Exploring Kananaskis or Banff
Canada is home to some of the world's most stunning natural landscapes, many of which are protected within national parks and conservation areas. To support the maintenance and preservation of these areas, visitors are required to purchase passes, a separate one for Banff National Park and for the provincial park in Kananaskis, Alberta.
I haven't visited the Canadian Rockies since before the COVID pandemic, so I was a little surprised that Alberta instituted a park pass for Kananaskis and Bow Valley beginning on June 1, 2021. Our home timeshare is at Banff Gate Mountain Resort, just outside of Canmore, Alberta, at Deadman's Flat on the edge of Kananaskis Park. During our week stay, we chose to buy the National Discovery Pass for $151.50 instead of the Kananaskis pass.
Needless to say, we didn't visit Kananaskis, but instead spent our time in Banff. The disadvantage of this choice was that Banff is significantly more crowded. Earlier in the week we put up with the crowds to see Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake. However, last night, we managed to avoid the crowds by visiting Johnston Canyon in Banff after dinner, and later, we drove to Lake Louise, arriving after dark. The scene at Lake Louise was spectacular, with the light reflecting off the lake and the mountain shadows in the background.
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| Lake Louise at night © John Fisher |
Here is a comparison of the two park passes and the benefits of each:
Kananaskis Conservation Pass
Cost and Registration:
The Kananaskis Conservation Pass is essential for anyone planning to visit Kananaskis Country and the Bow Valley in Alberta. A single-day pass costs $15, while an annual pass, which can be used for up to two vehicles, is priced at $90. The registration process is straightforward; once the pass is purchased, the registered license plate of your vehicle serves as the pass, eliminating the need for any physical tags or receipts.
Conditions and Enforcement:
The pass is mandatory for parking in Kananaskis and the Bow Valley. Enforcement is managed through the scanning of license plates, and vehicles that do not comply with the pass requirement may receive warnings or fines.
Benefits:
The funds generated from the Kananaskis Conservation Pass directly contribute to the conservation of the area. This includes trail maintenance, public safety services, and the upkeep of visitor centers, ensuring that these natural spaces remain accessible and enjoyable for future generations.
Banff National Park Passes
Banff National Park, along with several other parks in the Canadian Rockies, requires its own entry pass. Two main types are available: the Day Pass and the Discovery Pass.
Day Pass:
The Day Pass grants access to Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, Waterton Lakes, and Elk Island national parks. This pass is valid until 4:00 p.m. on the day after it is purchased, providing visitors with a flexible window to explore these breathtaking areas.
Discovery Pass:
For those planning to visit multiple parks or historical sites across Canada, the Discovery Pass is an excellent option. It covers entry to over 100 national parks, marine conservation areas, and historic sites for an entire year. The cost is $136.40 for a family or group, or $67.70 per adult.
Purpose and Benefits:
Both the Day Pass and Discovery Pass fees are reinvested into park preservation, essential services, and infrastructure maintenance. This includes the protection of wildlife, ensuring that parks remain pristine and accessible. Moreover, these passes provide access to some of Canada's most iconic natural wonders and cultural heritage sites, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Comparing the Passes
While both the Kananaskis Conservation Pass and the Canada National Park Passes invest in conservation and visitor experiences, they serve different regions and visitor needs. The Kananaskis Conservation Pass is ideal for those focusing on Alberta's Kananaskis and Bow Valley areas, with the annual pass providing a cost-effective option for regular visitors. In contrast, the Discovery Pass offers broader access to national parks and historic sites across Canada, making it a valuable option for travelers exploring multiple regions.
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