Car-Free Cycling Returns to Bow Valley Parkway. Here’s How to Ride It.

A section of the Bow Valley Parkway will close to vehicle traffic starting April 30 as part of its annual spring restriction, temporarily converting the route into a car-free corridor for cyclists and pedestrians.

The seasonal closure applies to a 17-kilometre eastern stretch of the parkway between the Trans-Canada Highway and Johnston Canyon and runs until June 25. The restriction is part of Parks Canada’s ongoing program to reduce wildlife disturbance during spring, while also allowing for cycling access, and is set to continue annually through 2030.

While temporary closures were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the program was formalized as a cycling pilot in 2022 and has continued since.

What the closure means for cyclists

During the restriction period, the eastern segment of the parkway becomes a continuous, vehicle-free corridor between the Fireside day-use area and Johnston Canyon during daytime hours (8 AM to 8 PM; Google map link here).

Outside of emergency and authorized traffic, the road is open to cycling and walking, while overnight restrictions prohibit all travel to reduce disturbance to wildlife.

Watch video: Where to start your ride and turnaround options

For those travelling from Calgary or Canmore, the most direct option is to take the Banff exit from Highway 1 and follow signs into the townsite. Parking is available near the Banff train station, where riders can begin their trip.

From there, cyclists can follow Vermilion Lakes Road out of town, which connects to the Bow Valley Parkway via the Legacy Trail. This provides a continuous route from Banff but adds several kilometres to the total distance.

Cyclists looking to shorten the ride can instead access the eastern end of the closure near the Trans-Canada Highway interchange west of Banff. On the western side, parking is available near trailheads such as Rockbound Lake, accessible via Castle Junction.

The closed section is approximately 17 kilometres one way, making it a 34-kilometre return trip if completed as an out-and-back ride. The route includes rolling terrain and some steeper sections, particularly closer to Johnston Canyon.

A full ride to Johnston Canyon and back is the most common option. Shorter rides can be done along the eastern portion of the route, while some cyclists continue west toward Castle Junction before turning around. Others stage vehicles at both ends of the closed section to complete a one-way ride.

How to plan your trip

Preparation can affect the experience. Standard road and hybrid bikes are commonly used on the paved surface, while electric bicycles are permitted. Bike rentals are available in Banff and Lake Louise, though availability may be limited during peak periods.

Services along the parkway are limited, particularly within the closed section. Water, food and repair support are not consistently available. Facilities are concentrated at Johnston Canyon and at locations accessible from the Trans-Canada Highway, such as Castle Junction.

Starting earlier in the day can help avoid heavier cycling traffic, which tends to increase later in the morning and into the afternoon.

What to know about wildlife and safety

Wildlife is common along the Bow Valley Parkway corridor, which supports species such as bears, elk, deer and wolves. Encounters can occur, particularly in spring when animals are more active at lower elevations.

Parks Canada has issued a bear warning for the Vermilion Lakes Road area (as of April 30, 2026), a common access route to the parkway from Banff. The area remains open, but users are advised to stay alert.

Users are advised to take precautions, including carrying bear spray and remaining aware of their surroundings.