This Canada Day, visitors will enjoy free entry to all of Canada's National Parks, National Historic Sites and National Marine Conservation Areas on July 1.
Jasper National Park, a UNESCO Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, is home to 53 species of mammals and countless other creatures that rely on a variety of habitats, which we share with them.
While Parks Canada works to safeguard the natural and cultural heritage represented by this striking mountain landscape and ensure it remains intact for future generations, we cannot do it alone. We need the help of stewards like you.
As you explore Jasper this summer, please help Parks Canada ensure your safety, the survival of the animals, the health of their environment, and the enjoyment of fellow visitors by following these regulations:
Bike on designated trails
Jasper National Park is known for its extensive trail network, providing opportunities for over two million annual visitors and close to 5,000 local residents to connect with nature. Over the past 30 years, informal trails have been built and wildlife routes have been adopted for recreation, and this has had a significant impact on wildlife movement, sensitive habitats and vegetation in the valley.
With the exception of 7.5 kms set aside for hikers only, all 210 kms of the signed official trail network is designated for bike use. Keeping bikes (and horses) to a designated network decreases unofficial trail development, concentrates use in areas with minimal impact on wildlife, decreases the potential for visitors to get lost by venturing onto unsigned trails and keeps our network attractive.
Outside the valley, the backcountry provides an additional 140 kms of trails accessible to mountain bikes. In total, mountain bikes are allowed on 350 kms of signed, multi-use trails in Jasper National Park—more than in any other national park in Canada.
Do not feed wildlife
The conservation and safety of wildlife is a priority for Parks Canada, and we consider the feeding of wildlife a very serious issue.
Feeding wildlife does more harm than good; for the animals and for people. Animals may readily consume human food even though it provides little nutrition and may disrupt their digestive system. When wildlife become reliant on unnatural food sources, they may stop feeding on the natural foods they need for proper nutrition. More importantly, when wild animals are fed, they become used to the presence of people.
Research has shown that bears that lose their natural wariness of humans are more likely to die on roads and railways. Animals like elk, deer, and coyotes that become habituated to people can become aggressive and can harm both humans and pets.
Help maintain healthy populations of animals in Jasper National Park by:
- Not approaching wildlife—stay 30 m (three bus lengths) away from elk and 100 m (10 bus lengths) away from bears;
- Remaining in your vehicle when viewing wildlife from the road (use a telephoto lens to get that 'perfect' picture) and quickly continuing on your way;
- Keeping your campsite clean by keeping all attractants in your vehicle—coolers are not bear proof and even dishwater and dog food can attract an animal;
- Staying on designated trails—unofficial trails are often used by wildlife; and
- Reporting illegal feeding at 1-877-852-3100.
Use designated fire pits
Illegal fires are often started in or near highly populated areas in Jasper National Park.
Half of wildfires in Jasper National Park are started by people, and the most common cause is illegal campfires. Wildfires put residents, visitors, firefighters and facilities at unnecessary risk and are very costly to extinguish.
For instance, the cost of putting out even small fires is often more than $12,000, due to the need for helicopter assistance, and can total up to $50,000 per day. Dry summer conditions mean a higher fire hazard and often higher fire danger.
Always use designated fire pits; it is unlawful to have random fires.
Fish with a permit
If you are planning on fishing in Jasper National Park, obtain a National Park Fishing Permit. Provincial fishing permits are not valid in Jasper National Park. It is your responsibility to know where you are, as some areas have different open seasons with special conditions under the fishing regulations. Some areas are permanently closed. Obtain a current copy of the fishing regulations at the Parks Canada Information Centre or online at www.pc.gc.ca.
As our nation celebrates its 148th birthday this Canada Day, we invite you to celebrate and help protect your natural and cultural heritage. Contact Parks Canada to report any violation or situation you feel is not quite right 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 780-852-6155 or toll free at 1-877-852-3100. You can also email [email protected].
For more information on Jasper National Park regulations, visit www.pc.gc.ca/jasper and click on “National Park Regulations”.
Parks Canada
Special to the Fitzhugh
