Adventures in Banff National Park Guide

The Terrain

The mountains of Banff National Park exist as part of a greater region referred to as the Central Rockies Ecosystem which consist of the Western Ranges, the Main Ranges, the Front Ranges and the Foothills. It is primarily the Front and Main Ranges that are found in Banff. The mountains of the Front Ranges extend from BNP’s most eastern border until just east of Castle Mountain, they are typically characterized by jagged and broken rocks forming a shingle-like appearance as in the case of the Sawback Range. The Main Ranges, the highest in the Canadian Rockies, straddle the continental divide and extend from (and including) Castle Mountain from the east to the provincial border with British Columbia to the West. It is amongst these mountains typically, where most of the glaciers in the park are located.

The wildlife and vegetation carpeting this foundation is just as rich and varied. The three main ecozones that exist in the park are the montane, subalpine and alpine. The montane zone (smallest of the three) is found at lower elevations in valley bottoms or on dry southwest facing slopes at slightly higher elevations. Because of it’s abundance in vegetation an wildlife, it plays a crucial role in survival of many species. The subalpine zone (largest of the three) exists from valley bottoms to timberline. The alpine zone is found at higher elevations above timberline.

The Trail System

Although BNP covers a vast area, some parts of the park are more heavily used than others, including the backcountry. That is why the park is subdivided internally to better manage areas in terms of visitor use, and wildlife conservation. The trail system in this respect, varies from region to region within the park. For instance; in areas more heavily used, campers are required to stay at designated campgrounds, trails are better maintained, contain bridged river crossings, campgrounds contain; food storage cables, tables, privies, and fire rings (where fires are permitted). In remote regions, random camping is permitted (certain restrictions apply), no facilities are provided, and expert route finding skills are required.

The Season

Hiking and camping can normally be undertaken from mid-May to mid-October. From mid-May to late-June many passes are still snow-bound with most trails being accessible only at lower elevations. Water levels are also at their highest due to spring run-off. Beware of ticks in dry slopes where ungulates congregate. Trails generally tend to be muddier at this time with spring melt, and June being the month to receive the greatest volume of precipitation. Towards the middle of July passes should be open. Watch out for berry patches during August, particularly buffalo berry which is a major food source for bears. Extreme caution should be used when traveling through these areas. From September to mid-October although dryer, temperatures are lower with greater chances of snowfall occurring, particularly at higher elevation. Regardless of what time of year, prepare for all-season travel. You may just wake up to find yourself under a carpet of snow in mid-August!

Safety

Your safety is your personal responsibility. Caution and self-reliance are essential, along with a knowledge of natural hazards, experience in avoiding them and successfully dealing with them when they happen. Pick trips that reflect your level of ability, working towards more challenging expeditions gradually.

Although no one can completely know what to expect in the backcountry, following is a list of circumstances or hazards one should prepare for. It is meant as a guideline and further research into them and backcountry travel is strongly advised.

Preparation from Home

1) Research - Knowing what to expect while traveling in the backcountry will help you deal with situations calmly and intelligently. Choose several trails or routes in case you need to change your plans because of adverse trail conditions or closures. There are several guides specific to hiking in Banff National Park that are excellent resources for planning your trip.

2) Permits - You are required to have a Personal Use Permit, Wilderness Pass and any other permits required BEFORE you travel into the backcountry. The funds collected from the Wilderness Pass and other permits are crucial to the continued maintenance and provision of services associated with them.

3) Backcountry Regulations & Minimum Impact Camping - Regulations applying to backcountry use are designed to protect the park visitor as well as the park. Onus is placed upon the visitor to be familiar with these regulations.

4) Reservations - Although few in numbers, some backcountry campgrounds as well as the Egypt and Bryant Huts, operate on a quota system to help reduce the human impact on an area. Check to make sure if your route contains one so as to make appropriate arrangements and avoid disappointment.

5) Topographic Maps & Compass - Learn how to use these before arriving. Trail conditions can vary greatly from one area of the park to another. In more remote areas of the park trails are much less defined demanding expert route finding skills. Adverse weather conditions can also alter the landscape unexpectedly, requiring you to find your own way to safety, regardless of where you are in the backcountry. Purchase maps now from the Friends of Banff to give yourself plenty of time to plan your route.

6) Equipment - Having proper equipment is essential for comfort and safety. Be diligent with research for this list. If you don’t have all the gear or don’t want to bring all of it out, rentals are available in town for a number of items. Contact the Tourism Bureau for rental details.

7) Getting to Trailheads - Although the town of Banff is abundant with services, do not rely on having easy access to trailheads. Many visitors to the Information Centers have to delay departure because they have no readily available and/or affordable access to trailheads. Inquire with visitor center staff as well as researching through guide books to help you make arrangements for this, and/or to work in extra costs.

8) Groceries - There are several large grocery shops in Banff to purchase supplies, a smaller shop in the town of Canmore (30 kms east of Banff) also sells bulk dry-goods.

9) Physical & Mental Conditioning - Get into shape, and build your endurance. If you’ve never carried a heavy pack before, you may want to look at short trips to build up experience and strength. Differences in elevation and climate can alter your performance, you may wish to take a day or two to acclimatize before heading out on the trail.

Once You Arrive

Upon arrival you will need to purchase your permits, adjust to elevation changes, pick-up any supplies, go over your plan, and update yourself on the latest conditions for backcountry travel.

1) Visitor Center - There are two in Banff National Park, one in the townsite of Banff and the other in the village of Lake Louise. Check to find out hours of operation and exact location.

2) Weather Forecast - In the mountainous region of Banff National Park, weather changes quickly and is difficult to predict. Snow and freezing temperatures occur even in midsummer, particularly at higher elevations. Heavy rainfalls may make river crossings difficult etc. The forecast may severely alter your plans, make sure you get the latest update.

3) Trail Conditions - This factor will also influence your decision on whether to forge ahead with your current itinerary.

4) Warnings & Closures - Some trails are closed due to wildlife conservation, animal activity, or natural hazards like fire. Some trails may not be closed but have warnings placed upon them for similar reasons that require extra caution when traveling on them. Where Warnings are in effect, we strongly recommend choosing an alternate route.

5) Safety Registrations - If you do not have anyone to check-in with in the immediate area, you may want to make use of this service. The registration is voluntary and is available at no extra charge. What is required: Route plan and itinerary of campsites (and potential campsites), alternative routes, color & style of tent and packs, color/make & license plate number of vehicle at trailhead (if using one), departure & return dates, contact person(s) in case of emergency