🚌 Calgary-Banff Transit Axed

Good morning, Bow Valley!

So here’s a fun one to start the day. We came across a video of a couple guys hiking Ha Ling in cowboy boots and hats. A Canmore local filmed them with a “no microspikes needed, eh” followed by a solid “yee-haw.” It’s a good laugh. That said, some of our team hiked Ha Ling yesterday morning and can confirm microspikes are very much needed right now. Conditions are also changing fast, with about 30 cm of snow expected across the Bow Valley by tomorrow night.

— Fortune Whelan, Ben S., Madalyn Beach

CALGARY-BANFF TRANSIT CONNECTOR CANCELLED FOR 2026

What’s Happening? The Calgary-Banff On-It transit route won’t run in 2026 after failing to attract a private operator, despite serving over 25,000 riders last year and offering one of the region’s most affordable car-free options.

A Popular Service, Pulled Back. In 2025, the route logged 25,125 one-way trips, connecting Calgary to Canmore and Banff on weekends and holidays for just $12.50. It was designed as a low-cost alternative to driving into one of Canada’s busiest park regions.

Why It Was Canceled. The issue came down to the bid process. Martin Bean, chief executive officer of Roam Transit, told Bow Valley Insider that no companies stepped forward to operate the route.

“There were no bids on the request for proposal,” he said.

The service ran on a hybrid model: public funding plus a private operator. Southland Transportation had operated the route since at least 2018, but when its contract expired, it chose not to re-bid, and no other operators submitted proposals.

Bean pointed to the seasonal structure as a possible factor:  “The Calgary to Bow Valley service only operated on weekends and summer is an extremely busy time for bus operators.”

How It Was Funded. The service wasn’t fully self-sustaining. In 2025, it relied on a mix of fares and public contributions, including about $154,000 from Parks Canada, $63,000 from the Town of Banff, and $17,500 from the Town of Canmore.

What Riders Lose. There’s now no direct public transit link between Calgary and the Bow Valley. Roam Transit does not run to Calgary, leaving private shuttles, carpools, or personal vehicles as the main alternatives.

Bean said there are still options, pointing to a growing number of private services:

 “This will allow for visitors and residents to still choose to travel without the use of private vehicles.”

What Happens Next? Municipalities and Parks Canada say they’ll monitor traffic levels and transit demand this summer to determine whether a future version of the service returns.

Read our full interview with the CEO of Roam Transit to understand what happened behind the scenes.

CHIROPRACTIC FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT THE DATA

If you prefer measurements over mystery, Precision Spinal is one of the few clinics built around objective testing instead of “how does that feel now.” 

Their approach starts with laser-aligned X-rays, posture analysis, and computerized nerve and muscle scans that map exactly where the problem is and how severe it is.

Before any treatment happens, you see the numbers. You see the photos. You see the misalignment pattern in the upper neck and how it affects posture, muscle tension, and the rest of the spine. It is chiropractic that starts with evidence, not intuition.

If you like health care that is objective, trackable, and grounded in real data, this is your clinic.

Bow Valley Insider readers get a complimentary 30-minute in-person consultation with Dr. Chris Long to review your symptoms and concerns. Fill out this quick form, and they’ll be in touch.

_{*Presented by Precision Spinal.}

THE DIGEST

• 💵 $70K Fine in Banff Worker Scheme. A years-long investigation into illegal employment in Banff has led to a $70,000 fine and probation for an Ontario-based recruiter. Authorities say roughly 90 foreign nationals, primarily from Mexico, were placed in Banff and Jasper hotels without proper authorization between 2022 and 2024. The case exposed what officials called a coordinated operation, not a one-off. It also marks a repeat offence, with the same individual previously convicted. Federal agencies say the case highlights the ongoing challenge of policing Canada’s immigration system. Stay tuned for our follow-up piece, which will dive deeper into this story. 

• 🏞️ Parks Canada Turns to Influencers to Manage Banff Crowds. Parks Canada is leaning into influencer marketing, but with a twist. Instead of driving more visitors, they’re trying to shape how people behave once they arrive. At a recent Travel Alberta event in Canmore, park staff worked with 13 creators to push messages like wildlife safety and carrying bear spray. The move comes as Banff hit 4.5 million visitors last year. Our social team also wanted us to note we didn’t make the influencer list… despite putting out daily videos that reach 4M+ views a month. We’ll keep grinding and hope for the invite next year.

