Late spring delays park openings
May 12, 2011 — Parks Canada has given notice that due to high snow pack, a cold spring and damage from avalanches, some campgrounds and trail openings previously scheduled for the May long weekend are having to be postponed to a later date.
Field
Parks Canada is working to clear snow and debris and re-open destinations in time for the long weekend but fewer sites and services will be available and some closures can be expected. Where possible, some alternative campsites will be opened. Contact a Parks Canada visitor centre before making plans for weekend activities in this area.
Kootenay National Park
With construction enhancements hampered by extreme winter weather, Redstreak Campground near Radium Hot Springs will remain closed until June 1st. A limited number of sites with limited services will be available at McLeod Meadows Campground, 28 km from Radium off Hwy. 93 South. Many day-use areas and hiking trails are still inaccessible due to snow. Call 250-347-9505 or visit http://www.pc.gc.ca/kootenay for the most up-to-date information. And visit http://www.radiumhotsprings.com for local camping information.
Yoho National Park
Kicking Horse Campground will be closed due to high snow pack. A limited number of sites with limited services will be available at nearby Monarch Campground. Many day-use areas and hiking trails are still inaccessible due to snow. Call 250-343-6783 or visit http://www.pc.gc.ca/yoho for detailed information.
Banff National Park
Tunnel Mountain Village 1 and Tunnel Mountain Trailer will be open by the long weekend. Two Jack Lakeside and Two Jack Main will be closed. Lake Louise Tent will be closed but Lake Louise Trailer will be open. The re-opening of Moraine Lake Road is delayed by deep snow cover. Call 403-762-1550 (Banff) or 403-522-3833 (Lake Louise) for up-to-date details or visit http://www.gc.pc.ca/banff .
If camping on the May long weekend looks uncertain, why not plan to take a road trip instead and experience the mountain parks through the car window on the passenger’s side? There is a beautiful drive through the Ice Fields Parkway. Or Highway 93 north, formerly called the ‘Wonder Trail’ parallels the continental divide, traversing the rugged Rocky Mountain landscape where it connects Banff and Jasper National Parks. Wherever your drive takes you, be sure to take your camera and watch out for wildlife on the roads.
