Solo backcountry permits and reservations are mandatory for Banff National Park and help authorities know your route for search-and-rescue. Advance booking is recommended as spots fill up quickly during prime months. Here are the steps to register a solo backcountry route with Parks Canada in Banff:

1. Plan Your Route

• Choose your route, campsites, access points, and travel dates before you begin the registration process.
• Ensure you have the full list of campgrounds and overnight stops for each night.

2. Reserve a Backcountry Permit

• Go to the Parks Canada Reservations website (https://reservation.pc.gc.ca) or call 1-877-737-3783.​
• Create a Parks Canada account in advance and log in before reservation dates open for the season (Banff’s backcountry reservations typically open in January).​
• Select “Backcountry Permit” and enter Banff National Park as your destination.
• Choose your arrival date, party size (“1” for solo), number of tent pads, and access point.
• Build your trip itinerary by adding campgrounds/zones for each night of your journey.
• Fill in required details: emergency contact info, your contact number and address, and your parked vehicle’s licence number (if applicable).

3. Confirm and Pay

• Review all trip details, check the required acknowledgments, and confirm your booking.​
• Reservation fees are non-refundable ($11.50 online, $13.50 by phone), plus nightly backcountry fees.
• Print or save a digital copy of your permit to carry at all times.

4. At the Visitor Centre

• If reserving last-minute or for a remote zone, permits can be bought in person at Banff or Lake Louise visitor centres.
• Campers must present the permit at checks and have a valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass.

5. Safety Measure: Know Emergency Contacts

• Call 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies anywhere in Banff National Park.​
• For non-emergencies or dangerous wildlife encounters, call Banff Dispatch: +1-403-762-1470 (24/7).

Also Read : 7-Day Banff Itinerary for Solo Travellers with day-by-day packing checklist

What safety checks does Parks Canada perform when I register solo

When you register a solo backcountry route with Parks Canada, the following safety checks and steps ensure your protection:

• You must provide your route details, travel dates, campsite selections, emergency contacts, and vehicle information if applicable.​
• Staff confirm your chosen area is open and safe for solo travel; certain trails or zones in Banff restrict solo hikers when bear activity is high—you may be required to join a group on these routes.​
• Your contact information and itinerary are kept on file so search-and-rescue can locate you in case you do not return or check out as planned.​
• Parks Canada staff review your booking for weather, wildlife, or trail hazards and alert you to any closures or advisories, including bear warnings, wildfires, or flooding.​
• You may be asked about experience level and receive a pre-hike safety briefing (in person or by video) on wildlife safety, emergency communication, and park rules.​
• You are required to carry your permit, ID, and park pass at all times, and show them when requested by Parks Canada staff or wardens.​
• Before departure, your emergency plan—including a check-in person outside the park, and instructions for contacting Banff Dispatch in case of incident—should be reviewed with staff if you’re especially remote.​

These measures help ensure that solo travellers are tracked, informed about risks, and prepared with both safety gear and a communications plan for their journey.​