Access Updates
From Facebook
A reminder that the public input period ends on September 9th regarding potential access issues in Banff National Park.![]()
![]()
As many of you are aware, for the second year in a row this past summer, Parks Canada closed a stretch of the 1a to vehicular traffic for cycling. Parks is now soliciting feedback to make the closure permanent. There are a number of climbing areas that are potentially impacted including Guides Rock. For full details on the Parks Canada proposal, check here. (www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/banff/info/gestion-management/cyclisme-cycling) Feedback can be sent to opinion@canada.ca
Bow Valley Parkway Access & Enhanced Cycling Opportunity – Public Engagement
www.pc.gc.ca
Parks Canada is committed to protecting natural and cultural resources while providing high-quality and meaningful experiences to visitors. The Bow Valley Parkway, a 48km scenic road connecting Banff to Lake Louise in Banff National Park currently offers a number of experiences such as road cycling,...
Please note the changes to climbing areas access along Highway 1. It is our understanding that Acephale is no longer in the closure area. For more information see:
Note the Alberta Environment and Parks announcement about the start of construction at Grassi Lakes. We will be posting updates promptly, however we are recommending you check the AEP advisory pages for the most current information. ![]()
![]()
www.albertaparks.ca/parks/kananaskis/canmore-nordic-centre-pp/advisories/?type=Partial%20Closure&...
Changes to Grassi Closure Status![]()
![]()
The initial plans for the upgrading the trails, platforms and other infrastructure for the climbing area at Grassi Lakes called for a two month closure of the entire area starting in May. For a variety of reasons Covid related (e.g., staffing and crew availability, materials availability) there has been changes to the plans. Rather than the full closure of the area for the entire time, access restrictions to the climbing site will be done on an as needed basis. Practically, it means that there will windows of time where people can access some or all of the climbing areas while the construction is being done. Great news given the other closures in the area!![]()
![]()
The downside of the greater access is that it will be difficult to plan ahead or schedule when these closures or partial closures to the climbing area will happen. In normal circumstances the variables involved in a project like this include weather, site conditions, and crew availability. With Covid and supply chain problems with materials, it will be more unpredictable. The result is that there will be short notice on the closures. Parks is recommending that everyone who is planning to go climbing at Grassi Lakes should check on the advisory page before going, and go with the expectation that access may be restricted to some areas or entirely. ![]()
![]()
The construction at Grassi is expected to start later in June. Announcements about the start of the project will be on the AEP website, and of course we’ll have it on the CASA website and share it on FB. We’ve been ensured AEP will strive to have the advisory page on their website updated in a timely manor. Obviously, understanding of the situation and some patience on the part of the climbing community will go a long way to making this work for all involved.
From Our Blog
-
)
Stowed Gear Must be Cleared
August 29, 2019 -
)
Drone Use Reminder from Parks
August 3, 2018