• 🚗 Banff Pushes for Park-Wide Transit Plan. Following up on today’s top story about losing the Calgary to Banff connector, Banff officials are now pushing for a bigger-picture fix. The Town is urging Parks Canada to fast-track a park-wide transportation strategy as visitor numbers and traffic keep climbing. After a chaotic skijoring weekend in January exposed how quickly congestion can spiral, the concern is this could become a regular summer scene. A draft plan is coming, but not until late 2026. 

• 🚧 Key Kananaskis Trails Close for Spring Wildlife Season. Stoney Trail, which starts near the Troll Falls parking lot by Nakiska and runs along the power line, will be shut down from today to June 15. It’s a low-key trail on its own, but a major gateway to routes like Mount Lorette, Mary Barclay’s, and Jewell Pass. The closure is part of seasonal wildlife protection. Also worth noting: Mt. Allan and Centennial Ridge have already been closed since April 1 for bighorn sheep lambing season. See the list of annual K-country closures.

Dear Fellow Local Business Owner,

From one local biz to another: you’ve got a lot of ways to market yourself. But before you spend another dollar, ask this: “How do I know if it’s actually working?” If they can’t answer that, maybe it’s not where your money belongs. Truthfully, we know Bow Valley Insider isn’t the right fit for everyone. And that’s okay. We’re honest about it. We care more about results than selling ad space. If it is a fit, we’ll show you exactly how we can help your business grow. If it’s not, we’ll tell you that too.

➡️ Reach out and let’s see if working together makes sense.

GONDOLA PLAN ABOVE CANMORE SPARKS BIGHORN SHEEP CONCERNS

What’s Happening? The proposed gondola above Canmore is back in focus as the province asks a key early question: Should Bow Valley Wildland Provincial Park land be opened up to potential resort development under the All-Season Resorts Act? Conservationists say that step alone could have consequences for local bighorn sheep.

Wildlife Concerns Front and Centre. The Wild Sheep Foundation of Alberta says the project can’t move forward without impacts. Their key argument: it’s not just about physical space, it’s about behaviour.

 “Functional connectivity depends not just on physical access, but on whether animals are willing to use the space,” the group said.

They warn that noise, movement, and increased human presence could push sheep out of critical alpine habitat, especially during sensitive periods like winter and lambing season. Even small disruptions, they say, can lead to long-term habitat avoidance.

What’s Being Proposed? The gondola, led by Stone Creek Resorts, would run up Lady Macdonald with a base area, day lodge, and viewing platforms. The company estimates it could generate more than $40M annually in tourism revenue for federal and provincial governments.

In previous comments to Bow Valley Insider, Stone Creek emphasized that the project remains in the land designation phase and has not yet been approved, noting that any development would still require environmental assessment, indigenous consultation, and further regulatory approvals.

A Different Take from Industry. Adam Waterous, whose company owns Norquay, told Bow Valley Insider that the Silvertip proposal differs fundamentally from his own gondola plans. He said Norquay’s project, which is not yet approved, is designed as aerial transit to replace an existing access road and reduce vehicle traffic through a wildlife corridor, while the Silvertip proposal is a sightseeing attraction that would bring visitors into largely undisturbed terrain.

Read our full interview with the Wild Sheep Foundation of Alberta and find the link to the province’s public engagement survey, which closes on May 14.

THINGS TO DO

Wednesday

• Our Local Theatre Production Takes the Stage Tonight. If you’re looking for something different tonight, Pine Tree Players is putting on a pay-what-you-can preview of The Importance of Being Earnest tonight at the Canmore Miners’ Union Hall. It’s a fast-paced take on the classic comedy, packed with mistaken identities, sharp dialogue, and a few absurd twists along the way. Doors open at 7, show starts at 7:30. Tonight’s performance is over 90% sold, so if you’re reading this, get your tickets now.*

Thursday

• New Exhibit Launches Exploring Bow Valley Landscapes. Wildlife Corridor by April Neuhaus opens and runs through May 18. The exhibit looks at how human activity shapes the landscape, from ski resort fencing to trail systems, and how those boundaries influence wildlife and perception of the land. Many of the works are created in collaboration with the Bow River itself, with water levels and flow shaping the final pieces. An opening reception runs tonight to meet the artist. 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM. artsPlace, Canmore. Free*

• How Food Shapes Our Environmental Footprint. Looking for a thoughtful way to mark Earth Month? This talk explores how everyday food choices connect to climate and sustainability. The session looks at the environmental impact of food systems and the benefits of plant-based eating. Food from Banff’s Nourish Bistro will be available. 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM. Banff Public Library. Free to attend.

