If you are planning a trip to Lake Louise in Banff National Park, there are two realities to consider: parking there is limited and fills up very early, and starting January 1, 2026, parking and other fees will increase due to inflation adjustments.
Why prices are rising
Parks Canada explains that the increase is in accordance with the Service Fees Act: federal agencies must automatically adjust certain fees for inflation (CPI). The Banff National Park page states that:
- Parks Canada has been adjusting fees every two years based on the CPI since 2020;
- the next increase will be 10.7% from January 1, 2026, and will apply to all Parks Canada fees;
- The updated prices will remain in effect until the next scheduled adjustment on January 1, 2028. Separately, the law also includes a provision that the responsible authority may round down the amount after adjustment in accordance with Treasury Board policies, so the final figures may be rounded.
What is the current price of parking at Lake Louise (according to Parks Canada)?
The official Banff National Park fees page lists the following rates for Lake Louise Lakeshore:
- General Parking (per car): $36.75
- Accessible parking (per car): $8.00
And an important clarification: paid parking is in effect during the “shuttle season” (May–October) and is in addition to the pass/ticket to enter the national park.
How much could it cost after +10.7% (approximately)
If we apply +10.7% to the current figures (and keeping in mind possible rounding):
- $36.75 → approximately $40.68
- $8.00 → approximately $8.86
This is an estimate, not a final price: it is best to check the final values on the Parks Canada website closer to 2026.
When exactly is paid parking in effect
For the 2025 season, Parks Canada provides a specific schedule: from 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., May 16 to October 13, 2025 (for all public stalls on Lakeshore). Season dates may change each year, but the principle of “shuttle season = paid parking” remains.
Where does the parking money go?
Parks Canada notes that revenue from Lake Louise Lakeshore parking and shuttles remains in Banff National Park and is used to manage traffic and support transportation solutions for visitors.
Conclusion
The increase in parking fees at Lake Louise from January 1, 2026, is not a “one-time promotion” but part of Parks Canada's official inflation adjustment (10.7%).