Banff National Park Warns of Rising Rivers, Flooded Trails and Avalanche Hazards

Heavy runoff from a deep mountain snowpack, combined with warm temperatures and recent rainfall, continues to push rivers and creeks across Banff, Yoho and Kootenay national parks well above their normal levels, forcing trail closures and prompting Parks Canada to warn visitors that conditions remain hazardous.

While water levels were expected to peak Monday evening, officials said Tuesday that many waterways remain high and conditions can change quickly throughout the region.

A High Streamflow Advisory remains in effect for the Bow River between Lake Louise and Banff, with Alberta's River Forecast Centre warning water levels could rise by as much as 40 centimetres, potentially affecting low-lying areas and riverside pathways.

A separate flood watch remains in place for the Pipestone River near Lake Louise.

Parks Canada says several popular recreation areas have already been affected.

The day-use area surrounding the Lake Louise Visitor Centre and trails along the Pipestone River have experienced flooding, while portions of the Bow River Loop trail have also been impacted. Officials say additional closures could occur if water levels remain elevated.

One of the newest closures affects the popular Fenland area in Banff.

The Fenland day-use area, Fenland Loop trail and connecting trails were closed Monday because of flooding and will remain closed until further notice. The easy 1.9-kilometre interpretive trail, located just northwest of downtown Banff, is one of the park's most popular short walks.

Visitors urged to stay away from rivers

Parks Canada is urging visitors to keep well back from rivers and streams, warning that fast-moving water can quickly erode riverbanks and pathways without warning.

Officials also advise against swimming, paddling or wading in fast-flowing water and remind parents to closely supervise children near rivers and creeks.

They also note that creek crossings that appear manageable earlier in the day can become dangerous within hours as daytime snowmelt increases or additional rain falls.

Visitors are encouraged to leave the area immediately if water levels suddenly rise or unexpectedly drop, as either can indicate rapidly changing conditions upstream.

High country still seeing avalanche danger

While valley bottoms are dealing with flooding, Parks Canada says winter conditions continue to linger in the alpine.

Despite the calendar turning to summer, many hiking trails at treeline and above remain snow-covered, and avalanche hazards persist across several popular backcountry routes.

Parks Canada trail reports, as of June 30, advise against hiking:

• Harvey Pass

• Bourgeau Lake

• Rockbound Lake

• Healy Pass

Trail reports cite lingering avalanche terrain, snow-covered trails, post-holing hazards and avalanche debris, while Bourgeau Lake also has numerous fallen trees obstructing sections of the trail.

Parks Canada says recent heat and rainfall have increased avalanche danger at higher elevations by destabilizing the remaining snowpack.

Visitors are encouraged to check trail conditions before heading into the backcountry and to obey all closure signs and warnings posted at trailheads.

Officials say anyone planning to visit the mountain parks over the coming days should expect changing conditions, monitor forecasts closely and be prepared to adjust their plans as weather and water levels continue to evolve.