Visitors to Banff National Park will need to start paying standard entry fees again on September 8, as the Canada Strong Pass comes to an end on September 7, 2026. The pass, which has provided free park admission and a 25 percent discount on camping since June 19, is wrapping up just after the Labour Day weekend.
Starting September 8, all visitors must purchase either a daily park pass or an annual Discovery Pass to enter Banff. Daily passes cost $12.25 for adults, $10.75 for seniors, and $24.50 for families or groups of up to seven people. Youth 17 and under enter free. Annual Discovery Passes are $83.50 for adults, $71.50 for seniors, and $167.50 for families or groups.
According to Parks Canada, the Canada Strong Pass required no physical or digital pass; benefits were automatically applied when visitors arrived during the promotional period. With the program ending, regular camping fees also resume. Campers at Banff can expect to pay between $22 and $34 per night for unserviced sites, and $40 to $47.25 for sites with electrical hookups.
A fire ban remains in effect for all areas of Banff National Park, including campgrounds and day-use areas, due to elevated fire danger. The ban has been in place since July 30, 2026, and prohibits wood campfires, charcoal or wood barbecues, turkey fryers, and tiki torches. Gas and propane stoves, propane lanterns, and portable propane firepits are still permitted. Violators can face fines up to $25,000.
Parks Canada reminds visitors that park pass revenues stay in the park to support visitor services, trails, public safety, and infrastructure. Anyone planning a trip to Banff after Labour Day should factor the standard admission fees into their budget and check current fire restrictions before arriving.
