Temporary Highway 1 Closure Near Field for Avalanche Control: What You Need to Know

If you're planning a drive through Yoho National Park this Friday, don't be surprised if the Trans-Canada Highway suddenly hits the brakes. Parks Canada has announced a temporary closure of Highway 1 just east of Field, B.C., to allow for avalanche control work following a significant winter storm in the area.

The closure is scheduled to begin at approximately 11 a.m. on Friday, December 18, and will last for around 1.5 hours. This is part of a proactive safety response to the current high avalanche danger across Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay national parks.

Why the Closure?

After heavy snow and increasing avalanche activity, public safety specialists will be using explosives to reduce the risk of natural slides that could impact the highway. The control work will involve both permanent installations and helicopter deployments across several key slopes, including Mount Bosworth, Cathedral Mountain, Mount Field, and Mount Stephen.

In other words, the mountains are getting a controlled wake-up call before they decide to roll over on their own terms. These operations are a regular but vital part of winter safety in the Rockies, keeping major corridors like Highway 1 open and safe for the public over the long haul.

What This Means for Travellers

For anyone driving through the area - whether heading to Golden, Lake Louise, or just soaking in the scenic route - it's important to plan ahead. Expect full closures of Highway 1 in both directions during the control work. And no, there's no sneaking around it - the entire area will be closed to park users for the day. That includes all climbing and skiing activity within the affected zones.

Travel in avalanche terrain is strongly discouraged. With natural avalanches considered likely and human-triggered ones very likely, these closures are being enforced to keep both visitors and highway crews safe.

Safety Comes First

These closures are not suggestions - they are legal restrictions under the Canada National Parks Act. Violators can be charged, and considering the risk level, the best approach is to respect the closures and adjust your plans accordingly.

If you're heading west on Friday, consider leaving a bit earlier or building in extra time to accommodate the closure. Grab an extra coffee in Lake Louise or pull over for a snowy roadside photo op - just be sure you're well outside any restricted zones. It's a great time to take it slow, enjoy the mountain views, and let the experts handle the heavy lifting.

For live updates on road closures and conditions, check with DriveBC or Parks Canada before hitting the road. When the Rockies roar, sometimes it's best to let the professionals do their thing - even if it means a short wait before you're back on your way through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Canada.