Johnson Canyon Day Use Area and Bow Valley Parkway Visitor Use (2017, 2022-24).

In this study we examined the visitor experience at the Johnston Canyon Day use area and evaluated visitor attitudes towards the closure of the 1A Highway to motorized vehicles. Key findings included:

• Active Transportation: Throughout the study period, the percentage of respondents who chose to use active transportation, such as e-bikes and non-electric bikes, to arrive at Johnston Canyon Day Use Area increased. In 2023 and 2024, the majority of respondents reported utilizing active transportation to reach the day use area.

• Positive Impact: The Parkway closure was overall very positively received and encouraged cycling within Banff National Park, demonstrating its positive influence on sustainable transportation within the area while enhancing eco-tourism experiences.

• Visitor Experience: The closure of the Bow Valley Parkway did not negatively impact motorists' experiences, regardless of their awareness of the closure. However, it did significantly improve cyclists’ experiences.

• Trends Over Time: Over the three-year pilot, the closure's importance in trip planning increased, while willingness to cycle if the closure was not in effect decreased.

The study resulted in major changes to parking infrastructure and access, increase bile facilities.