Bulletins

Effective date:

November 15, 2022 to May 15, 2023

What:

Pursuant to subsection 7(1) of the National Parks General Regulations, the following activity is restricted or prohibited in Jasper National Park:

Backcountry travel by any custodial group* in avalanche terrain described by the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale (ATES) as class 2 and 3. See the attached table.

* A “custodial group” means a group affiliated with an institution, where at least one person is below the age of majority and that minor is not in the company of his/her parent or legal guardian. Institutions include but are not limited to schools, Scouts/Guides, churches, clubs, cadets, and community youth programs.

Note:

1. Subject to the following restrictions, authorization for a custodial group to travel in ATES class 2 avalanche terrain may be granted by the Superintendent:


• 1.1 The custodial group must be led by a mountain, alpine or ski guide certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides or International Federation of Mountain Guide Associations.


• 1.2 Maximum group size is nine (9) persons plus certified guide(s).


• 1.3 Authorization for travel by a custodial group in class 2 terrain will only apply when the certified guide has rated the slope specific "Danger Rating" in that area to be 'Low' or 'Moderate'.


2. Backcountry travel by a custodial group in areas of the Park designated as ATES class 3 avalanche terrain, is prohibited.
3. Travel in ATES class 1 avalanche terrain is not restricted.

Penalty:

Violators may be charged under the Canada National Parks Act: maximum penalty $25 000.

Further information on hiring guides, obtaining permits, and a complete listing of rated trips can be found at Parks Canada Information Centers or at:  parksmountainsafety.ca