Visiting Banff and Lake Louise
Will forest fire smoke affect my trip?
- During the summer, forest fires naturally occur all over the world. Smoke can blow thousands of kilometres and still be visible. Planning ahead is the best way to be prepared for these weather events.
- When there is smoke in the air, children, the elderly, and those with lung disease may want to avoid extended exposure during times of poor air quality. Check ahead to monitor the air quality in Banff National Park.
Are there any trail or activity closures?
- Visit the Parks Canada website to learn about closures resulting from any current nearby fires and/or smoke.
- Find Banff National Park updates and Kootenay National Park updates.
Are there any road closures?
- Check ahead on the latest road conditions for Alberta at: https://511.alberta.ca and for BC at: http://www.drivebc.ca
What are some great activities to do on a smokey day?
- There are a number of amazing activities that are not affected by smoke in the area. Check out our blog - 7 Great Indoor Adventures in Banff and Lake Louise.
Camping
Will my campground be open?
- Individuals with backcountry reservations in an area closure should contact 403-762-1556 (leave a message if needed) or visit a Parks Canada Visitor Centre.
Is there a fire ban?
- For the latest information about fire bans and restrictions visit Alberta Parks and Parks Canada websites.
Air Quality
How is the air quality?
- On a smokey day, the air quality is dependant on a number of factors, including wind direction, precipitation, etc. Typically air quality will be best in the morning while daytime temperatures are still cool.
- Children, the elderly, and those with lung disease may want to avoid extended exposure during times of poor air quality.
- The latest statement from Environment Canada can be found here.
Can you see anything?
- When there is smoke in the air, visibility conditions are dependant on a number of factors, including wind direction, precipitation, etc.
- On a smokey day, typically visibility will be best early in the morning while daytime temperatures are still cool. For up to date visibility information, visit http://firesmoke.ca/.
- Use our webcams to view real time conditions in Banff and Lake Louise.
General Information
Where can I get more information?
- Visit the Alberta Wildfire website for real-time fire maps and updates.
- For trip planning, help, or advice, please visit one of our Visitor Information Centres in Banff or Lake Louise. You can also reach them online through livechat and info@banfflakelouise.com or by phone at 403.762.8421.
- For visitors travelling to/from British Columbia, plan ahead for your trip using these resources: https://www.hellobc.com/plan-your-trip/need-to-know