Driving in the Canadian Rockies

• Highway 1 (the TransCanada Highway) is the largest paved highway in the world and is the primary east-west road for traveling in the Canadian Rockies. Taking the TransCanada west out of Calgary you will quickly encounter Kananaskis Provincial Park followed by Banff National Park and the towns of Canmore, Banff and Lake Louise. As you continue to move west you enter spectacular Yoho National Park and the towns of Field, Golden, and Revelstoke.
• Hwy 93 is the primary north-south road in the Canadian Rockies. Hwy 93 South starts just east of Lake Louise in Banff National Park and winds its way south through Kootney National Park and the towns of Radium, Invermere, Fairmont, and Kimberley. Cranbrook and Panorama are also accessed from Hwy 93 South. Hwy 93 North (also known as the Icefields Parkway) starts at Lake Louise and is commonly regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world. Hwy 93 North connects Jasper with Lake Louise.
• Distances are measured in kilometres (km). Speeds are cited in km per hour. 1 km is equal to approx. 0.6 miles.
• The speed limits typically range between 80 – 110 km per hour. The maximum speed limit in the National Parks is 90 km per hour.
• Safety-belt use is mandatory in all provinces.
• You must have and carry proof of vehicle insurance, including 3rd party liability, while driving in Alberta and BC.
• You must be 16 or older with a valid driver’s license to operate a vehicle in Alberta or BC.
  

Liquor Laws

• The minimum age to purchase alcohol is 18 in Alberta and 19 in BC.
• Open alcohol is not permitted in the passenger (or driver) compartment of a motorized vehicle. Transport open liquor in the trunk.
• There are liquor stores in Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Field, Golden, Radium, Invermere, Fairmont, Kimberley, Fernie and Cranbrook.
• It is unlawful to drink liquor in an unlicensed public place.
  

Banking and Currency

• The Canadian monetary system is based on dollars and cents, similar to the United States. 100 cents is equal to 1 dollar.
• The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is added to the cost of most goods and services purchased. The most notable exemptions are on essential goods like milk, vegetables, meat, etc. If you are not a Canadian citizen, you can also get a refund on GST paid for short-term accommodation directly from the government.
• There is a Provincial Sales Tax (PST) of 8% in BC. Alberta does not have PST, but does apply a hotel & lodging tax of 5% in addition to the GST. This tax does not apply to private vacation rentals, however.
• Converting foreign currency into Canadian funds can be done at any financial institution and a few of the larger hotels.
• Most businesses accept travelers cheques with valid identification, debit cards, and major credit cards. Make sure to bring your VISA or Mastercard as not all businesses accept American Express.
• The major banks commonly found in the Canadian Rockies include TD Canada Trust, CIBC, Royal Bank, Bank of Montreal, and the ATB (Alberta Treasury Branches). Canmore, Banff, Jasper, Golden, Invermere, Kimberley, Cranbrook and Fernie all have banks with automated tellers.
  

National Park Regulations

• Vehicles stopping in a National Park must pay an entry fee or possess a valid park pass. Passes can be obtained a visitor information centres or at any of the National Park entry gates. A pass (entry fee) can be used at any National Park in Canada. As of October 2003 the cost to enter a National Park was $15Cdn for a single vehicle or $89Cdn for an annual pass.
• Hunting and / or trapping wildlife is illegal.
• Firearms may not be transported through a National Park unless they are dismantled or securely locked.
• Anglers must obtain a National Park fishing permit and be familiar with catch quotas and closures.
• It is illegal to feed or harass wildlife within the park.
• Camp in designated campgrounds only.
• Light fires in metal fire boxes provided and use firewood sparingly.
• Mountain biking is permitted on designated trails only.
• Do not enter closed areas. There is a good reason they are closed.
• Keep to maintained trails when hiking. Do not shortcut switchbacks.
• Keep pets restrained at all times. There are restrictions on taking dogs into the backcountry overnight.
• Observe quiet hours at campgrounds between 10pm and 7am.
  

Safety

If you are not familiar with the Rocky Mountain National parks, it is advisable to educate yourself on the different hazards that can occur. As is the case anywhere, common sense is your best companion. Here are some tips to help you find your way safely:

• Do not approach, entice or feed wildlife.
• Do not park, walk or ski in posted avalanche or closed areas.
• Keep off glacial ice and snow-covered slopes, especially in summer.
• Stay on your side of guardrails at viewpoints, waterfalls and canyons.
• Do not drink surface water in highly visited areas.
• Do not drive on paved shoulders and park only in designated pull-offs. Be on the look out for wildlife and cyclists.
• Altitude increases the effects of sun and wind. Dress appropriately for walks and hikes and remember your sunscreen, sunglasses and sun hat.
• Frost may develop on road surfaces at any time of year, especially in the mountain passes. Be prepared for winter driving conditions between September and June and equip your vehicle appropriately.