Yes, you need one. Here's the deal.
Do I need a pass? Yes. Banff is a national park and requires a valid Parks Canada pass.
Daily pass: $12.25 CAD/adult, free for youth (17 and under)
Discovery Pass: $75.25 CAD/adult - unlimited entry to ALL Parks Canada sites for a year
Where to buy: Park gates, visitor centers, or online at pc.gc.ca
Which one makes sense for you
Best for: Day trips, short visits (1-3 days)
Best for: Stays of 7+ days, visiting multiple parks (Jasper, Yoho, etc.)
💡 The math: Pays for itself in just 7 days!
Multiple options, all easy
Mark your calendar
July 1st - Free admission to all national parks
Third Saturday in July - Celebrate Canada's parks
June 19 - Sept 7, 2026: FREE admission through the Canada Strong Pass program!
Free admission days can be extremely busy. Expect full parking lots by 8am at popular spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. The shuttle system still operates and is highly recommended.
The fine print
Yes. Even if you're just passing through on Highway 1, you need a valid pass. The highway runs through the park.
Hang it from your rearview mirror or place it on your dashboard, visible from outside. Rangers do check.
Daily passes are park-specific. The Discovery Pass works at ALL Parks Canada locations across the country.
You still need a pass. The shuttle doesn't include park admission. Buy online before you arrive.
Up to $25,000 under the Canada National Parks Act. Not worth the risk - just buy the pass!
Now figure out when to go and how to get there