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Parks Canada’s reported Tunnel Mountain restriction ran from January 24 through March 31, 2026, in an area east of Banff—not across every trail or facility. The listed exceptions included several popular routes. Because that announced end date has passed, check the latest Parks Canada Banff bulletin and map before setting out; the available reporting does not establish whether the area reopened or a new restriction replaced it.
What was restricted, and when?
CityNews Calgary reported on January 28, 2026, that Parks Canada had restricted access to an area around Tunnel Mountain beginning January 24, with the restriction expected to end March 31, 2026. The area lies east of the Banff townsite, around Tunnel Mountain and toward the Hoodoo Trailhead. Those are broad location cues, not a substitute for the official map: use Parks Canada’s mapped boundary to determine whether a particular route or site is inside the restricted area. CityNews Calgary’s report includes the reported dates and trail details.
The March 31 end date is now past. The report does not establish the restriction’s present status or whether Parks Canada issued a later notice. Check Parks Canada’s Banff bulletins and current map before visiting, and follow any newer notice over older coverage.
Was all of Tunnel Mountain shut down?
No. The reported notice restricted an area, but CityNews listed these routes and facilities as remaining open at the time:
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That list describes the access reported for the 2026 notice, not a guarantee of current access. Closures can change, and the exact boundary matters; confirm each route against Parks Canada’s latest bulletin and map before travelling.
Why did Parks Canada restrict the area?
Parks Canada described the area as winter hunting habitat for cougars, wolves and coyotes, as well as winter range for ungulates. The stated aims were to provide secure habitat and reduce the potential for human-wildlife conflict. CityNews quoted Parks Canada’s notice: “Giving wildlife the space they need to successfully hunt and consume their kills contributes to healthy carnivore populations and reduces human-wildlife conflict potential.”
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A 2023 Parks Canada Tunnel Mountain bulletin gave a related winter-habitat rationale, but it is historical context—not evidence of the 2026 boundary or today’s access rules. Read the 2023 bulletin.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to stay safer on open trails
Open access does not mean wildlife is absent. Parks Canada’s guidance for Banff trails recommends carrying wildlife spray accessibly and knowing how to use it; spray is not a guarantee of safety and does not permit entry into a restricted area. Its advice includes travelling in groups, staying alert, and making noise. The closure report also advised extra caution at dawn and dusk and keeping dogs leashed. See Parks Canada’s Banff biking safety guidance.
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- Stay together and remain alert, particularly at dawn and dusk.
- Carry wildlife spray where it is readily accessible, and know how to use it.
- Keep dogs leashed.
- If you see or smell a carcass, leave the area; do not approach it.
- Do not approach, entice or feed wildlife.
- If you can safely report a large carnivore sighting, contact Banff Dispatch at 1-403-762-1470.
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