• Community Book Swap. Got a stack of books you’re ready to pass along? This swap night is a chance to trade them for something new to read. Bring gently used books and receive one swap ticket per book to exchange for another. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Canmore Brewing Company. Free to attend.*

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

• 🎤 The Beatles, Reimagined on Canmore’s Main Street. If you grew up on vinyl, this one is for you. Here Comes The Sun: A Deconstruct of The Beatles runs April 16 to May 31 at Carter-Ryan Theatre, breaking apart the Fab Four’s catalogue and rebuilding it in bold, unexpected ways. Think familiar melodies, new harmonies, and fresh meaning stitched into songs you thought you knew by heart. It is reflective, inventive, and surprisingly moving. Perfect for a date night or a night out with friends who still know every lyric. Get tickets here. Use code BOWVALLEYINSIDER for 15% off.*

• 🦜 Lost Banff Cockatiel Safely Recovered. We shared this one last week, and there’s now a happy update. A lost cockatiel spotted in Banff has been safely captured. Parks Canada is currently caring for the bird while its health is assessed. Officials say they won’t provide further updates, as it’s now a private matter between Parks Canada and the owner. Shoutout to the community members who helped track it down.

• 🧠 Concussion Recovery Talk Comes to Canmore. A free, one-hour session at Elevation Place on April 23 is tackling concussion recovery from both the physical and mental side. Hosted by Banff Sport Medicine Foundation, the talk features a physio and neuropsychologist breaking down what actually helps: early management, gradual return to activity, and practical strategies for sleep, stress, and recovery. It’s geared toward anyone dealing with a concussion or supporting someone who is. It’s free, but you’ll need to RSVP.*

• 🥞 Bow Valley Pancake Breakfast & Volunteer Fair. A free community breakfast is kicking off National Volunteer Week with pancakes, music, and a chance to connect with local organizations. Hosted by artsPlace and community partners, the morning event brings together volunteers and groups looking for helping hands across the Bow Valley. The event runs Sunday, April 19, from 10 AM to 12 PM at the Canmore Civic Centre.*

• 🚧 Moose Street Closed for Road Investigation. A section of Moose Street in Banff is temporarily closed as crews investigate a possible issue beneath the road. The closure runs between Otter Street and Muskrat Street. The road will stay closed to vehicles until crews dig in and determine what repairs are needed. Here’s the closed segment.

CIVIC NEWS

• AltaLink Wildfire Prevention Plan Under Review. A proposal to reduce wildfire risk along the transmission line between Banff and Lake Louise is now open for public feedback. AltaLink plans to remove or trim trees along sections of the 551L transmission line and install heavier “tree wire” to prevent contact with power lines. The environmental assessment is open for public review until April 30. If approved,  work could begin in 2026.

LIVE MUSIC

• Wednesday, April 15th, 2026, 10:00 PM: Michael Charles. Location: Rose and Crown, Banff. No Cover

• Thursday, April 16th 2026, 6:00 PM: Steph O'Dette. Location: The Bison, Banff. No Cover.

• Thursday, April 16th 2026, 7:30 PM: Dave & Jud Gunning. Location: artsPlace, Canmore. $17.50 - $35.

SPORTS

• Bow Valley Players Forced to Leave for Elite Hockey. Local teams are winning banners, but many top players still have to leave the Bow Valley to keep developing. Without AA or AAA teams in Canmore or Banff, athletes often head to Cochrane and beyond for higher-level competition. Local leaders say it comes down to numbers and draw zones, not talent. The result is a familiar trade-off: strong local programs, but limited pathways to reach the next level. 

That’s all, folks!

We’ll see you back here on, Friday, same time, same place! 

Heads Up: We sometimes feature paid promotion from local businesses and organizations we trust. When you see a little asterisk (*), that means it’s a sponsored post. We only work with partners we think our readers will actually care about.