This summer, Banff National Park is piloting a new e-bike rental program aimed at reducing vehicle congestion and promoting eco-friendly tourism. The initiative, launched in partnership with Parks Canada and local outfitters, allows visitors to explore the park’s scenic trails and townsite using electric bicycles for short-term rentals.
With more than 4 million annual visitors, Banff has long struggled with traffic jams and parking shortages, especially during peak season. Officials hope that e-bikes will ease the pressure while offering a quieter, cleaner alternative to gas-powered vehicles.
The program includes 150 e-bikes stationed at various locations throughout the park, including downtown Banff, Lake Minnewanka, and the Tunnel Mountain trailhead. Users can rent the bikes via a mobile app, which also provides suggested routes and safety tips.
“We want to make sustainable transportation more accessible and enjoyable,” said Sarah Klein, mobility coordinator for Parks Canada. “E-bikes give people the freedom to explore without adding to emissions or gridlock.”
Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Tourists have praised the bikes as easy to use, especially on uphill paths or longer scenic loops like the Legacy Trail. “It’s a game-changer,” said visitor Matt Russo from Ontario. “We saw more and drove less.”
To ensure safety, riders are required to wear helmets and follow established speed limits. The bikes are limited to 25 km/h and include GPS trackers to monitor usage and ensure they remain within designated zones.
The program has also drawn interest from local businesses. Several cafes and shops now offer discounts to customers who arrive by e-bike, further incentivizing low-impact travel around town.
Parks Canada has partnered with a Calgary-based company, LeafCycle, to manage logistics and maintenance. LeafCycle staff handle daily redistribution, charging, and repairs to keep the fleet operational throughout the season.
The pilot will run until mid-October, after which Parks Canada will analyze usage data, environmental impact, and visitor feedback. If successful, the program could be expanded to other national parks such as Jasper and Pacific Rim.
Environmental groups have welcomed the initiative. “This is a practical way to reduce the park’s carbon footprint while enhancing visitor experience,” said Melanie Chow of the Canadian Outdoor Alliance. “It shows that sustainability and recreation can go hand-in-hand.”
There are still some challenges, including trail etiquette and limited availability during peak times. Officials say they are monitoring trail congestion and considering adding more stations next year.
Residents of Banff have also expressed cautious optimism. While some worry about increased trail usage, others appreciate the reduced car traffic in town. “It’s quieter, cleaner, and frankly, more fun,” said local artist Chelsea Kim.
With the Rockies as a backdrop and pedal power at the forefront, Banff’s e-bike experiment may offer a new blueprint for sustainable tourism in Canada’s most visited natural spaces.