British Columbia is introducing a day-use pass system for three of its most popular provincial parks starting in May 2026. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Environment and Parks on Monday, May 11, 2026.
Parks Affected
The three parks requiring passes are Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Mount Robson Provincial Park, and Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park. These locations have experienced significant increases in visitation over recent years, leading to concerns about environmental degradation and visitor safety.
Joffre Lakes Provincial Park
Located near Pemberton, Joffre Lakes is known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain scenery. The park has seen a surge in visitors, with parking lots often overflowing and trails becoming congested. The day-use pass system is intended to limit the number of people entering the park each day.
Mount Robson Provincial Park
Home to the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson attracts hikers and climbers from around the world. The park's Berg Lake Trail is a popular multi-day hike that will also be subject to the new pass requirements.
Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park
Often called the 'Matterhorn of the Rockies,' Mount Assiniboine offers backcountry camping and hiking. The park's pristine environment has been under pressure from increased use, prompting the need for better crowd management.
How the Pass System Works
Visitors will need to reserve a free day-use pass online through the BC Parks website. Passes will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and each vehicle entering the park must have a valid pass. The system will operate from May 1 to October 31, 2026, covering the peak visitation season.
Exemptions
Some visitors may be exempt from the pass requirement, including those with camping reservations, backcountry permits, or annual passes. The province is also considering exemptions for local residents and Indigenous communities.
Reasons for the Change
Environment Minister George Heyman stated that the pass system is necessary to protect the parks' natural features and ensure a quality experience for visitors. 'We want to strike a balance between allowing people to enjoy these incredible places and preserving them for future generations,' Heyman said.
The move follows similar initiatives in other Canadian parks, such as Garibaldi Provincial Park and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, which have successfully used day-use passes to manage crowds.
Public Reaction
Reaction to the announcement has been mixed. Some outdoor enthusiasts welcome the change, hoping it will reduce overcrowding and environmental damage. Others express concerns about accessibility and the potential for passes to sell out quickly, limiting spontaneous trips.
BC Parks will monitor the system's effectiveness and may expand it to other parks in the future. The province encourages visitors to plan ahead and check the BC Parks website for updates.
