Scott Hayes | [email protected]
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A rainstorm caused a series of mudslides along Highway 93N (Icefields Parkway) in Banff National Park early on Aug. 22.
"Creeks from Mt. Wilson had deposited silty debris on the highway in four locations between Saskatchewan River Crossing and Rampart Creek Campground impacting approximately 150 metres of roadway total," read a statement from Parks Canada.
There were no injuries or property damage. The highway was closed between Saskatchewan River Crossing and Parker Ridge starting around 5:30 a.m. that day. The cleanup was swift and the highway was fully reopened right after noon.
The brief event served as a strong reminder for all travellers in the national parks, especially those who take the Icefields Parkway. Safety is a shared responsibility, the statement said.
"In April in Jasper, there were quite a few spots with overland flooding over the Icefields Parkway that resulted in intermittent small closures," said Janelle Verbruggen, Parks Canada communications officer with the Jasper Field Unit.
"It's quite frequent, especially after a big amount of rain or snow and then it melts rapidly. In those instances, we do want folks to remember that the Icefields Parkway . . . it's a backcountry experience."
Visitors should be prepared for any contingency and ensure that they have an emergency kit in their vehicles as well. The most important tip, Verbruggen said, is to make a trip plan and let somebody know about them.
Part of that plan is to check the weather conditions and the road conditions on Alberta 511.
"The weather in the mountains can change very quickly. While it's plus-30 C today – as we all experienced in 'June-uary' – we could still have a snowstorm in the next two weeks. It's never too early to be prepared," Verbruggen said.
While you're on the highway, extra caution is advised.
"Wildlife can bolt onto the road. Keeping that distance between you and the vehicle in front of you really can make a difference."
There is no cell coverage on the Icefields Parkway and there are no service stations along the way until you get to Saskatchewan River Crossing.
As we leave summer and enter the fall, it is also a good opportunity to have your vehicle serviced and get those winter tires on. They are mandatory for travellers' vehicles between Nov. 1 and April 1.
"There are some great tips on AMA's 'prepare your vehicle for winter' webpage. Something as simple as bringing extra windshield wiper fluid is going to make your trip that much safer," Verbruggen said.
People should report all safety concerns to either Jasper Dispatch at 780-852-6155 or Banff Dispatch at 403-762-1470.
