From June 20 to September 2, 2025, entry to Parks Canada sites with the ‘Canada Strong Pass’—including our beloved Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay—will be completely free. Free admission for all visitors to national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada and a 25% discount on camping fees. And if you already bought a 2025 Discovery Pass? You’re in luck: Parks Canada is tacking on an extra three months, extending your access into 2026.

This initiative is part of the new Canada Strong Pass, which the government is promoting as a way for Canadians to “make Canada their travel destination this summer.” And as someone who’s passionate about people discovering what makes this country so special, I do support the idea of encouraging domestic travel. There’s real value in helping Canadians explore the landscapes that shape us.

But for those of us living in the Bow Valley, the story is more layered.

When “Free” Comes at a Cost

This policy doesn’t just apply to Canadians—it’s open to all visitors, including international tourists. So while the messaging feels proudly homegrown, the reality is that Canadian taxpayers will be footing the bill for a summer of globally free access. Parks don’t run on goodwill alone. Trail upkeep, wildlife management, sanitation, shuttle systems, search and rescue—they’re all paid for, in part, by park entry fees.

And this year, those revenue streams are stunted.

Add to that the ongoing recovery efforts in Jasper, where last year’s wildfire left a trail of devastation through both ecosystems and park infrastructure. The cost of rebuilding trails, signage, safety measures, and tourist amenities is substantial—and it’s happening within the same federal Parks Canada budget. So while we’re offering free access this summer, it’s worth asking: are we truly funding both visitation and restoration responsibly—or just stretching an already strained system thinner?

The Local Lens

Here in the Bow Valley, we see the real impact of “free access” firsthand:

• Popular trailheads overflowing by 9 a.m.

• More garbage and human-wildlife interactions

• Increased wear on fragile landscapes

• Pressure on infrastructure that isn’t scaling with the surge

If you’re someone dreaming of living here full-time, or spending more time in the mountains as part of a hybrid or remote work lifestyle, it’s important to experience the valley during all seasons—including the high-traffic summer stretch. Because while the scenery doesn’t change, the pace and pressure certainly do.

Still, a Silver Lining

There’s still good news in all this. Locals with annual passes aren’t left behind—they’re being given a 3-month extension. That means your fall hikes, larch season, and early winter walks are now covered into shoulder season.

And if you’re someone considering a move to Canmore or the surrounding area, this could be your opportunity to “try before you buy.” Come up midweek. Hit the trails early. Explore the lifestyle you want to build here—while also asking yourself what kind of community you want to be part of.

Final Thought

I’m all for helping people fall in love with this country’s wild spaces. But let’s not lose sight of what it takes to protect them. Rebuilding Jasper, maintaining Banff, and preserving the experience for both residents and visitors requires more than good intentions—it requires planning, funding, and a willingness to talk honestly about limits.

This summer, enjoy the access. But also remember: if we want the privilege of these parks long-term, we need to treat them like the precious, finite spaces they are—not just free weekend getaways. Whether you're here for a weekend or a lifetime, mountain life is as much about responsibility as it is about beauty.