The free day pass system is returning to these five popular BC parks this summer

In an effort to curb the overuse of some of the most popular BC parks, the organization behind it has brought back the divisive ‘park pass’ system for visitors, with a few changes. Originally announced last year, this system means people have to book their visit in advance. Here’s a quick rundown.

Last year, the pass system kicked off at 6AM each day, so would-be visitors needed to reserve their spot early each morning. This year, things are a little different, with passes getting released at 7AM the day prior. So, you should have a few extra hours of planning available this go around.

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The five parks that will use the pass system this summer are:

• Joffre Lakes
• Mount Robson (Berg Lake Trail)
• Stawamus Chief (Chief Peaks Trail)
• Garibaldi Park (Diamond Head, Rubble Creek and Cheakamus Trails)
• Golden Ears

There will be both vehicle passes and person passes in use this year. The vehicle passes cover everyone arriving at the park in the same vehicle (up to 8 people). Meanwhile, the person passes cover single visitors, and only apply to Joffre Lakes and the Stawamus Chief.

Finally, some passes will be good for the entire day, while others are split between AM/PM visits. Those with an AM pass will need to arrive before 1PM, while PM pass holders need to arrive after. The new system goes live on Sunday, June 22nd, and will officially start on Monday, June 23rd.

For more info, just head to the BC Parks website!