Pre-Trip Checklist: Bookings, Passes & Family Prep

Step 1 — Secure Parks Canada Shuttle Reservations (Do this on April 15, 2026). Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles. The only ways in are the Parks Canada shuttle, a licensed commercial operator, or a Moraine Lake Lodge guest reservation. Reservations open April 15 at 8 am MDT. If you miss the launch-day drop, set an alarm for 8 am MDT exactly two days before your intended visit for the release of remaining seats. Shuttle fares are $12.75 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $4 for youth (17 and under), plus a reservation fee[reference:0][reference:1]. Check in at the Lake Louise Park and Ride kiosk during your one-hour departure window.

Step 2 — Choose Roam Transit vs. Parks Canada Shuttle for the Banff–Lake Louise Leg. Roam Transit Route 8X runs between Banff and Lake Louise and requires a reservation. A Reservable Super Pass includes both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake access. If you are staying in Banff town and do not want to move multiple vehicles, Roam is the simpler family logistics choice.

Step 3 — Buy Your Parks Canada Discovery Pass. A Family/Group Discovery Pass is $167.50 CAD and covers up to seven people in one vehicle for all Parks Canada sites[reference:2]. Youth 17 and under are free[reference:3]. With two vehicles, you will likely need two passes if both enter the parks separately. Purchase at the park gate or online in advance.

Step 4 — Book the Maligne Lake Boat Cruise. Pre-book for the 10:30 departure. The cruise to Spirit Island is on an enclosed, heated boat, making it suitable for individuals. Prices are approximately Adult $85 · Child $45[reference:4]. The Maligne complex picnic area afterward has high chairs and space for children to run.

Step 5 — Book the Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer + Skywalk. The Ice Explorer takes you onto the Athabasca Glacier, and the Skywalk is a glass-floored observation platform. Operating season is May 1 – October 12, 2026. This is the longest single stop on the Icefields Parkway day. Prices are approximately Adult $125 · Child $65[reference:5].

Step 6 — Pre-book the Banff Gondola (Optional). The gondola rises 698 m to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. 2026 prices: Adult $68 · Child $38; a family of four is approximately $195 CAD[reference:6]. Book online in advance to save up to 10% and skip the ticket queue. Bring real layers — the summit is significantly colder and windier than the townsite.

Step 7 — Prepare the Vehicle Kit for Your Family. Pack a bear spray canister in each vehicle, know how to use it, and store it safely away from children. Bring snacks and water for the Icefields Parkway day: food options between Lake Louise and Jasper are limited, and a picnic lunch at Bow Lake is a good plan.

Step 8 — Brief the Family on Wildlife Rules. Roadside viewing is restricted; stay in the vehicle, use hazard lights to alert others, and do not stop in driving lanes. On trails: stay 30 m from elk, deer, and moose and 100 m from bears[reference:7]. Travel in groups, make noise, remove headphones, and back away if you encounter wildlife. Report aggressive encounters to Parks Canada Dispatch at 780-852-6155.