70 km/h @ Lake Louise

To help protect bears, a 70 km/h speed zone is in effect on the Trans-Canada Highway adjacent to Lake Louise. The reduced speed zone is nine kilometre long and is in effect annually from May 1 - September 30.

Wildlife High Collision Area Next 9 km © Parks Canada / B. Bertch

The RCMP actively enforce the zone.

The reduced speed zone will help increase the survival of black and grizzly bears trying to cross this busy unfenced section of highway. Research indicates both species cross frequently in the Lake Louise area.

It's vital to the future of the region's black and grizzly bear population that individual bears can safely travel to habitats and other bear populations that lie on each side of the Trans-Canada Highway. Currently about 14,000 vehicles travel the Trans-Canada Highway on a typical summer day in the Lake Louise area.

By driving 70km/h in this zone, responsible drivers show their respect for bears trying to survive here. The speed zone adds about two minutes to travel time, but could add years to a bear's life. We urge motorists to obey all signs and reduced park speed limits. Please use extra caution at dawn and dusk.