bc parks day-use pass guide

BC Parks uses free day-use passes to manage crowding at a few busy parks. Passes are booked online, open two days before your visit at 7 am PT, and cannot be booked by phone. Rules below are as published by BC Parks for 2026 and checked October 24, 2026.

parks that need a pass

• Joffre Lakes: a trail pass per person, May 11 to October 25, 2026. Children 12 and under with a pass-holding guardian do not need one. The park closes for periods during the season. Joffre Lakes (Upper Lake)
• Garibaldi: a vehicle pass at Diamond Head and Rubble Creek on Fridays to Mondays and holidays, June 12 to October 12, 2026. Cheakamus Lake needs a vehicle pass daily June 13 to September 7, then Fridays to Mondays and holidays to October 12, with AM and PM slots. Garibaldi Lake, Panorama Ridge, Elfin Lakes, Cheakamus Lake
• Golden Ears: a vehicle pass on Fridays to Mondays and holidays, May 15 to September 7, 2026, for lots past the Spirea trailhead. Not required after 3:30 pm or if you arrive by TransLink. Lower Falls (Golden Ears)
• Mount Seymour: a winter vehicle pass for lots P1 and Lower P5 on peak dates. Dog Mountain, Mount Seymour (Pump Peak to Summit)

tips

• Cell service is limited at these parks. Screenshot or print your pass.
• Passes cannot be transferred. Cancel if your plans change.
• Overnight campers with a reservation do not need a day pass.

Source: BC Parks day-use passes. Dates change each year.