Bulletins

Banff Field Unit

WHAT: Pursuant to Section 7(1) of the National Parks General Regulations, of the Canada National Parks Act, the
following activity is restricted or prohibited by order of the Superintendent:

WHERE: This closure is in effect just east of the Town of Banff and includes the area around Tunnel Mountain and east
of Tunnel Mountain to the Hoodoo Trailhead. However, official trails within the closure will REMAIN OPEN to public use;
these include: Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail, Tunnel Mountain Road, the technical bike trails, Surprise Corner to
Hoodoos and the trail parallel to Tunnel Mountain Road and are indicated in green on the attached map. See attached
map for details.

WHY: The intent of this closure is to provide secure habitat for carnivores hunting in the area during the winter
months, and to increase public safety. Tunnel Mountain and the surrounding areas are important winter hunting habitat
for cougars, wolves and coyotes as well as winter range for ungulates. Giving wildlife the space they need to successfully
hunt and consume their kills contributes to healthy carnivore populations and reduces human-wildlife conflict potential.

When hiking on trails in Banff National Park be prepared to avoid an encounter with a cougar, wolf or other wildlife
by taking these steps:
• Travel in groups and keep everyone together.
• Be especially cautious when travelling during dawn and dusk, when wildlife is most active.
• Travel slowly if you are cycling or jogging, remain alert and do not wear ear buds.
• Make noise to alert wildlife to your presence.
• Carry wildlife (bear) spray in an easily accessible location and know how to use it.
• Keep your dog on a leash at all times (it’s the law) and walk your dog during daylight hours if possible.
• Leave the area if you see or smell a dead animal.
• Never approach, entice or feed wildlife.
If You See a Cougar, Wolf or Coyote:
• Do not approach the animal.
• Face the animal, and retreat slowly – do NOT run or play dead.
• Try to appear bigger by holding your arms or an object above your head.
• Immediately pick up small children.
• Be aggressive. Shout, wave a stick or throw rocks to deter an attack.

Report any carnivore sightings immediately to Banff National Park Dispatch at 403-762-1470.

PENALTY: Violators may be charged under the Canada National Parks Act: maximum penalty $25 000.

Start date: 14 January-2026
End date: 31 March-2026