Driving

Statistically, driving is the most dangerous activity in the park

Jasper National Park is the second busiest national park in the country. It’s important to pack your patience – 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.

• Obey 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 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.