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By Shane Clausing

August long weekend Jasper

Jasper National Park expecting busy August long weekend

Jul 30, 2021 | 5:00 AM

Jasper National Park is expected to be busy with visitors this August long weekend.

With warm temperatures and COVID-19 restrictions mostly lifted, people are eager to get out and explore the park.

Laura Coulson with Parks Canada says it’s important for people coming to the park over the August long to come prepared.

“We always tell people to plan ahead, make sure that you have a reservation before you come,” said Coulson.

“We are expecting a lot of congestion on our roadways and in our popular day areas. We just ask people to have patience as they move throughout the park and have a plan for what they’re going to do throughout the day.”

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Coulson tells EverythingGP while there are some walk-in campsites available in Jasper, the main campgrounds like Wapiti and Whistlers don’t have any walk-in spots and are mostly booked up for reservations.

Because of the warm weather, Coulson is also encouraging people to stay hydrated.

“We have a really big park with really amazing locations, but it does come with its own precautions. We are expecting another hot weekend and people are going to try and escape the heat,” she said.

“Plan ahead, use the shuttle services to get to the popular lake areas, be prepared for that hot weather and bring lots of water and food with you, even if you think it’s going to be a short hike.”

Guests are also being reminded to watch out for wildlife in the park.

“We just ask everyone to be bear aware, be animal aware. If you see animals in the park and you’re in your vehicle, stay in your vehicle to view the wildlife. Also, bring bear spray and know how to use it.”

Those that are camping in the back country should also know that a fire ban is in place.

The fire ban in place currently only affects campgrounds that don’t have regulated fire pits, like the ones seen at Whistlers and Wapiti campgrounds.

Guests are also encouraged to visit high-volume tourist areas at non-peak hours, to get the most out of their experience.