March 21 - Extreme avalanche danger across the Canadian Rockies
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March 21, 2026. Parks Canada is urging visitors to stay out of all avalanche terrain as an exceptional cycle plays out across the Canadian Rockies. Avalanche Canada has rated danger at Extreme across Banff, Kootenay, and Yoho National Parks, the highest level on the five-point scale and one that’s reserved for conditions where large and very large avalanches are certain to release on their own.
Parks Canada visitor safety specialists have observed multiple natural avalanches over the past 24 hours, with several running to valley bottom. The Emerald Lake slide path was among those confirmed reaching historic run-out zones. “We expect large avalanches to run to historic run-outs over the next several days,” Parks Canada stated. They’re calling this the largest avalanche cycle of the 2025-26 season.
Highway closures
Several major corridors are closed or have been closed through the weekend:
- Highway 93 South - closed from the Trans-Canada in Banff to Settler’s Road in Kootenay National Park (roughly 100 km), with a planned reopening Saturday around noon
- Highway 93 North (Icefields Parkway) - closed from Lake Louise to Jasper, reopening expected Saturday afternoon
- Yoho Valley Road and Field Back Road - also closed
Helicopter-based avalanche control has been grounded by severe weather and low visibility, so Parks Canada’s ability to actively manage the hazard is limited right now.
If you’re heading out
Don’t. The recommendation from both Parks Canada and Avalanche Canada is to stay out of avalanche terrain entirely until the danger rating comes down. That means all backcountry skiing, ski touring, and snowshoeing at and above treeline, but also popular valley-bottom trails that sit under known slide paths.
If you’re already in the area, check highway status on 511 Alberta before you drive anywhere. Keep your gas tank full and have emergency supplies in the car.
Current forecasts are at avalanche.ca/banffyohokootenay.