Driving

Statistically, driving is the most dangerous activity in the park

Jasper National Park is the second busiest national park in the country. Motorists have a special responsibility to travel with care, respect and to obey all traffic laws. It’s important to pack your patience as you may encounter lineups at the park gates, overflowing parking lots at popular day-use areas like beaches, lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails, and of course a bustling downtown.

Safety is everyone's responsibility. Drive defensively to help keep yourself and others safe.

• Follow posted speed limits: 90 km/hr max (56 mph) on major routes and 60 km/hr max (37 mph) on secondary roads.
• Keep extra distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
• Look far ahead down the road.
• Plan for possible hazards.
• Watch for cyclists and wildlife on the road.
• Drive to road conditions; slow down when needed.
• Give yourself extra time to get to where you are going: this is not the place for being in a hurry.
• Recent wildfires have impacted the park in numerous places. Be alert for fallen trees and other unexpected obstacles, especially on secondary roads in fire-affected landscapes.
• Always check highway conditions on 511 Alberta or Drive BC before departure.

Driving in winter conditions takes extra care

• Slow down if the road is snow-covered or if visibility is poor.
• Watch out for black ice, especially on bridges and near water.
• Your vehicle must have snow tires or chains when you are driving on the Icefields Parkway or Marmot Road from November 1 to March 31.
• Equip your car with a shovel, flashlight, blanket, food and extra warm clothing.
• Cell phone reception is unreliable. There’s no cell phone service from Athabasca Falls to Lake Louise in the winter.
• If you are not comfortable driving in winter conditions, do not drive on the Icefields Parkway during the winter season.

A great trip starts with good planning

• For the most up-to-date road and closure information, check 511 Alberta or dial 511 (in Alberta only).
• For the most up-to-date road and closure information on the British Columbia side of the park, check Drive BC or dial 1-800-550-4997. 
• Have a safety kit in your vehicle.