The road from Banff to Johnston Canyon was closed for a pilot program.

Banff National Park

Parks Canada has launched a three-year cycling pilot program along the Bow Valley Parkway’s eastern section. This decision is informed by feedback from recent public engagement on cycling and considers operational requirements, and park management priorities. Each spring and fall from May 1 to June 25 and from September 1 to October 2, vehicle access will be restricted along the eastern 17 km of the parkway to allow for an enhanced cycling experience.

Access to Johnston Canyon’s day-use area and campground, will be maintained via Castle Junction and the TransCanada Highway during the pilot program. 

Parks Canada will monitor results of this pilot to guide future planning and decisions.

Source: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/info/gestion-management/cyclisme-cycling

We did this ride on September 23rd, 2023 and it did not disappoint. At almost 50km return, there were lots of people with beautiful fall scenery. At one point, we stopped with everyone as a grizzly bear was spotted running across the path to the waters edge. We didn’t see the bear (thankfully as I would have pooped my pants). Me, forgetting to bring the bear spray, was a real concern, however, there were no further issues and we enjoyed the ride. As the closure is coming to an end, we hope to do the 100km from Canmore, AB along the Legacy Trail to Banff, to Johnston Canyon and back, next year.

We met Clancy the Crow, he was curious about us (I’m sure more my company than the food) and was very interested in what I had to say.

https://www.mapmyride.com/workout/7537758430