The August long weekend has proved to be one of the busiest for Waterton Lakes National Park.
The increased traffic is now forcing Parks Canada officials to manage visitors.
“The park is very busy. Parking is close to or at maximum capacity and extremely limited,” Parks Canada spokesperson Marina Best said Sunday. “We are experiencing traffic congestion. Traffic is moving slowly, there are delays on park roads especially in the community and near major day use areas.”
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Best goes on to ask travellers to be patient and follow instructions from staff.
The Cameron Lake and Red Rock Canyon day use area parking lots are full.
Earlier in the day, Parks Canada staff were controlling traffic and limiting access to the park at the junction of Highways 5 and 6 located near the entrance gate.
Officials said it was “to ensure the safety of visitors, wildlife and staff.”
Electronic signs were also installed near the highways on Sunday to advise travellers to the area.
“We ask motorists to drive carefully and follow all instructions. Be prepared to show accommodation reservations,” Best said. “We understand this may be disappointing for visitors currently travelling to Waterton Lakes National Park and we appreciate their understanding.”
The traffic control was lifted at about 2:30 p.m., but officials continue to urge travellers to proceed with caution.
Continued traffic updates will also be issued via Parks Canada social media or Alberta 511.
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