Peyto Lake & Bow Summit Closure

The Peyto Lake and Bow Summit area will now remain open to visitors until mid-August 2019.

At that time, the entire area – including parking lots, restrooms, trails and viewpoints – will close for improvements for the remainder of the year. Start dates remain dependent on weather and contractor availability. We will continue to provide updates as timelines are confirmed. Thank you for your patience while we improve the quality and reliability of national park experiences and safeguard these special places for the future.

Why is this happening?
Parks Canada continues to work closely with contractors to bring much-needed improvements to this beloved place. Peyto Lake has been a favourite for motorists since the Icefields Parkway opened in 1941. Today it is an internationally recognizable location and draws more than 300,000 visitors every year. This work will improve the visitor experience and protect this special place for future generations.

What you need to know
Peyto Lake will remain open until mid-August. Start dates remain dependent on weather and contractor availability. Updates will be provided as timelines are confirmed.

As early as mid-August, there will be no access to Peyto Lake or Bow Summit from any roadside locations on the Icefields Parkway. Please do not enter the area during the closure. This is prohibited by law and may result in fines. Safety is our first priority.

Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead. Due to high demand, parking availability is limited at all day use areas. Ample parking for coaches and large RVs (>7m or 23’) is only available at the Crossing Resort and the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.

Alternative Views & Stunning Experiences

• Herbert Lake Day Use Area - 10 minutes from Lake Louise
• Bow Lake Day Use Area - paved walking trail to picnic area
• Mistaya Canyon Trail - 75 km from Lake Louise
• Howse Pass Day Use Areas - short walk to picnic area with stunning views, 80 km from Lake Louise
• Parker Ridge Trail - popular hike to amazing views - trail and restrooms, 120 km from Lake Louise
• Athabasca Fall Day Use Area - 30 km south of Jasper, hike to picnic area, restrooms available

Improvements are made possible by an unprecedented $3 billion investment over 5 years in national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas across Canada. This is the largest federal infrastructure plan in Parks Canada’s history.