Safety measures implemented at Joffre Lakes amid booming popularity

In recent years, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park has become one of the busiest outdoor spots in British Columbia.

Located 35 kilometres east of Pemberton, the park attracted 183,000 visitors in 2018, a 168% increase since 2010.

As a result, BC Parks has decided to implement a number of measures to try and address public safety concerns, improve the visitor experience and recognize Indigenous values.

The Joffre Lakes Park Visitor Use Management Action Plan includes the following actions:

• Increasing park presence with two First Nations stewards working alongside park rangers.
• Expanding the parking lots to increase vehicle capacity from 250 to 450 cars to accommodate approximately 1,350 people per day.
• Offering a shuttle service from Duffey Lake Park parking lot to the Joffre Lakes Park trailhead.
• Implementing a compliance plan and towing vehicles illegally parked on Hwy 99.
• Installing an emergency satellite phone at the Joffre Lakes trailhead as a means of communication for public safety.
  

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George Heyman, B.C.’s minister of environment, says balancing increased visitation with the province’s conservation mandate is a delicate manner.

“Our government is committed to finding solutions for the exceptional growth at Joffre Lakes Park that protect the environment and improve public safety,” he said.

“The Joffre Lakes action plan ensures the natural and Indigenous cultural values of the park are protected, while continuing to provide recreation opportunities for visitors of all abilities.”

The parking lot expansion will occur in phases and the shuttle bus, which will cost $10 for a round trip, will operate on Saturdays, Sundays and holiday Mondays throughout the summer.