One of the most popular roadways in Banff National Park is set to be under construction as early as April, which has prompted Parks Canada officials to warn summer visitors to plan ahead and prepare for delays. 

According to Parks Canada, Lake Louise Drive hosts about one million vehicles per year. The road connects the community of Lake Louise to upper Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, which are two of the most visited destinations in Banff National Park.

"Over the last ten years vehicle traffic on Lake Louise Drive has risen by roughly 70 per cent."

The construction, part of the Lake Louise Area Strategy, 'has identified this road as a major opportunity to improve ecological integrity and visitor experience in the Lake Louise area.'

Some of the proposed construction for this year includes asphalt resurfacing and road repairs, and a roundabout proposed for the intersection at Sentinel Road, Fairview Drive, and Lake Louise Drive. Other elements include better traffic flow that connects St. Piran, Chateau Lake Louise, and Upper Lake Louise parking, which is meant to ensure pedestrian safety, improvements to the Fairview day-use area, as well as updated signage, road paint, lights, and arrows to improve pedestrian crossings and sharing of the road.

Due to the construction, visitors are asked to book a shuttle if they are planning to see Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.

"Due to high demand, visiting Lake Louise and Moraine Lake requires planning. Parking lots fill up before sunrise and remain full until sunset. Taking transit or booking a Parks Canada shuttle is easy, stress-free and the only way to ensure you see these iconic lakes. Booking your shuttle in advance is required," Parks Canada stated.

According to the Parks Canada website, reservations for the suttle are required for all shuttles departing the Park and Ride to either lake.

"Tickets are for a one-hour window; you may show up anytime during that hour. Once at the lakes, you may stay as long as you choose and connect between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake on a first come first serve basis, via the Lake Connector shuttle (available to Parks Canada Shuttle reservation holders only). Your ticket includes a return shuttle service from either lake back to the Park and Ride when you are ready."

As of 2023, Moraine Lake Road has been closed to personal vehicles year-round. Parks Canada shuttles, Roam Public Transit, and commercial buses are permitted from June to mid-October. Exceptions are possible for visitors with valid parking placards, for people with disabilities and guests of Moraine Lake Lodge.

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