Parks Canada is advising visitors to Yoho National Park to be prepared for snow, ice and winter hazards despite warmer temperatures in the valley.
In a social media post, the agency said spring freeze-thaw cycles and a deep snowpack create unpredictable and challenging conditions, especially near treeline and in alpine areas.
“Avalanche risk remains,” it said. “Travelling above tree line or in alpine terrain, even on popular trails, exposes visitors to avalanche hazards.”
Parks Canada said these trails should not be attempted in spring conditions without avalanche training and equipment.
“Seeing tracks does not indicate that the route is safe,” it added. “These are summer trails that typically come into condition by mid-June.”
It said morning snow may start out compact but often softens throughout the day, creating hazardous hiking conditions. Hikers may sink to waist depth in some areas.
Parks Canada advised visitors not to rely on crowd-sourced information and to consult the Banff National Park trail report or check with a Parks Canada visitor centre before heading out.
