Joffre Lakes Park closed until mid-May for First Nations cultural practices

One of the most beautiful and popular parks in British Columbia is temporarily closed as of Friday

Pipi7íyekw/Joffre Lakes Park, east of Pemberton, is being shut down until at least May 16 for local First Nations to engage in cultural practices.

“This period will provide exclusive space for the Líl̓wat Nation and N’Quatqua to connect with the land,” BC Parks explained on Thursday.

The B.C. government branch adds that people should expect more closures later in the season, but those dates haven’t been released.

“As more people go to the park, there is a need for enhanced visitor-use management, ensuring the park is not degraded by heavy use,” said the Ministry of Environment and Parks in its release.

In addition to the temporary closures, the province is providing daypass dates for the park.

“Beginning Saturday, May 17, adults and youth older than 12 will require a free day-use pass to visit the park,” said the ministry.

“Since 2021, day-use passes have been used at Pipi7íyekw/Joffre Lakes to ensure adequate and safe parking, and provide a more enjoyable, less crowded experience. The passes can be reserved online at 7 a.m., two days before a planned visit.”

Due to the elevation, visitors are also being warned of possible snow in the park or the parking lot. BC Parks adds that dates for backcountry camping at Upper Joffre Lake will be posted soon.

This spring closure isn’t new. There’s an agreement in place between the provincial government and the local First Nations that manage the park. Last year, it closed as of April 30.