” he said.
While some of the restrictions and closures implemented in the park to date as a result of COVID-19 have been lifted, others will remain in effect at this time.
Parks Canada reminds visitors that parking is limited to designated areas only. Busier tourists attractions such as Upper Lake Louise and Bow Lake will see caps on the number of vehicles to help people maintain social distancing regulations.
Once safety measures are in place, one lane of the Lake Minnewanka Loop will be set aside for cyclists, and vehicles will be limited to driving one-way in a counter clockwise direction.
Parking, which will be restricted to parking lots only along the Minnewanka loop, will be enforced.
Day use areas in the park, including those in the Banff townsite, Lake Minnewanka and along the Icefields Parkway are open with some restrictions. Kitchen shelters remain closed.
The Banff Upper Hot Springs, the Cave and Basin National Historic Site and Banff Park Museum remain closed.
All campgrounds and camping facilities remain closed until at least June 21.
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