Waterton Lakes National Park, one of five mountain national parks that have new water activity zones. (Image Credit: ID 5801995 © Fallsview | Dreamstime.com)

By David Opinko

New water activity zones enacted for Alberta/B.C. mountain national parks

Mar 11, 2026 | 9:28 AM

Make sure to check out the newly updated regulations for five mountain national parks before hitting the water.

Parks Canada has announced new water activity zones in Waterton, Banff, and Jasper National Parks in Alberta, as well as Kootenay and Yoho National Parks in B.C.

The rules are meant to mitigate the spread of aquatic invasive species.

“They threaten healthy ecosystems, clean water, and activities people enjoy, such as paddling, fishing, and boating,” reads a notice from Parks Canada.

Lakes and rivers in the mountain national parks are grouped into three zones, with each having different regulations and permitting requirements for water activities.

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Water Recreation Zones

• These zones include many popular lakes and rivers.
• Water activities can continue.
• Existing AIS prevention regulations and permits still apply.

Water Preservation Zones

• These zones include sensitive ecosystems that need extra protection.
• Only activities with a very low risk of introducing AIS are allowed.

Special Tactics Zones

• These zones are complex waterbodies and need site-specific tactics to meet their unique needs.
• For example, special regulations apply at Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park, Waterton Lakes Chain, Waterton River, and Cameron Lake in Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Visit each park’s website for details.

“This ensures a coordinated, regionally consistent approach, strengthening long-term protection for lakes and rivers,” says Parks Canada. “It is founded on an evidence-based, adaptive management approach providing ecosystem protections and supporting positive visitor experiences. Working together across parks ensures Parks Canada can adapt and respond effectively as risks change over time. 

Before visiting a lake or river, Parks Canada says to check which zone it is in, which activities are allowed, and whether you need a permit.

Waterton Lakes National Park

Banff National Park

Jasper National Park

Yoho National Park

Kootenay National Park