Bulletins
Jasper National Park
Restricted Activity: Backcountry travel in avalanche terrain – Custodial groups
Issued: October 31, 2022
Ends: April 30, 2023
Effective date:
November 15 to April 30
Pursuant to subsection 7(1) of the National Parks General Regulations, the following activity is restricted or prohibited in Jasper National Park:
Backcountry travel by any custodial group* in avalanche terrain described by the Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale (ATES) as class 2 and 3, between the dates of November 15 and April 30.
* A “custodial group” means a group affiliated with an institution, where at least one person is below the age of majority and that minor is not in the company of his/her parent or legal guardian. Institutions include but are not limited to schools, Scouts/Guides, churches, clubs, cadets, and community youth programs.
Note:
- Subject to the following restrictions, authorization for a custodial group to travel in ATES class 2 avalanche terrain may be granted by the Superintendent:
- The custodial group must be led by a mountain, alpine or ski guide certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides or International Federation of Mountain Guide Associations.
- Maximum group size is nine (9) persons plus certified guide(s).
- Authorization for travel by a custodial group in class 2 terrain will only apply when the certified guide has rated the slope specific "Danger Rating" in that area to be 'Low' or 'Moderate'.
- Backcountry travel by a custodial group in areas of the Park designated as ATES class 3 avalanche terrain, is prohibited.
- Travel in ATES class 1 avalanche terrain is not restricted.
Class | Description | Terrain criteria |
---|---|---|
1 | Simple | Exposure to low angle or primarily forested terrain. Some forest openings may involve the run out zones of infrequent avalanches. Many options to reduce or eliminate exposure. No glacier travel. |
2 | Challenging | Exposure to well-defined avalanche paths, starting zones or terrain traps; options exist to reduce or eliminate exposure with careful route finding. Glacier travel is straightforward but crevasse hazards may exist. |
3 | Complex | Exposure to multiple overlapping avalanche paths or large expanses of steep, open terrain; multiple avalanche starting zones and terrain traps below; minimal options to reduce exposure. Complicated glacier travel with extensive crevasse bands or icefalls. |
Further information on hiring guides, obtaining permits, and a complete listing of rated trips can be found at Parks Canada Information Centers or at: www.parksmountainsafety.ca
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