Permit Required to Paddle in Banff, Kootenay and Yoho this Summer
Everyone will need a new permit for each visit to a lake for paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking or playing in the water on a beach
In some of Canada’s National Parks this summer, there will be a restriction on the use of non-motorized watercraft, fishing equipment and aquatic recreational equipment to prevent the spread of invasive mussels and whirling disease.
You’ll need a permit if you want to do any of the following in Banff, Yoho or Kootenay this summer: canoe, kayak, paddleboard, fish (second permit to regular one), play in the water with sand toys or life jackets.
The permit to go in or on the water is free, but you’ll need a new one every time you head out or access a different body of water. You also have to let your gear dry 48 hours between use on different lakes.
“Visitors and residents will be required to state that they have cleaned and drained their watercraft or gear of mud and water, and have allowed the item to dry for a minimum of 48 hours to be able to enter any river, lake or stream in Banff, Yoho, or Kootenay National Park.”
And if you’re coming to Alberta or B.C. from out of province, then you’ll have to dry your equipment for 30 days before entering the water.
Self-registration permits and questionnaires will be available at visitor centres, campgrounds and boat launching spots. They will also be available at the park gates where you pick up day passes to enter the parks. They should be available by June 17th.
For more information, visit here.
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