Parks Canada is closing roads in Jasper National Park this weekend to discourage illegal camping.
Highway 93a (from the junction with Highway 93 to Athabasca Falls) and Snaring Road (just beyond the Snaring bridge) will be temporarily closed to vehicles from Friday, May 15 through to Tuesday, May 19.
"This closure is in place over Victoria Day long weekend to streamline operations and as a prevention for illegal camping," said Parks spokesman Steve Young in a press release.
"Camping - including sleeping in a vehicle - in roadside pullouts, trailheads, and day-use areas is illegal."
These roads will remain accessible for cycling and hiking for local residents, and Maligne Road will be open from today (Friday, May 15) to allow access to walking and cycling.
Starting June 1, visitors will be permitted to access trails, day use areas, and green spaces in Jasper, but all camping facilities remain closed until at least June 21, 2020.
This weekend, services and facilities like campgrounds, information centres, entry gates, playgrounds and picnic shelters remain closed and all events, groups and interpretive activities are still suspended.
"There will be plenty of long weekends in the mountains to come," said Young.
"By staying home this weekend you are investing in quality experiences in Jasper in the future.
"We thank visitors for their patience while we prepare to return to normal visitor operations.
"The community looks forward to welcoming everyone back in the weeks ahead; just not right now."
