Access to Moraine Lake will be limited in 2023, with Parks Canada’s decision to close the main point of entry to personal vehicles year-round. (Photo: Chudobalubomir | Dreamstime.com)

By The Canadian Press

Alberta

Parks Canada says decision to restrict private vehicles at Moraine Lake necessary

Jan 10, 2023 | 3:05 PM

LAKE LOUISE, Alta. – Parks Canada says a decision to restrict personal vehicles at one of the most popular tourist destinations in Banff National Park was necessary to balance the growing number of visitors with protecting the environment.

The federal agency announced Friday that it was closing the Moraine Lake road to most personal vehicles.

It says visitors will be required to take its shuttles, local transit or commercial vehicles to visit the iconic blue alpine lake and its nearby climbing routes and hiking trails this year.

Visitors with disability hang tags and cyclists can also use the road.

But Alberta minister of forestry, parks and tourism Todd Loewen says it could reduce visitor access to the popular tourist area.

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Jed Cochrane, who is Park’s Canada visitor experience manager for the area, says the move is an attempt to improve access.

He says Moraine Lake is one of the most sought-after areas in Banff National Park and people were getting frustrated that they couldn’t get a spot to park in the 100-vehicle lot.

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(The Canadian Press)