Wildlife safety
Jasper National Park
Limited services are available in Jasper National Park - Know before you go
A lot has changed in the park because of the Jasper Wildfire Complex. However, wildlife is still active, and it is important to know how to avoid a negative encounter and manage wildlife attractants.
Animals need to find their own natural food sources, not yours. By leaving scented food items or garbage unattended, you attract wildlife to the townsite. This is dangerous for you and for the animals.
Waste disposal information
We ask you to dispose of regular household waste how you would normally: in the garbage bins near your residence.
It is critical that you do not leave waste outside the bear-safe garbage bins. Do not leave any garbage or attractants outside.
Additional bins at the Jasper Transfer Station for large items that do not fit in regular residential bins. You will have to take these large items to the Jasper Transfer Station yourself.
Disposal of fridge, freezer and other appliances (white goods)
If you still need an appliance picked up, please contact your insurance company to arrange for collection.
Notice of restriction: Wildlife viewing practices in Jasper National Park
Roadside wildlife viewing is designated as restricted from January 1 until December 31
Help Parks Canada maintain healthy animal populations
Stay in your vehicle
- Slow down, and always obey speed limits
- Use your hazard lights to alert others
- Pull over only where it is safe to do so
- Do not stop in driving lanes
- Observe, take photographs, and move on
- Move on immediately if a traffic jam develops
Human food and garbage kill wildlife
- Do not feed wildlife
- Do not litter
- Put garbage in its proper place
- Do not burn unwanted food or garbage
- Never leave food unattended
- Properly store all food and scented items
Give wildlife space
- Do not approach wildlife
- All wild animals are unpredictable
- All wildlife is potentially dangerous
- Animals are wild even if they appear tame
- Keep pets on leash
- Stay 30m (3 bus lengths) away from elk, deer, and moose
- Stay 100m (10 bus lengths) away from bears and other carnivores
You are responsible for your own safety
When you are on the trails:
- Travel in groups
- Make noise
- Tune in to your surroundings. Remove your headset
- If you encounter wildlife, back away. Return the way you came
- Carry bear spray. Know how to use it
- Report all aggressive wildlife encounters to Parks Canada Dispatch: 780-852-6155
- Know the Parks Canada regulations
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