Canada’s national parks have long stood as symbols of shared heritage and natural wonder. Yet a recent decision by Parks Canada to restrict the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park to cyclists only has reignited concerns over public access, inclusivity, and the role of citizen engagement in shaping park policy. This development highlights the tension between conservation goals and democratic participation-and underscores the power of individual voices in safeguarding Canada’s wilderness for all.
A Cycling-Only Restriction on a Storied Parkway
The Bow Valley Parkway has served generations of Canadians as one of Banff’s most scenic corridors, winding through forests, alongside rivers, and past wildlife habitat. Parks Canada’s new policy limits its use to cyclists, effectively barring families with young children, elderly visitors, and others who prefer walking, driving, or horseback riding from enjoying the route. Critics argue that this move:
- Overrides the park’s mandate to balance preservation with public enjoyment.
- Fails to address actual environmental threats, given that Banff National Park is already 96 percent wilderness and its grizzly bear population, a key ecosystem indicator, has flourished for over two decades.
- Sets a precedent for incremental access restrictions on other park roads under the guise of sustainability.
Your Voice in Action
Engaging with Parks Canada and government representatives is straightforward but impactful. Whether you wish to express support for multi-modal access, propose alternative conservation measures, or share firsthand experiences, officials pay heed when they receive thoughtful, informed feedback.
Key Decision-Makers to Contact
- Terry Duguid, Minister of Environment
Email: terry.duguid@parl.gc.ca - Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Culture
Email: Steven.Guilbeault@parl.gc.ca - Ron Hallman, CEO of Parks Canada
Email: ron.hallman@pc.gc.ca
Phone: 819-420-5146 - Sal Rasheed, Superintendent of Banff National Park
Email: banff.superintendent@pc.gc.ca
Phone: 403-762-1500
When writing or calling, be respectful, concise, and solution-oriented. Highlight that Parks Canada’s mandate includes both environmental stewardship and ensuring broad public access. Offer suggestions-such as timed vehicle permits, expanded shuttle services, or designated walking lanes, that maintain conservation goals without excluding non-cyclists.
Embracing Democratic Participation
In a democracy, silence equates to consent. Each email sent and each phone call made adds to a chorus demanding transparency and balance in park management. By engaging directly with officials, Canadians reaffirm their role as stewards of public land and shape policies that reflect collective values.
The Bow Valley Parkway decision is more than a cycling policy; it’s a test of how Canada’s parks will evolve in the 21st century. Every voice raised in defense of inclusive access strengthens the connection between citizens and the wild spaces they cherish. Now is the moment to act-write, call, and make your perspectives count. The future of Parks Canada’s direction depends on it.
